Gombe Stream & Mahale Mountains (Chimpanzee Treks)

Hidden on the remote western shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks are Tanzania’s best-kept secrets — the ultimate destinations for chimpanzee trekking and authentic wilderness experiences. Unlike the open savannahs of Serengeti, these two parks offer a lush, tropical escape filled with dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rare encounters with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Gombe Stream National Park, made world-famous by Dr. Jane Goodall’s pioneering chimpanzee research, is the smallest national park in Tanzania but one of the most iconic. Here, visitors can follow the same trails where Goodall first observed wild chimpanzee behavior — watching them feed, play, and interact within their family groups. The park also offers scenic views of Lake Tanganyika, beautiful waterfalls, and diverse birdlife.

Mahale Mountains National Park, slightly further south, is even more remote and pristine. Accessible mainly by boat, Mahale’s forested mountains rise dramatically from the lake shore, offering breathtaking views and intimate wildlife encounters. The park is home to one of Africa’s largest wild chimpanzee populations, as well as other primates, forest birds, and small mammals. Trekking here feels like stepping back in time — a peaceful, untouched world of pure natural beauty.

Both destinations combine perfectly for travelers seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience — a blend of adventure, nature, and connection with the wild. Whether you’re tracking chimpanzees through lush jungles, swimming in the crystal waters of Lake Tanganyika, or relaxing in a remote lakeside lodge, Gombe and Mahale promise one of the most profound safari experiences in Africa.