From Dar es Salaam: 5-Day Gombe National Park Tour

Contents show

Exploring the 5-Day Gombe National Park Tour from Dar es Salaam

Travelers seeking an authentic wildlife adventure will find this 5-day Gombe National Park tour a compelling option. Set in the Kigoma Region of Tanzania, this journey offers a mix of primate encounters, scenic boat rides, and lush forest explorations. It’s perfect for those who enjoy combining wildlife viewing with cultural insights and natural beauty.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat—a rare opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts. Second, the scenic boat trip on Lake Tanganyika provides a relaxing break from forest trekking, with stunning views and a sense of tranquility. Third, the visits to Kakombe Waterfalls and climbing Jane Goodalls Peak add adventure and photo-worthy moments.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves walking in dense forest areas, so it might not suit travelers with mobility issues or insect allergies. The price of $1,298 per person reflects the full package, including flights, accommodations, and guided excursions, making it a worthwhile investment for an immersive experience. This tour is ideal for those eager to combine wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural visits—all wrapped into one adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Wildlife focus: Primarily chimpanzee tracking in Gombe’s rainforest.
Scenic boat rides: Lake Tanganyika offers peaceful, picturesque views.
Birdwatching: The forests and waterfalls attract a variety of tropical and bird species.
Cultural visits: Tour includes sightseeing of Kigoma and Ujiji Town.
Comfort & convenience: Accommodation at Gombe Lodge and all-inclusive meals.
Physical activity: Expect walking, climbing, and outdoor exploration in tropical conditions.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dar Es Salaam

Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to Kigoma

Your adventure begins with a flight from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, a crucial step in reaching Gombe’s remote location. The flight typically lasts around an hour, giving you a quick escape from city bustle to the calm of western Tanzania.

Upon arrival, you’ll transfer to Kigoma Town, a modest yet charming hub on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Dinner at Sangara Restaurant is included, where you can sample local dishes and get a feel for the area. Spending your first night here prepares you for the next day’s lake adventure.

Day 2: Boat to Gombe and primate tracking

Early mornings are best for getting on the water. After breakfast, you’ll head to the lake for a boat ride to Gombe. The boat transfer itself offers amazing views of the lake, with chances to spot waterbirds and perhaps even some fish eagles soaring overhead.

Once you arrive at Gombe, you’ll transfer to your camp and enjoy a hot lunch. The main event? Chimpanzee tracking in the forest, which can take several hours. Expect to walk on uneven, sometimes rocky terrain, so hiking shoes are essential. The guides, including knowledgeable locals, help you spot various primates like vervet and colobus monkeys, baboons, and forest pigs. Several reviewers mention how “the guides are enthusiastic and very attentive”.

Day 3: Birdwatching and Kakombe Waterfalls

Your morning begins with breakfast before heading out for another chance at spotting chimpanzees. Today’s hike takes you to Kakombe Waterfalls, adding a scenic element to your primate quest. The waterfalls provide a peaceful backdrop, perfect for photos and relaxing moments.

Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see species like the African Broadbill, sunbirds, hornbills, and perhaps even raptors like crowned eagles overhead. The guide will keep an eye out for primates and birds, making this a well-rounded nature experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Climbing Jane Goodalls Peak

The highlight of this day is climbing to Jane Goodalls Peak, a vantage point offering sweeping views of the forest and lake. The terrain around the waterfalls is rocky and damp, attracting insects and birdlife alike.

During the hike, expect to see kingfishers, wagtails, and various raptors. The hike is moderately strenuous but rewarding for those wanting a mix of adventure and birdwatching.

There's plenty more to explore in Dar Es Salaam

Day 5: Return to Kigoma and city sightseeing

On your final morning, after breakfast, you’ll take a boat back to Kigoma. The boat ride offers a peaceful reflection time and scenic views of the lake. Once in Kigoma, you’ll enjoy a short sightseeing tour of the town and Ujiji, a site famous for historical trade routes and the meeting of explorers.

After lunch at Kigoma Hilltop Hotel, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Dar es Salaam. It’s a well-rounded way to end the trip with a taste of local culture and history.

The $1,298 per person price covers all flights, accommodations at Gombe Lodge, meals, park permits, and guided excursions. Considering the exclusivity of primate encounters, scenic boat rides, and cultural visits, it’s a solid value for an all-inclusive wildlife adventure.

In addition, staying at Gombe Lodge ensures comfort amid nature, and the guided nature walks are led by experienced local guides. This enhances both safety and insight, enriching your understanding of the flora and fauna.

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s core transportation includes a flight from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma and a boat transfer to Gombe. The boat rides are reliable and scenic, offering a different perspective of the landscape. The group size tends to be small, which means more personalized attention from guides—a plus for wildlife viewing.

Packing & Preparation

Travelers find it helpful to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, hiking gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing. The dense forest environment and tropical climate demand practical gear. Keep in mind, this activity involves walking in dense forests, so a good pair of hiking shoes and insect repellent are essential.

Wildlife & Birdwatching

Beyond chimpanzees, expect to see baboons, forest pigs, dik-diks, and a variety of bird species, particularly around waterfalls and rocky areas. Reviewers mention how guides are attentive to spotting wildlife and that birdwatching can be quite rewarding with sightings of hornbills, kingfishers, and even raptors.

Many travelers highlight the personal connections with guides, often mentioning their enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “The guides are passionate and eager to share their knowledge, making every sighting more meaningful.”

You might find that the timing of the guided walks often aligns with wildlife activity peaks in the early mornings and late afternoons, so planning accordingly can maximize sightings.

While the tour is well-structured, some mention that weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers and rain gear is advisable. Also, avoid wearing bright colors or touching plants—respect for wildlife and preservation are key.

This 5-day Gombe tour packs a lot into a short time—wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and cultural insights. It’s most suited for travelers with a keen interest in primates, birdwatching, or natural landscapes who are comfortable with outdoor activities and walking in forested environments.

For those seeking a unique and immersive experience in Tanzania’s less-traveled corners, this tour offers genuine value, blending adventure and relaxation effortlessly. It’s a fantastic choice for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a deeper connection with nature.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration, this tour hits all those marks without feeling rushed or superficial.

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,298 covers flights from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, boat transfer to Gombe, accommodation at Gombe Lodge, all meals as per the itinerary, park permits, and guided activities like chimpanzee tracking and sightseeing.

Are flights from Dar es Salaam included?
No, the price is per person and does not include international or domestic flights. You’ll need to book your flight to Kigoma separately.

What should I pack for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, hiking shoes, a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, weather-appropriate clothing, and binoculars. Remember, walking in dense forests is involved.

Is the activity suitable for all ages?
The tour involves walking in dense forests, climbing rocky areas, and outdoor activity, so it may not suit everyone, especially those with insect allergies or mobility issues.

Can I expect to see other wildlife besides chimpanzees?
Yes, many reviews mention the presence of vervet and colobus monkeys, baboons, forest pigs, dik-diks, and a variety of tropical birds like hornbills, kingfishers, and raptors.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay at Gombe Lodge, which offers comfortable facilities amid the natural surroundings, ensuring a cozy base after long days of exploration.

Is birdwatching good on this tour?
Absolutely. The forests and waterfalls attract many bird species, and guides are attentive to bird sightings, making it a rewarding experience for bird enthusiasts.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Most days are filled with guided excursions, but the evenings at Gombe Lodge provide a relaxed setting for reflection or enjoying the scenery.

What if it rains?
Weather can vary, so packing rain gear and layers is recommended. Guides are experienced in handling varying conditions, and outdoor activities might be adjusted accordingly.

Embark on this journey if you want a meaningful encounter with wild chimpanzees, scenic landscapes, and a taste of Tanzanian culture—all within a thoughtfully organized package.