Chimpanzees on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Gombe Stream National Park is situated in western Tanzania, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The park lies 16 kilometers north of Kigoma town, covering a narrow strip of mountainous terrain stretching from the lake shore up into the Rift Valley escarpment. At just 52 square kilometers, it's Tanzania's smallest national park.
Top Attractions & Highlights
Primates
Habituated chimpanzee communities Olive baboons Red-tailed monkeys Red colobus monkeys Vervet monkeys
Wildlife
Over 200 bird species Forest mammals including: Bushbuck Bush pigs Palm civets Fish eagles Giant kingfishers
Natural Features
Lake Tanganyika Crystal clear waters Sandy beaches World's longest freshwater lake
Landscapes
Steep valleys Streams and waterfalls Dense forest canopy Grassland ridges Activities Chimpanzee Tracking Guided walks to observe chimps Photography opportunities Behavioral study sessions Other Activities Hiking trails Swimming Snorkeling Sport fishing Bird watching Cultural visits to nearby villages
What to See & Do
Best Time to Visit
Drier trails and clearer forest conditions make chimpanzee tracking and lake views more comfortable.
The forest is lush and birdlife is rewarding, though rain can make trails slower and more slippery.