Overview
Follow in the footsteps of Jane Goodall on this 5-day chimpanzee trekking adventure in Gombe Stream National Park — one of the smallest yet most famous national parks in Africa. Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe is home to a habituated community of chimpanzees that Goodall has studied since 1960. Trek through the tropical forest with an expert guide to find the chimps — watching them feed, play, groom, and interact is a profoundly moving wildlife experience. Between treks, swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika and explore the forest for red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and rare birds.
Habituated chimpanzee trekking — Jane Goodall's research site
Up-close encounters with wild chimps in the forest
Lake Tanganyika swimming and boat rides
Red colobus monkey and baboon sightings
Remote western Tanzania wilderness
Small, intimate experience
Day by Day
Arrival in Kigoma & Transfer to Gombe
Arrive in Kigoma by flight or overland. Transfer to the shores of Lake Tanganyika and take a boat ride (approximately 2 hours) to Gombe Stream National Park. Settle into your guesthouse and explore the beach area. Briefing on chimpanzee trekking protocols.
Chimpanzee Trekking — Day 1
Early morning trek into the forest with your guide to track the habituated chimpanzee community. Follow the sounds of their calls through the forest canopy. Once found, spend up to one hour observing the chimps feeding, grooming, and playing. Afternoon at leisure — swim in Lake Tanganyika or explore the forest trails for red colobus monkeys.
Chimpanzee Trekking — Day 2
Second chimpanzee trek — each day brings different sightings and behaviors. You may witness chimps using tools to fish for termites, mother-infant interactions, or territorial displays. Afternoon hike to the Jane Goodall research station viewpoint overlooking Lake Tanganyika.
Forest Exploration & Lake Tanganyika
Morning forest walk to spot olive baboons, blue monkeys, and bushbuck. Explore the Kakombe waterfall trail. Afternoon boat ride along the lakeshore — the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika are home to hundreds of colourful cichlid fish species. Swimming and snorkelling opportunities.
Gombe to Kigoma & Departure
Final morning in Gombe — optional dawn walk along the beach or forest edge. Boat transfer back to Kigoma. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Included
- Kigoma return transfers
- Boat transfer to Gombe Stream NP
- All park entry fees
- Chimpanzee trekking permits
- Professional guide/tracker
- Full-board meals
- Basic guesthouse accommodation
- Drinking water
Not Included
- Flights to Kigoma
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Beverages
- Personal expenses
- Camera fees (if applicable)
Pricing
$1,437
1–1 climbers
$1,105
2–2 climbers
$939
4–6 climbers
Gosheni Safaris
Verified OperatorArusha, Tanzania
Award-winning safari operator based in Arusha with 15+ years of experience leading unforgettable wildlife expeditions across Tanzania.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fit do I need to be to climb Kilimanjaro?
You don't need to be an elite athlete, but a good level of general fitness is essential. We recommend starting a training programme at least 8-12 weeks before your climb, focusing on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength, and hiking with a loaded backpack.
What is the success rate for reaching the summit?
The overall success rate across all routes is around 65%. However, longer routes like Lemosho and Northern Circuit have success rates of 85-95% due to better acclimatisation profiles. Choosing the right route significantly impacts your chances.
Do I need supplemental oxygen?
No. Kilimanjaro is climbed without supplemental oxygen. Your body acclimatises naturally as you ascend. Our guides carry emergency oxygen for medical situations, but it is not used as a climbing aid.
What are the sleeping arrangements on the mountain?
On camping routes (Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, Umbwe, Northern Circuit), you sleep in tents at designated campsites. The Marangu route is the only route with dormitory-style hut accommodation.
When is the best time to climb Kilimanjaro?
The two main climbing seasons are January-March and June-October. June-October is the most popular with clear skies and dry conditions. January-March is also excellent with fewer crowds and occasional snow at higher altitudes.
Is altitude sickness dangerous?
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common and usually mild — headaches, nausea, fatigue. Our guides monitor every climber using pulse oximeters and are trained to recognise serious symptoms. The key prevention strategies are slow ascent, proper hydration, and choosing a route with good acclimatisation.
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