Where to See Chimpanzees in Tanzania

Where to See Chimpanzees in Tanzania: Top Parks for an Unforgettable Primate Safari

Tanzania is one of the most rewarding countries in Africa for chimpanzee trekking. In fact, it was one of the first places on the continent to establish a national park dedicated to the conservation of chimpanzees. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari-goer, tracking chimpanzees in Tanzania offers an up-close and emotional experience that’s unlike any other.

Here are the two best destinations for chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania:

Gombe Stream National Park – Follow in the Footsteps of Jane Goodall

Gombe Stream National Park is arguably the most famous place to see chimpanzees in Tanzania. This is where renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall began her groundbreaking research on wild chimpanzee behavior—work that continues to this day. Located along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe is a remote, forested park known for its habituated chimpanzee families.

Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe typically starts on the main forest trail and is led by experienced park rangers. While tracking, you may also spot other fascinating wildlife like olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, red colobus monkeys, diademed monkeys, and leopards, as well as various antelope species and birdlife such as the African fish eagle, palm-nut vulture, and Peters’s twinspot.

Mahale Mountains National Park – The Ultimate Chimpanzee Tracking Experience

If you’re looking for a more immersive and wildlife-rich chimpanzee encounter, Mahale Mountains National Park is your best bet. This remote park is home to some of the largest and most habituated chimpanzee populations in Tanzania, with more frequent and longer-lasting sightings compared to Gombe.

Mahale’s lush landscape is a mix of miombo woodland, lowland Kasoge forest, and montane rainforest, supporting a rich diversity of plant and animal life. Trekking here is more adventurous and usually involves hiking through mountainous terrain, but the reward is a more intimate and unforgettable chimpanzee experience.

Best Time of Year for Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania

Chimpanzees can be seen year-round in Tanzania, but the best time to go depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for:

• Rainy season (November to mid-May): This is when chimp sightings are most consistent. The lush green vegetation also makes for incredible scenery and a classic tropical forest atmosphere.

• Dry season (May to October): Trails are easier to navigate during this period, and the dry weather offers ideal conditions for photography and extended hikes.

Where to Stay – Lodges in Mahale Mountains National Park

Accommodation in Mahale ranges from comfortable budget stays to high-end luxury camps, giving you the flexibility to tailor your trip based on your preferences and budget. Top lodge options in Mahale include:

• Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge – A luxury camp with direct access to the beach and forest

• Greystoke Mahale Camp – Famous for its unique architecture and immersive wilderness setting

• Kungwe Beach Lodge – A mid-range option with stunning lake views and good access to trekking trails

Where to Stay – Lodges in Gombe National Park

Despite its remote location, Gombe offers several great places to stay while tracking chimpanzees. Accommodation options include:

• Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge – An eco-friendly lodge with breathtaking views of Lake Tanganyika

• Gombe Forest Lodge – A well-established and comfortable mid-range camp

• Muzye Lodge and Mlukoyoyo Guest House – Budget-friendly options for more independent travelers

Tanzania Visa and Work Permit Information: What You Need to Know Before You Travel

Planning a trip to Tanzania? You’ll need to obtain a tourist visa before or upon arrival. While many travelers prefer to arrange their visa in advance through the Tanzanian embassy in their home country, it’s also very straightforward to get one at the airport or other entry points in Tanzania. The visa fee is USD 100, and in most cases, it’s issued immediately at immigration.

Additional entry requirements may include proof of a yellow fever vaccination (especially if you’re arriving from a country where yellow fever is present). Entry requirements, customs regulations, and work permit rules are subject to change, so we recommend checking with your local Tanzanian embassy or reaching out to us for up-to-date information before you travel.

Vehicle Hire Services in Tanzania: Comfortable and Reliable Safari Transport

When exploring Tanzania’s national parks and remote regions, reliable transport is essential. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we arrange transport based on your itinerary, destination, group size, and budget.

We highly recommend hiring a customized 4×4 Land Cruiser, ideal for rough park terrain and longer drives. These are available from USD 200–250 per day (including driver and fixer). Alternatively, 4×4 safari vans are available from USD 200 per day with a driver, ideal for more budget-conscious trips or shorter distances.

For accurate fuel estimates, we’ll assess your full itinerary to calculate mileage and travel distance. Let us know your preferred destinations, and we’ll provide a tailored quote and suggestions for the best vehicle based on road conditions.

When Is the Best Time to See Chimpanzees in Tanzania?

Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania is possible year-round, but certain months offer better wildlife visibility and more comfortable trekking conditions. The best time to see chimpanzees is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to October. These months provide clearer trails and higher chances of spotting chimpanzees in the forest.

The wet seasons—from March to May and November—bring lush greenery and fewer tourists, but the trails may be muddy and more challenging to hike. No matter when you visit, Tanzania offers rewarding chimpanzee encounters in both Gombe and Mahale Mountains National Parks.

Why Book Your Chimpanzee Safari in Tanzania with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unforgettable, sustainable safari experiences across Tanzania and East Africa. Our team is passionate about conservation, community empowerment, and offering personalized service from planning to execution.

We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and known for our commitment to eco-tourism, professionalism, and deep knowledge of East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re interested in chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 game drives, mountain hiking, or cultural tours, we ensure every safari is crafted with care and impact.

We also offer multi-country safari extensions to Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia, allowing you to experience the best of Africa on one seamless trip. Let us help you plan the perfect itinerary to see chimpanzees in Tanzania, combining comfort, adventure, and responsible tourism.