Gombe Stream is Tanzania’s smallest national park, a narrow strip of steep forested valleys on the shore of Lake Tanganyika. It is famous worldwide as the place where Jane Goodall began studying wild chimpanzees in 1960. Her research changed how science understands chimpanzees, and it continues today as the longest-running study of its kind.
Gombe at a glance
| Size | about 35 km² |
| Location | Western Tanzania, north of Kigoma |
| Best known for | Chimpanzees and Jane Goodall’s research |
| Best time | July to October |
| Access | Flight to Kigoma, then boat |
| Recommended stay | 2–3 nights |
Jane Goodall and Gombe
When Jane Goodall arrived at Gombe, little was known about wild chimpanzees. Her observations, including chimps making and using tools, hunting and forming complex social bonds, surprised scientists. Today, the Jane Goodall Institute supports research and community conservation around the park. Visitors can see the feeding station area and other places linked to her early work.
Chimpanzee trekking
Trackers locate the chimps in the morning. You then walk with a guide through steep, forested valleys. Treks can be short or take several hours. Time with the chimps is limited, and rules are similar to those in Mahale:
- Keep a set distance and follow your guide.
- Wear a face mask near the chimps.
- Do not trek if you are ill.
- No flash, food or drink near the chimps.
- A minimum age applies.
Other wildlife
- Olive baboons, which are also well studied here.
- Red colobus, red-tailed and blue monkeys.
- Forest birds and butterflies.
Other things to do
- Hike to Kakombe Waterfall.
- Walk to Jane’s Peak for views over the lake.
- Swim or relax on the lakeshore, where it is safe to do so.
- Visit Kigoma and nearby Ujiji, linked to the explorers Livingstone and Stanley.
Gombe compared with Mahale
| Gombe | Mahale | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Very small | Much larger |
| Access | Kigoma, then boat | Charter or scheduled flight, then boat |
| Accommodation | Simple | Few camps, some high-end |
| Feel | Historic, research-focused | Remote wilderness |
Best time to visit
July to October is the dry season, when trails are easier and chimps are often lower in the valleys. The rains from November to May make trails slippery, but the forest is at its greenest.
Planning a trip
Gombe is usually combined with Mahale, Katavi or a beach finish. Flights to Kigoma connect with Dar es Salaam. Our Mahale Chimpanzees trip can be adapted to add Gombe. Bring sturdy shoes, long trousers and a rain jacket, and read Tanzania national park rules before you go.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Jane Goodall began her chimpanzee research at Gombe in 1960, and the study continues today.
Fly to Kigoma, then take a boat north along Lake Tanganyika. The trip takes about one to two hours depending on the boat.
Two nights allows two chances to trek. Three nights gives more flexibility if the chimps are hard to find.
