4 Days Gombe Stream Chimps
4 DAYS GOMBE CHIMPANZEE TRACKING
Chimpanzee tracking in Gombe Stream National Park is a remarkable and unique experience, as this park is renowned for the groundbreaking research conducted by Jane Goodall and her team on wild chimpanzees. Gombe Stream National Park is located in western Tanzania along the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. Here are some important details about chimpanzee tracking in Gombe:
History: Gombe Stream National Park gained worldwide recognition thanks to Dr. Jane Goodall’s pioneering research on chimpanzees, which began in the early 1960s. Her work revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzee behavior, tool use, and social structure.
Chimpanzee Habituation: The chimpanzees in Gombe Stream National Park are habituated to human presence, allowing researchers and tourists to get relatively close to them. This is a unique aspect of Gombe, as habituation can take years and is not the case in all chimpanzee habitats.
Chimpanzee Tracking: Visitors to Gombe can participate in chimpanzee tracking treks. These treks typically involve guided walks through the forest to find and observe chimpanzee groups. The length and difficulty of the trek can vary, as chimpanzee groups move throughout the park
Ethical Considerations: Similar to other chimpanzee trekking experiences, it's essential to follow ethical guidelines to minimize disturbance to the chimpanzees and their natural habitat. Maintain a safe distance, avoid direct eye contact, and do not feed the chimpanzees. Accommodations: Gombe Stream National Park offers accommodations within the park, including campsites and lodges. Staying within the park allows you to immerse yourself fully in the chimpanzee tracking experience.
Guides: Visitors are accompanied by experienced guides and trackers who are well-versed in the behavior of the chimpanzee groups in the park. They will help you locate the chimpanzees and provide valuable insights during the trek. Timing: The best time to visit Gombe for chimpanzee tracking is during the dry season, typically from June to October. During this period, the forest is less dense, making it easier to spot the chimpanzees.
How it is Schedule?
A flight of about 4 hours, with a refuel stop in Tabora before arriving in Katavi National Park. This flight really illustrates just how remote and untouched this part of Tanzania is. There is nothing but wilderness for miles as you fly over the country.
Wake up early for breakfast and meet your guide.
Begin your chimpanzee tracking adventure in Gombe Stream National Park.
Spend the day tracking and observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Your guide will lead you to where the chimpanzee groups are located.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the park.
In the evening, return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.
After breakfast, embark on another chimpanzee tracking expedition.
Explore different areas of the park and learn more about the behavior and ecology of the chimpanzees.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest.
Return to your accommodation in the evening.
Spend your last morning at Gombe Stream National Park exploring the park’s beauty, which includes lush forests, birdlife, and the serene Lake Tanganyika.
Depending on your travel plans, you may have some free time to explore Kigoma or relax by Lake Tanganyika.
Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the specific activities and timing may vary depending on your preferences and the availability of permits and accommodations. It’s essential to book your chimpanzee trekking permits and accommodations well in advance, as the number of visitors to Gombe Stream National Park is limited to ensure the protection of the chimpanzees and their habitat. Additionally, it’s advisable to check the current entry requirements and travel conditions for Tanzania before your trip.
Accommodation: Mid-range hotel in Arusha
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast
You will be travelling in one of our comfortable safari vehicles. Each 4×4 vehicle has a “pop top” roof to provide excellent views of the incredible wildlife.
The different National Parks – Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro. While this gives you the opportunity to see more of the Tanzania countryside, look out for Maasai villages beside the road, children tending their herds of goats and cattle, and road-side markets – you will not see any game during these transit times.
