5-DAY POST–NORTHERN CIRCUIT SAFARI: CHIMPANZEE TREKKING EXPERIENCE
Gombe Stream National Park
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Duration
6 Hours
Tour Type
Climbing & Trekking
Group Size
10 persons
Location
Tanzania
Overview
This 5-day chimpanzee trekking experience is a unique extension offered by Mwanamshiki Tours and safaris, following your Northern Circuit safari, designed for travelers seeking an intimate encounter with Africa’s most fascinating primates. The journey begins in Arusha and concludes in Zanzibar, combining wildlife, history and scenic beauty.
The highlight of this itinerary is Gombe Stream National Park, world-famous for Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking chimpanzee research, which began in 1960 and revolutionized our understanding of primate behavior and conservation. Walking through the same forests where her studies took place offers a truly meaningful and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Starting Point: Arusha
Ending Point: Zanzibar
Included/Excluded
• Park fees(For non-residents) • Chimp permits(One per person, non-resident) • All activities(Unless labeled as optional) • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade) • A professional driver/guide • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional) • All domestic flights during the tour • All Taxes/VAT • Roundtrip airport transfer • Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section) • Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
• International flights(From/to home) • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour • Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 or US$20 pp per day) • Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees etc.) • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Itinerary
Day 01: Arusha – Dar es Salaam
Day 01: Arusha – Dar es Salaam
After completing your Northern Circuit safari, you will depart Arusha in the late afternoon and travel to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s vibrant coastal city and commercial hub. The journey allows time to relax after your safari while transitioning to the western part of the country.
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel near the airport. The evening is at leisure, followed by dinner and an overnight stay, ensuring you are well-rested for your early flight the following day.
Accommodation: Airport FQ Hotel
Meal Plan: Half Board
Destination: Dar es Salaam
Day 02: Dar es Salaam – Gombe Stream National Park
Day 02: Dar es Salaam – Gombe Stream National Park
After an early breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Julius Nyerere International Airport for your scheduled domestic flight to Kigoma, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Upon arrival, you will visit Ujiji Village, one of Africa’s most historically significant sites. Here, you will explore the Dr. Livingstone Memorial Center, learning about the slave trade era and the historic meeting between Dr. David Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley.
Later, you will be transferred to Kibirizi Port for a scenic boat journey along Lake Tanganyika to Gombe Stream National Park. On arrival, you will check in at your camp and enjoy a freshly prepared hot lunch.
In the afternoon, you will begin your first chimpanzee trekking experience, guided by expert park rangers through dense forest trails in search of these remarkable primates.
Accommodation: Kasekele Luxury Campsite
Meal Plan: Full Board
Destination: Gombe Stream National Park
Day 03: Full-Day Chimpanzee Trekking – Gombe Stream National Park
Day 03: Full-Day Chimpanzee Trekking – Gombe Stream National Park
After breakfast, at approximately 8:30 AM, you will set out on a guided chimpanzee tracking excursion deep into Gombe’s tropical rainforest. This park gained global recognition through Dr. Jane Goodall’s long-term conservation and behavioral research, making it one of the most important primate research sites in the world.
As you trek through the forest, you may also encounter colobus monkeys, velvet monkeys, baboons, and a wide variety of birdlife. Your guide will share insights into chimpanzee social structures, communication and conservation efforts.
If time and conditions allow, you will hike to Jane’s Peak, offering spectacular views over Lake Tanganyika and visit the scenic Kakombe Waterfalls, one of the park’s natural highlights.
Accommodation: Kasekele Luxury Campsite
Meal Plan: Full Board
Destination: Gombe Stream National Park
Day 04: Morning Chimpanzee Trek – Return to Kigoma
Day 04: Morning Chimpanzee Trek – Return to Kigoma
After breakfast, you will enjoy a second chimpanzee trekking experience, exploring different valleys of the park. This morning trek increases your chances of observing varied chimpanzee behavior and discovering new forest trails.
During the walk, you will visit the picturesque Mkenge Waterfall and enjoy the tranquil sounds of the forest. Around midday, you will return to camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will pack and take a boat transfer back across Lake Tanganyika to Kigoma Town. Upon arrival, you will check in at your hotel, enjoy dinner and relax overnight.
Accommodation: Kigoma Hilltop Hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board
Destination: Gombe Stream National Park
Day 05: Kigoma to Zanzibar
Day 05: Kigoma to Zanzibar
After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Kigoma Airport for your scheduled flight to Dar es Salaam, where you will connect onward to Zanzibar.
Upon arrival in Zanzibar, your safari adventure comes to an end, marking the conclusion of a truly memorable experience combining wildlife, history and conservation.
Accommodation: Not included
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Travel Styles
Cultural
Nature & Adventure
Activities
Special Interest
Facilities
Wifi
FAQs
1. What is chimpanzee trekking in Gombe?
Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe Stream National Park allows visitors to track and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, guided by experienced park rangers and trackers.
2. Where is Gombe National Park located?
Gombe is located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, near Kigoma in western Tanzania.
3. How long does the trek usually take?
Trekking typically takes 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees on the day.
4. How far will I walk during the trek?
The trekking distance can range from 2 to 10 km, depending on how far the chimpanzees have moved.
5. What time do treks start?
Treks usually start in the early morning (around 6:30 AM) to increase the chances of locating the chimpanzees.
6. Is chimpanzee sighting guaranteed?
While Gombe has excellent chances for sightings, chimpanzees are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.
7. How much time do we spend with the chimpanzees?
Once the chimpanzees are found, visitors are allowed to spend up to one hour observing them.
8. What is the minimum age for trekking?
The minimum age is usually 15 years, depending on park regulations.
9. What should I wear and bring?
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers
Light rain jacket
Hat and sunscreen
Insect repellent
Water bottle
Camera (flash photography is not allowed)
10. Is the trek difficult?
The terrain in Gombe is hilly and forested, so a moderate fitness level is recommended. The walk can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
11. Are there any health requirements?
Visitors who are unwell should not trek, as chimpanzees are vulnerable to human diseases.
12. What happens if chimpanzees are not found?
If the chimpanzees cannot be located, the trek may be shortened or rescheduled. Park rangers will guide you on the best available option.
14. Does the trek include a guide?
Yes, all treks are led by professional guides and park rangers, sometimes accompanied by trackers.
15. Are there other activities in Gombe?
Yes. Guests can also enjoy:
Nature walks
Bird watching
Boat rides on Lake Tanganyika
Visiting local villages
Tour Location
Gombe Stream National Park
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Mwanamshiki Tours and Safaris
Member Since Dec 2025
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