Gombe Stream
National Park
The Living Legacy of Jane Goodall
Home to the world's longest continuous study of wild chimpanzees along the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Area
~52 km² (Smallest Park)
Gazetted
1968 (Oldest NP)
Legacy
Chimp Research Since 1960
Access
Only by Boat from Kigoma
Nature in Perfect Harmony
A narrow ribbon of montane forest clinging to steep escarpments as they rush down to the crystal-blue waters of Lake Tanganyika
Forest, Mountain, and Lake
Gombe is a narrow ribbon of montane forest, clinging to steep escarpments and streams (Kakombe, Mitumba) as they rush down to the crystal-blue waters of Lake Tanganyika. It is one of the most biologically intimate landscapes in Africa.
"The distant pant-hoots of chimpanzees echo through the valleys, creating a profound, unforgettable atmosphere."
Defining Features
Lake Tanganyika
Provides a unique marine environment and serves as the park's eastern border
Riparian Forest
Lush vegetation along stream beds, ideal habitat for primates
Kakombe Waterfall
Beautiful, accessible fall fed by one of Gombe's main streams
Steep Escarpments
Rugged terrain leading up to ridge tops (up to 1,623 m)
Primates & Primatology
The birthplace of modern chimpanzee research and a living laboratory of animal behavior
Chimpanzee Trekking & Study
Gombe is home to the world's longest continuous chimpanzee study, initiated by Dr. Jane Goodall in 1960. The park protects around 100 individuals in the famous Kasekela community.
The Goodall Legacy:
- Encounters are emotional and profound, as the chimps are highly habituated
- This is where tool use, hunting, and social hierarchies were first revealed in chimps
- Visitors are limited to 1 hour with the chimps per trek for disease control
Other Primates & Birdlife
Despite its small size, Gombe boasts remarkable diversity. It's a key area for various monkey species and a beautiful spot for tropical birding.
Wildlife Highlights:
- Birds: Around 200 species, including crowned eagle and trumpeter hornbill
- Aquatic: Snorkelers spot colorful endemic cichlids of Lake Tanganyika
- Monkeys: Red colobus (often hunted by chimps), red-tailed, blue monkeys, and olive baboons
- Mammals: Bushbuck, bushpig, and occasionally leopard at higher altitudes
Climate & Seasons
Gombe experiences high humidity year-round. The dry season offers the most comfortable trekking conditions
Dry Season
Months: June – October
Offers easier chimp trekking on drier trails, good visibility, and comfortable day temperatures. Best time for prolonged hiking.
Green Season
Months: November – April
The forest is lush, and this is the peak birding season, with many migrant species present. Expect higher humidity and afternoon showers.
Temperature: 22–32 °C | Rainfall: ~1,500 mm annually
Access & Experiences
Access & Logistics
By Boat Only
Gombe has no road access. Reached solely by boat from Kigoma (1.5–2.5 hrs)
By Air
Flights from Dar or Arusha to Kigoma, then boat transfer
Travel Inside
All movement within the park is done on foot
Core Activities
Chimpanzee Trekking
Main draw with 1–4 hour treks to locate the Kasekela community
Hiking
Explore Kakombe Waterfall trail and Mkenke Valley route
Snorkeling & Swimming
Enjoy crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika
Historical Visits
See the Jane Goodall Research Center near park HQ
Accommodation
Inside Park
TANAPA bandas and rest house near park headquarters
Luxury Option
Gombe Forest Lodge nearby, Sunset Lodge in Kigoma
Connectivity
The park promotes digital silence with no network
Best Pairings
Combine with Mahale Mountains or Katavi
Conservation & Significance
Gombe is the birthplace of modern primatology and a core component of the Greater Mahale Ecosystem. The ongoing research here has redefined science and animal behavior.
The Scientific Breakthrough
"It's where humans first witnessed chimpanzees making tools (stripping sticks to 'fish' for termites) — a discovery that fundamentally changed how we define humanity."