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Gombe Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

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Gombe Stream National Park, at just 35 square kilometers, is Tanzania's smallest national park but gained global fame through the pioneering work of Dr. Jane Goodall. Perched on the steep eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, the park features deep valleys and dense tropical rainforest interspersed with grasslands on the ridges. Goodall began her landmark study of chimpanzee behavior here in 1960, research that fundamentally altered the human understanding of primates. Established as a national park in 1968, it primarily serves to protect resident chimpanzee communities and other primates, including Anubis baboons and red colobus monkeys. Due to the rugged terrain, the park is only accessible by boat via Lake Tanganyika, maintaining its secluded and protected environment. Gombe remains a significant hub for international primatology and high-impact conservation efforts.

Location: Tanzania
Nearby: Kigoma (28 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	24	25	25	25	25	24	24	26	27	26	25	24
Rain mm	164	129	157	161	58	8	5	13	44	97	191	160

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The dry season from June to October is well-suited for chimpanzee tracking, as they are easier to locate and trails are drier. In the rainy season, chimpanzees are still active but paths become slippery.

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Best time of day

Chimpanzee groups are located early morning at their sleeping nests - start your hike at dawn. Later treks are less successful as the animals move deeper into the forest.

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Etiquette

Keep a minimum of 10 meters from chimpanzees - this protects both you and the animals from disease transmission. No flash photography and no loud talking.

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What to bring

Sturdy, ankle-high hiking boots are essential due to uneven terrain. Long trousers and long sleeves protect against insects and thorns; binoculars and camera are recommended.

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Getting there

The park is reached only by boat from Kigoma - the trip takes about one hour. Guided treks to the chimpanzees start on site; advance booking is required.

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What to expect

Chimpanzees are constantly moving and can travel quickly through the forest - calmly follow your guide. It may take hours to locate a group, but the experience is unforgettable.

Geography

Coordinates

-4.60000, 29.60000

Facts

Tanzania's smallest national park (35 km2)
Established in 1968
Site of Jane Goodall's 1960 research
Accessible only by boat on Lake Tanganyika
Critical sanctuary for wild chimpanzees
Features the scenic Kakombe Waterfall

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gombe National Park7 km · NWExplore →

Gombe Forest15 km · WExplore →

Port of Nyanza-Lac24 km · EExplore →

Nyanza-Lac24 km · EExplore →

Kigoma Port27 km · WExplore →

Ujiji Historical Site31 km · WExplore →

Mabanda39 km · NEExplore →

Mount Inanzerwe42 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How can I see chimpanzees in Gombe-Park?

You must book a guided chimpanzee tracking tour.

Do I need a permit?

Yes, a special permit is required for tracking the chimpanzees.

How do I get to Gombe-Park?

Access is by boat from Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika.

Is the park suitable for children?

Due to the demanding hiking, it is not recommended for younger children.

When is the best time to visit?

The dry season from July to October is handy for hiking.

Gombe Park: where is it located?

Gombe Park is located in Tanzania.

Gombe Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Gombe Park: why is it worth visiting?

Gombe Stream National Park, at just 35 square kilometers, is Tanzania's smallest national park but gained global fame through the pioneering work of Dr.

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