Best Places to See Primates in Tanzania

Best Places to See Primates in Tanzania

Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife, but it’s also a fantastic destination for primate viewing. From chimpanzees to various monkey species, there are select locations where you can experience these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats. Here are the top places to see primates in Tanzania:

Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountains National Park is one of the top destinations for primate encounters in Tanzania. This park is home to East Africa’s most notable primates, including chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys. Other wildlife species in the park include the giant squirrel, red-legged sun squirrel, brush-tailed porcupine, and bushy-tailed mongoose. The best time to see primates here is during the wet and fruiting seasons when tracking them is easier.

Gombe National Park

Famous for Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research, Gombe National Park is another prime spot for chimpanzee tracking. Visitors can trek habituated chimpanzee groups with experienced ranger guides along the Gombe Main Tracking Trail. Other wildlife and primate species found in the park include olive baboons, red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and diademed monkeys. Additionally, the park is home to leopards, bushbucks, buffalo, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species, including the African fish eagle and palm-nut vulture.

Other Top Places to See Primates in Tanzania

While Tanzania is mostly known for its big game safaris, other locations where you can spot primates include:

• Selous Game Reserve
• Arusha National Park
• Kilimanjaro National Park
• Katavi National Park
• Mikumi National Park

Best Time to Film Primates in Tanzania

The best time to film primates in Tanzania depends on the season:

• Rainy Season (November to mid-May): Ideal for chimpanzee sightings as food is plentiful, and the lush green vegetation creates stunning backdrops for filming.
• Dry Season (May to October): Great for photography, hiking, and clear sightings of primates in the open.

Although primates can be seen year-round, these seasons offer the best filming and tracking experiences.

Tanzania Visa and Travel Advice

Visitors to Tanzania require a tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival at any entry point for $100. Many travelers prefer securing their visas before arrival for convenience. Depending on your country of origin, proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Since entry regulations may change, it’s advisable to check with your local Tanzanian embassy or contact us for up-to-date travel information.

Tanzania Vehicle Hire Services

Trek Africa Expeditions can arrange transportation tailored to your budget and itinerary. We recommend using customized 4×4 Land Cruisers ($200-$250 per day with driver) or 4×4 Safari Vans ($200 per day with driver). Fuel costs vary depending on your itinerary, so we will calculate an estimate based on your schedule and distance traveled.

Where to Stay While Filming Primates in Tanzania

Tanzania offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to luxury lodges:

• Gombe National Park: Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge, Gombe Forest Lodge, Muzye Lodge, Mlukoyoyo Guest House
• Mahale Mountains National Park: Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge, Greystoke Mahale Camp, Kungwe Beach Lodge

We can help you choose the best lodge based on your budget and preferences.

Why Book Your Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes exceptional safari experiences in Tanzania. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and focus on eco-friendly adventures that support conservation and local communities. Our safari packages include gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, game drives, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters in top African destinations like Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Contact us today for expert guidance on the best places to see primates in Tanzania and to plan your dream safari adventure!