Gombe National Park, also known as Gombe Stream, is Tanzania’s smallest national park but one of its most famous. Set on the forested slopes above Lake Tanganyika in the remote west of the country, it was made world-renowned by Dr Jane Goodall’s pioneering chimpanzee research, which began here in 1960 and continues to this day.

Chimpanzee tracking

Gombe’s star attraction is tracking its habituated chimpanzees through steep forest trails – following in the footsteps of the world’s longest-running study of wild chimps. Spending time with these remarkable primates is an unforgettable, intimate experience.

Other wildlife

Beyond chimpanzees, Gombe is home to olive baboons, red colobus, red-tailed and blue monkeys, along with a rich variety of forest birds and butterflies.

Lake Tanganyika

The park’s setting on the shores of Lake Tanganyika – the world’s longest freshwater lake – adds swimming, snorkelling and boat trips to the experience.

Best time to visit

The dry season (June to October) offers the easiest forest trekking, while the wetter months bring lush scenery and good chimp viewing at lower altitudes.

Plan your Gombe safari

Gombe combines with Mahale and a Tanzania safari circuit. Start planning your Tanzania safari.