Gombe Stream National Park, commonly known as Gombe National Park, is a small but world-famous park located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. Covering an area of approximately 35 square kilometers (13.5 square miles), it is Tanzania’s smallest national park. Despite its size, Gombe is renowned for its groundbreaking chimpanzee research and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights of Gombe National Park

1. Chimpanzee Research and Conservation

• Jane Goodall’s Legacy: Gombe is best known as the site where Dr. Jane Goodall began her pioneering research on wild chimpanzees in 1960. Her work in the park transformed our understanding of primates and their similarities to humans.
• Chimpanzee Trekking: Visitors can trek into the dense forests to observe Gombe’s habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park is home to around 100 chimpanzees, and trekking provides an intimate wildlife experience.

2. Scenic Natural Beauty

• Lake Tanganyika: The park lies on the shores of this vast freshwater lake, offering stunning views and opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
• Forested Hills: Gombe features steep valleys, forested hills, and waterfalls, creating a lush and serene environment. Streams like Kakombe and Mkenke flow through the park, enhancing its beauty.

3. Rich Biodiversity

• Primates: In addition to chimpanzees, the park hosts other primates, including olive baboons, red colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys.
• Birdlife: Over 200 bird species can be found in Gombe, including fish eagles, palm-nut vultures, and colorful kingfishers, making it a birdwatcher’s haven.
• Other Wildlife: Small mammals like bush pigs and a variety of reptiles also inhabit the park.

Activities in Gombe National Park

1. Chimpanzee Trekking: The main attraction, allowing visitors to spend time with the habituated chimpanzees, observing their behaviors and social interactions.
2. Hiking: Explore the park’s trails, leading to scenic viewpoints and attractions like Kakombe Waterfall.
3. Birdwatching: Enjoy spotting a wide range of bird species in the forest and along the lake.
4. Swimming and Snorkeling: Lake Tanganyika provides crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, with opportunities to see colorful fish.
5. Boating: Take a boat trip along the shoreline to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

Why Visit Gombe National Park?

• Historic Significance: Gombe’s association with Jane Goodall makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in primate research or conservation.
• Intimate Wildlife Encounters: The opportunity to observe chimpanzees up close in a natural setting is a rare and unforgettable experience.
• Remote Tranquility: The park’s remote location and small size ensure a peaceful and uncrowded experience.
• Unique Setting: The combination of forested mountains and the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika creates a unique and picturesque environment.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (July to October): This is the best time for chimpanzee trekking, as the trails are drier and easier to navigate. Wildlife is also easier to spot as vegetation is thinner.
• Wet Season (November to April): The park becomes lush and green, with plenty of birdlife. However, trekking can be more challenging due to muddy trails.