Chimpanzees are our closest living relatives, sharing much of our DNA. In Tanzania they live in the forests of the far west, along Lake Tanganyika and in nearby woodland. Two national parks, Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream, have groups used to people, making it possible to watch them in the wild.
Chimpanzee facts
| Scientific name | Pan troglodytes |
| Status | Endangered |
| Weight | About 30–60 kg |
| Diet | Fruit, leaves, insects, sometimes meat |
| Social life | Communities of dozens, splitting into smaller groups |
| Where in Tanzania | Mahale, Gombe and forests of the west |
Behaviour
Tool use
Chimps use sticks to fish termites out of mounds, stones to crack nuts and leaves as sponges to drink water. Jane Goodall’s observations of tool use at Gombe in the 1960s changed how scientists thought about animals.
Social life
Chimps live in communities that break into smaller groups during the day. They groom each other, form alliances and compete for rank. Watching the politics of a chimp group is one of the most fascinating wildlife experiences in Africa.
Communication
Pant-hoots, screams, drumming on tree roots and facial expressions all carry meaning. You usually hear the chimps before you see them.
Hunting
Chimps sometimes hunt, especially red colobus monkeys, working in groups.
Mahale or Gombe?
| Mahale Mountains | Gombe Stream | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Very small |
| Access | Flight, then boat | Flight to Kigoma, then boat |
| Known for | Remote wilderness, mountain forest | Jane Goodall’s research |
| Accommodation | A few camps, some high-end | Simple |
| Recommended stay | 3–4 nights | 2–3 nights |
Read our full guides to Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream.
Trekking rules
- Keep a set distance from the chimps.
- Wear a mask near them.
- Do not trek if you are ill.
- No flash, eating or drinking near chimps.
- Time with the chimps is limited.
- A minimum age applies.
Best time to go
July to October is the dry season, when trails are easier and chimps often stay lower on the slopes. The wet months make trails slippery, and some camps close during the long rains.
What to bring
- Sturdy walking shoes with grip.
- Long trousers and long sleeves.
- A light rain jacket.
- Water and a small daypack.
- A camera with good low-light performance.
See the full packing list.
Threats to chimpanzees
Habitat loss, disease and hunting threaten chimps across Africa. The strict trekking rules protect them from human illnesses. Tourism fees support park protection and research.
Plan your trip
Our Mahale Chimpanzees trip gives you several days of trekking and can be combined with Ruaha, the Serengeti or Zanzibar. For other primates, read about colobus monkeys and bushbabies.
Frequently asked questions
Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream national parks, both on Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, have habituated chimpanzees you can trek to see.
Visitors keep a set distance, and time with the chimps is limited. Masks are worn to protect them from human diseases.
Yes. Flights link western Tanzania with Arusha, Ruaha and Katavi, so chimps can be added before or after a northern or southern safari.
