5-Day Gombe Stream Chimpanzee Trek Safari

Destinations: Tanzania (Gombe Stream National Park)

Detail	Information
Brief Overview	A focused chimpanzee trekking itinerary to Gombe Stream NP—the historic site of Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research. This shorter itinerary is ideal for travelers who want the ultimate chimp experience without the cost and time of adding Mahale. Gombe offers habituated chimps, beautiful Lake Tanganyika scenery, and a sense of history.

DAY-BY-DAY BREAKDOWN

Day 1: Dar es Salaam – Fly to Kigoma & Transfer to Gombe

• Morning (8:00 AM): Pick up from Dar es Salaam hotel, transfer to domestic airport.
• Morning (10:00 AM): Flight to Kigoma (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Arrive Kigoma, lunch, then boat (1-2 hours) to Gombe Stream NP.
• Late Afternoon: Arrive Gombe Forest Lodge, check in.
• Briefing: Learn about Jane Goodall’s research and park rules.
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Gombe Forest Lodge

Day 2-3: Gombe Stream NP – Two Full Days of Chimpanzee Trekking

• Each Day:
  • Early Morning (6:30 AM): Breakfast.
  • Morning (7:30 AM – 12:00 PM): Guided chimpanzee trek (3-5 hours) through steep forested slopes.
  • Mid-day: Return to lodge for lunch and rest.
  • Afternoon (3:30 PM): Second trek or alternative: nature walk to Jane Goodall’s original research camp (now a simple museum), hike to Kakombe Waterfall, or relax on the lake shore.
  • Evening: Dinner.
• Potential Sightings: Chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, baboons; birdlife abundant.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner each day
• Accommodation: Same lodge

Day 4: Gombe – Relaxed Morning & Boat Trip on Lake Tanganyika

• Morning (8:00 AM): Breakfast.
• Morning (9:00 AM): Optional nature walk or boat trip along the lake (2-3 hours) to explore nearby inlets.
• Afternoon: Relaxation, swimming in Lake Tanganyika (safe).
• Evening: Sunset cocktails, farewell dinner.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Same lodge

Day 5: Gombe – Return to Dar es Salaam

• Morning (7:00 AM): Breakfast, check out.
• Morning (8:00 AM): Boat transfer back to Kigoma (1-2 hours).
• Late Morning: Flight from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam (2 hours).
• Afternoon: Transfer to Julius Nyerere International Airport for departure.
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: None (departure)

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Inclusions	Exclusions
Dar es Salaam airport transfers	International airfare
Return flights (Dar es Salaam – Kigoma – Dar es Salaam)	Tanzania visa ($50)
Boat transfers (Kigoma – Gombe – Kigoma)	Travel insurance (mandatory)
Shared or private guide (depending on group)	Personal expenses
Accommodation (4 nights full-board)	Alcoholic drinks
Park entry fees	Tips for guides, boat crew, lodge staff
Chimpanzee trekking permits	Laundry services
Guided treks and nature walks	Premium drinks
Bottled water throughout
All applicable government taxes

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Season	Months	Conditions
Dry Season	May – October	Best trekking, trails less slippery
Green Season	November – April	More vegetation, muddier trails, fewer tourists

WHAT TO PACK

Same as Itinerary 32 but focus on hiking gear. Essential: sturdy waterproof hiking boots, gaiters, long pants (quick-dry), insect repellent, daypack, rain jacket.

RECOMMENDED LODGES

Category	Lodges/Camps	Features
Budget	Ulyankulu Campsite (basic camping)	Campsite with facilities, self-catering or simple meals
Mid-Range	Gombe Forest Lodge	Only lodge in park, comfortable tents, ensuite bathrooms, good food

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What’s the daily routine for chimp trekking?
A: Wake at 5:30-6:00 AM, breakfast, meet guide at 7:00 AM, hike 2-5 hours depending on chimp location, return for lunch, rest, optional afternoon activity.

Q: Are there other wildlife in Gombe?
A: Yes—primates (red-tailed monkeys, vervets, baboons), bush pigs, small antelopes, and a variety of birds.

Q: How fit do I need to be?
A: Very fit—terrain is steep and can be muddy. Porters available (hire directly at park).