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The Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Tanzania is located within Gombe Stream National Park, near Kigoma, along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika. Established in 1968, the sanctuary gained global recognition due to the groundbreaking research conducted by Dr. Jane Goodall on wild chimpanzees. Today, it serves as a critical conservation area, protecting orphaned and rescued chimpanzees while offering visitors an unforgettable experience of observing these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
Situated in Kigoma, Tanzania, Gombe Stream National Park is one of the smallest yet most significant national parks in Africa. The sanctuary is accessible via:
Flight: The nearest airport is Kigoma Airport, with flights from Dar es Salaam and other major Tanzanian cities.
Boat: A boat ride from Kigoma town to the sanctuary takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Road: Limited road access is available, but most visitors prefer boat transport for a scenic journey across Lake Tanganyika.
The sanctuary is primarily dedicated to the protection of chimpanzees, but visitors can also encounter a variety of other wildlife species, including:
Chimpanzees – Over 100 chimpanzees inhabit the park, with some groups habituated for human observation.
Olive baboons and vervet monkeys
Colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys
Forest antelopes, including duikers
Over 200 bird species, including fish eagles, palm-nut vultures, and kingfishers
Aquatic species in Lake Tanganyika, such as hippos and crocodiles
The sanctuary is open year-round, but the best time for chimpanzee tracking is during the dry season (June to October) when trails are more accessible, and the chimps are easier to spot. The wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and a rich variety of birdlife but can make trekking more challenging due to muddy trails.
To ensure the protection of wildlife and visitor safety, the following rules must be followed:
Maintain a safe distance – At least 10 meters (30 feet) from chimpanzees to prevent disease transmission.
No direct eye contact – This can be seen as a threat by chimpanzees.
Do not feed the animals – Feeding disrupts their natural behaviors.
No flash photography – Flashlights may startle or stress the chimpanzees.
Wear a face mask – Helps prevent disease transmission between humans and chimpanzees.
Follow park rangers’ instructions – All trekking activities are guided by experts.
Group size is limited – Only 6 to 8 people per group to minimize environmental impact.
Children under 15 years old are not allowed on chimpanzee treks.
Entry fees for Gombe Stream National Park and the Chimpanzee Sanctuary are as follows (subject to change):
Non-resident adults: $100 per person
Non-resident children (5-15 years): $50 per child
Tanzanian residents: TZS 20,000 per adult
Tanzanian resident children: TZS 10,000 per child
East African Citizens: TZS 10,000 per adult and TZS 5,000 per child
Chimpanzee trekking permits: $100 per person (separate from entry fees)
In addition to observing chimpanzees, visitors can enjoy:
1. Chimpanzee Trekking – Guided treks through the forest to observe chimps in their natural habitat.
2. Jane Goodall Research Center – Learn about the pioneering work done in Gombe.
3. Bird Watching – Over 200 species, including colorful kingfishers and eagles.
4. Hiking and Nature Walks – Explore the scenic forest trails.
5. Water Activities on Lake Tanganyika – Swimming, fishing, and snorkeling opportunities.
6. Cultural Visits to Kigoma – Experience the history and local life of nearby villages.
To have a comfortable and enjoyable visit, carry the following essentials:
Valid ID or passport – Required for entry permits.
Hiking boots – Essential for trekking through rugged terrain.
Lightweight clothing – Long sleeves and pants to protect against insects.
Binoculars and camera – Great for bird watching and capturing wildlife moments.
Insect repellent – To protect against mosquitoes.
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – For sun protection.
Reusable water bottle – To stay hydrated.
Snacks and packed lunch – Food options in the park are limited.
Face mask – Required when trekking with chimpanzees.
While Gombe is primarily known for chimpanzee trekking, visitors can also opt for other guided safaris and excursions:
Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: $100 per person
Guided Nature Walks: $30 - $50 per person
Boat Safari on Lake Tanganyika: $50 - $100 per boat
Private Guided Tour: $150 - $250 per group
Bird Watching Safari: $40 per person
Yes, senior citizens and children are welcome at the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, but with specific guidelines:
Children under 5 years old – Not allowed in the park.
Children aged 5-15 years – Allowed in the park but not permitted for chimpanzee trekking.
Senior citizens – Encouraged to visit, but those with mobility issues should consult with park authorities before planning strenuous trekking activities.
The Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Tanzania, located in Gombe Stream National Park, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and adventure seekers. With its diverse wildlife, rich history, and stunning natural beauty, this sanctuary remains one of Africa’s most treasured conservation areas. Whether you are interested in chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, or learning about Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research, Gombe provides an immersive and educational experience like no other.
Plan your trip today and witness the incredible world of chimpanzees in Tanzania’s pristine wilderness!
