What is there to do in Gombe Stream National Park
If you’re looking for a truly wild place in Tanzania, home to the few of the magnificent remaining great apes known as chimpanzees and other endemic species in a fragile strip of lush forest and steep river valley rising towards the Rift valley escarpments, making Gombe an ideal place to visit as one can conduct different activities such as chimpanzee trekking, lake excursions, birdwatching, walking safari and hiking among others. Gombe Stream National Park is located in the western region in Kigoma District of Kigoma Region in Tanzania, the national park was stablished in 1968, it is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania covering an area of approximately 35 square kilometers of protected land along the hills of the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. The research done by the renowned scientist and conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall also showed the importance of conserving this remaining habitat which is a home of the chimpanzees. Gombe is also home to other species include olive baboons, blue monkey, red tailed monkey, vervet monkeys, red colobus monkeys and bush babies. It also protects 35 mammal species including the bushbuck, bush pigs, duiker, civets, white tailed mongoose and elephants.
What is there to do in Gombe Stream National Park
Chimpanzee trekking
Chimpanzee tracking in Gombe Stream National Park is one of the most sought-after experiences for those looking to witness the lives of our closest animal relatives. This park is one of the few spots globally where you can see wild chimpanzees in their own habitat. Visitors have a unique chance to connect with these clever primates.
The adventure usually starts in the early morning at the park’s headquarters, where you’ll receive a briefing about how to track the chimps and what to expect during your trek. After this, you’ll be paired with an experienced guide who will lead you through the park’s lush forests in search of these amazing animals.
While on a chimpanzee tracking tour, you’ll walk through the park’s beautiful, hilly terrain, where dense forests and steep slopes create an exciting and adventurous experience. While tracking the chimpanzees, you may encounter other forest inhabitants, including olive baboons, blue monkey, red tailed monkey, vervet monkeys, red colobus monkeys, bush babies, mammal species including the bushbuck, bush pigs, duiker, civets, white tailed mongoose and checkered elephant and a variety of colorful birds and flowering plants.
Once you find the chimpanzees, you’ll get to observe their daily activities, such as playing, grooming, and foraging for food. It’s a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories in the wild.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching is also another must-do activity to do while on a Tanzania safari in Gombe Stream National Park. the park is home to over 200 bird species that fly in the tropical forest and skying over the lake give you an unforgettable experience. Birding tours are typically ideal in early morning and late afternoon as the draw chorus of songs fills the air with melodies from colorful songbirds. During a birdwatching tours in the park, you will have the chance to spot variety of colorful birds such as African Hobby, Grey Kestrel, Bat Hawk, Palm-nut vulture, Forbes’ plover, Afep pigeon, Yellow-bill/Green coucal, blue kingfisher, Blue-breasted kingfisher, Double-toothed Barbet, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Grey-throated Barbet, Yellow-billed Barbet, African Broadbill, Equatorial Akalat, Splendid starling, Purple-headed starling, Red-chested sunbird, Superb sunbird and Rreen- throated sunbird among others.
Walking Safaris
For those who prefer a more intimate experience with nature, guided walking safaris offer a chance to explore the park on foot. Expert guides share their knowledge about the ecosystem, flora, and fauna, providing insights into the natural world. While on a walking safari in Gombe Stream National Park, you’ll have the chance to encounter different wildlife animals such as elephants, giraffes, warthogs and among others. Guided walking safaris also offers astonishing views of Kakombe and Mkenke waterfall and other incredible wildlife animals, visitors can head out to Kakombe trail and Mkenke valley and explore the gorgeous natural features around Kakombe and Mkenke waterfalls.
Boat Cruise
A boat cruise on Lake Tanganyika is a relaxing way to experience Gombe Stream National Park from a different angle. This serene activity allows visitors to take in the stunning scenery and tranquillity of the lake while keeping an eye out for birds and other wildlife along the shoreline. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and chimpanzee trekking, and the chance to see the sunset over the water can be a highlight of your visit. A boat cruise combines leisure and natural beauty, making it an ideal addition to any Gombe itinerary.
Hiking Jane’s Peak
Hiking Jane’s Peak is a must-do when visiting Gombe Stream National Park. It’s a challenging but rewarding trek that offers stunning views from the top. The peak is named after Jane Goodall, the famous primatologist whose groundbreaking work brought attention to chimpanzees and the need to preserve their habitats.
The hike takes you through thick rainforests and steep, rugged paths, requiring good fitness and a sense of adventure. Along the way, you’ll experience the rich biodiversity of the area. As you ascend, you’ll be surrounded by the lively sounds of the forest: monkeys chatting, leaves rustling, and various birds calling out, creating a natural soundtrack for your journey. Upon reaching to the summit, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring astonishing views the encompasses the lush green landscape, the expansive waters of late Tanganyika and glimpse of the forest that contains the chimpanzees.
Best accommodations at Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stream National Park offers a range of places to stay, including options for cooking your own meals, cozy lodges, and upscale hotels. Some of accommodation available here include Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge, Lake Tanganyika Hotel, Coast View Resort, Mwitongo Garden Hotel, Janda Lodge, Sunset Vista Hotel, One Point Lodge, Gombe Executive Lodge, Nzimano Hotel, Triple J Resort, Zanzibar Lodge, Malagarasi Hotel, Mwanga Lodge and Kigoma Hilltop Hotel among others
How to get to Gombe Stream National Park
This park can be reached by boat from Kigoma town. Tou can drive or book a charter flight from Dar es salaam, Mwanza or Arusha or take a slow or fast train from Dar es salaam, or ferry along the shore of Lake Tanganyika from Burundi or Zambia to Kigoma. To reach Gombe you must travel by boat from Kigoma as there is no road to the park. Take a local tax or charter boat from Kigoma to Gombe which takes about 2-3 hours. You can plan for an overnight stay or for a day trip and return to Kigoma town in a single day. For brilliant chimpanzee trekking and viewing we recommend you to have two nights for exploring their culture, beauty and behavior.
