Gombe Stream National Park
A Legendary Haven of Chimpanzees and Scenic Beauty
Overview
Gombe Stream National Park, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, is one of the country’s smallest yet most iconic protected areas. Covering just 52 square kilometers, this remote park is world-renowned as the site where Dr. Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzees, transforming our understanding of these remarkable primates.
Despite its small size, Gombe offers extraordinary beauty and intimacy. Steep valleys cloaked in tropical forest rise from the lakeshore, intersected by crystal-clear streams and waterfalls. The combination of lush vegetation, sparkling waters, and abundant wildlife creates a tranquil atmosphere that feels untouched by time.
Attractions found in the park
The park’s main attraction is its habituated chimpanzee population, which allows visitors a rare opportunity to observe these intelligent animals in their natural environment. Guided treks through the forest lead visitors to families of chimpanzees, where they can watch them feed, play, and interact an experience that is as humbling as it is unforgettable.
Beyond the chimpanzees, Gombe’s forests are home to other primates such as olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and colobus monkeys. The park’s birdlife is equally rich, with more than 200 recorded species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and tropical forest songbirds.
The park’s setting on the edge of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake, adds another layer of appeal. The lake’s clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets make Gombe a place of peaceful beauty and reflection.
Discover Unforgettable Adventures Activities That Bring Gombe to Life
Chimpanzee Trekking
The highlight of any visit to Gombe Stream National Park is trekking to see the chimpanzees. Accompanied by experienced guides, visitors follow forest trails in search of the park’s habituated groups.
Once found, travelers can spend time quietly observing their fascinating behaviors using tools, grooming, playing, and communicating in ways that reveal their close kinship with humans.
Each trek offers a unique experience, and the encounter with wild chimpanzees in such a pristine setting is often described as life-changing.
Birdwatching
Gombe’s diverse habitats—ranging from riverine forest to woodland and lakeshore support a rich variety of bird species. Birdwatchers can spot palm-nut vultures, crowned eagles, Peter’s twinspots, and tropical boubous among many others.
The tranquil surroundings make birding here both relaxing and rewarding, with the calls of forest birds echoing through the valleys.
Hiking and Nature Walks
For those who love to explore on foot, Gombe offers scenic hiking trails that lead to beautiful viewpoints and waterfalls. A climb to Jane’s Peak rewards visitors with sweeping views of the forest and Lake Tanganyika, while shorter walks along the streams reveal butterflies, orchids, and playful monkeys.
These trails capture the peaceful rhythm of the forest and invite quiet moments of connection with nature.
