Western Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream, both on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, offer chimpanzee trekking in a setting genuinely unlike anywhere else — forested mountains rising directly from one of the world’s deepest lakes, reached only by light aircraft and boat given the remoteness.
Detailed Itinerary
Fly to Mahale Mountains National Park
A scheduled light aircraft flight to Mahale, followed by a boat transfer along Lake Tanganyika’s shore to your lodge.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale
A guided trek into the forested mountains rising directly from the lake, tracking one of the largest known wild chimpanzee populations, habituated over decades of research.
As above
Lake Tanganyika at Leisure, Second Trek Option
A free morning for swimming or snorkelling in the lake’s famously clear water, with the option of a second chimpanzee trek in the afternoon.
As above
Transfer to Gombe Stream National Park
A boat and light aircraft transfer north to Gombe, made famous by Jane Goodall’s pioneering chimpanzee research beginning in 1960.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe
A trek into Africa’s smallest national park, home to the world’s longest-running wild chimpanzee study, with genuinely well-documented, well-habituated communities.
As above
Fly to Arusha or Dar es Salaam, Departure
A light aircraft transfer connecting to your onward international flight.
Permits & Costs
| Mahale chimpanzee permit | ~$100 per person |
| Gombe chimpanzee permit | ~$100 per person |
| Light aircraft transfers | Required, quoted separately |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Experienced travellers specifically seeking genuine remoteness and chimpanzee trekking in a setting distinct from East Africa’s more accessible primate parks.
Tour Includes
- Professional English-speaking guide at each park
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Chimpanzee permits & boat transfers
Tour Excludes
- Light aircraft fares
- International flights
- Visas
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this compare to gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda?
Different species and setting entirely — this is chimpanzee-specific trekking in a genuinely remote lakeside mountain range, considerably harder to reach than Uganda or Rwanda’s gorilla parks.
Why visit both Mahale and Gombe?
Each has a distinct research history and character; many travellers with the time and budget do both for a fuller western Tanzania chimpanzee experience.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm flights and permits within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.