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Gombe NP

Overview

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting There

Malaria & Safety

Overview – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to witness chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This iconic park, made famous by the pioneering work of Jane Goodall, is home to a habituated chimpanzee population.

Experience the wonder of watching these intelligent primates as they swing through the lush forest canopy, forage for food, and interact with each other. Gombe National Park offers an unparalleled chance to connect with nature and gain insights into the behavior and social structure of our closest relatives.
Gombe national park (4)
Best Time To Go
July to October (Best time to find chimps)
High Season
July to October (Gombe never gets crowded)
Size
52km² / 20mi²
Altitude
767-1,606m / 2,516-5,269ft
Pros & Cons
Encounter Chimpanzees: Experience the thrill of tracking chimpanzees through lush forests.
Pristine Natural Beauty: Explore the stunning landscapes of Gombe, bordering the magnificent Lake Tanganyika.
Unique Safari Style: Enjoy hiking safaris for a more immersive wildlife experience.
Exclusive and Uncrowded: Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
Remote Location: Gombe's remote location offers a truly authentic safari experience.
Limited Accommodation: Book in advance to secure your stay in this exclusive park.
Wildlife
Gombe National Park, situated along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Scenery
Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake. The park’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide a refreshing escape. Take a swim in the lake and admire the breathtaking views of the forested escarpment rising from the Rift Valley.
Weather & Climate
Gombe National Park offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Best Time To Visit
The Dry Season, from July to October, is the ideal time to visit Gombe National Park. During these months, chimpanzees tend to move to lower elevations, making them easier to track. The dry conditions also make hiking more comfortable and enjoyable.

While the Wet Season (November to April) offers lush greenery and diverse birdlife, the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather can make chimpanzee tracking more difficult. However, for those seeking a more immersive experience, the Wet Season can be a rewarding time to visit.
​Wildlife & Animals – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park offers a truly unique opportunity to track chimpanzees on foot. The park is home to approximately 100 chimpanzees, divided into several social groups. You may even have the chance to observe the same group that Jane Goodall studied decades ago.

 

Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll spend an hour watching their fascinating behaviors, such as foraging, grooming, or simply relaxing. This intimate encounter with these intelligent primates is a truly unforgettable experience.

Chimpanzee
Cheetah
Leopard
Lion
Gorilla
Black Rhino
White Rhino
Giraffe
Elephant
Wildebeest
Zebra
Hippo
Wildlife Highlights

Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural world and witness the wonders of chimpanzee behavior. This pristine park, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, allows visitors to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates up close. In addition to chimpanzees, Gombe is home to various other wildlife, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the elusive Ugandan red colobus monkey. Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination with its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The ideal time to embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Gombe National Park is during the Dry Season, from July to October. During these months, chimpanzees tend to stay at lower altitudes, making them easier to track. The dry conditions also create favorable conditions for hiking through the forest. While Gombe can be visited year-round, the Wet Season (November to April) can make trekking more challenging due to muddy trails and unpredictable weather.

Wildlife Photos
Gombe national park (1)
​Birds – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 287 bird species. While the forest’s dense canopy can make birdwatching challenging, the lakeside area offers excellent opportunities to spot a variety of birds, including African fish eagles and palm-nut vultures. From November to April, the park welcomes migratory birds, further enriching its avian diversity.

Notable Birds in Gombe NP

Palm-nut vulture
Common
African fish eagle
Common
Schalow’s turaco
Common
African paradise flycatcher
Common
Peters’s twinspot
Common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Gombe National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially from November to April when migratory birds arrive. The park’s diverse habitats offer opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including colorful sunbirds and majestic eagles.

For the best chimpanzee trekking experience, visit between July and October, when the dry weather makes hiking easier and chimpanzees are more active.

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Gombe National Park offers chimpanzee tracking year-round. However, the Dry Season (July-October) is the optimal time for sightings as chimpanzees tend to stay at lower altitudes. During the Wet Season (November-April), tracking can be more challenging due to rain and muddy trails. Please note that the park’s sole private lodge is closed from March to May.
Best Time
July to October is the best period to spot chimpanzees.
High Season
July to October is ideal for spotting chimps, and Gombe remains uncrowded throughout the year.
Low Season
November to mid-December and March to May are notable periods, though it's important to note the only private lodge in the park is closed from March to May.
Best Weather
June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Worst Weather
November to April (Wet season)
May to October – Dry Season
Tracking chimpanzees is easiest from July to October.
There's plenty of sunshine and it rarely rains.
With fewer mosquitoes, there's a lower risk of malaria.
You may encounter other visitors tracking chimps, but the park never becomes overly crowded.
November to April – Wet Season
Fresh air: The atmosphere is clear and devoid of any haze.
The arrival of migratory birds enhances the bird watching experience.
There's a rich abundance of butterflies.
The forest paths may be challenging and slick to navigate.
Finding chimpanzees could be challenging as they migrate away from the lake.
It gets very hot and humid
Wildlife Photos
Gombe national park (1)
Weather & Climate – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates up close. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Dry Season – May to October

Gombe National Park has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

 

Dry Season (May-October): This is the ideal time to visit Gombe, with warm, dry days and cool nights. The clear skies and reduced rainfall make it easier to spot wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities.

 

Wet Season (November-April): While the park is still accessible during this period, the rainy conditions can make trekking more challenging and limit visibility. However, the lush greenery and diverse birdlife make it a rewarding time to visit for nature enthusiasts.

Wet Season – November to April

The Wet Season in Gombe National Park brings warm, humid days with occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures typically range from 27°C (81°F) during the day to 17°C (63°F) at night. While the rain can make hiking trails muddy, it also creates lush vegetation and attracts a variety of birdlife.

Gombe National Park
Gombe NP Photos
Gombe national park (4)
​Getting There – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

To reach Gombe National Park, you’ll typically fly to either Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). From there, you’ll take a domestic flight to Kigoma Airport (TKQ). The final leg of your journey involves a scenic boat ride across Lake Tanganyika to the park.

 

Your Bush 2 City Adventure consultant will handle all the logistics, including domestic flight bookings, airport transfers, and private boat transfers.

We recommend you speak with your consultant to arrange for you a trip with Gombe Gorilla Trekking Experience to simplify travel logistics.
Main Park Map
gombe map bush2city (1)
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from SĂ£o Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

Domestic Flights

Typically, we include charter flights as part of the tour package for Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park. However, for those seeking additional adventure options, we arrange scheduled domestic flights to Kigoma with Air Tanzania.

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

Please refer to our “Tanzania” page for detailed information regarding passport, visa, and other entry requirements.

​Malaria & Safety – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

Gombe National Park is a safe destination, especially considering its remote location and accessibility by boat. While taking standard safety precautions in urban areas is advisable, Gombe itself offers a secure environment.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Before your trip to Gombe National Park, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss necessary vaccinations and antimalarial medication.

 

To protect yourself from malaria, take these precautions:

 

Mosquito Repellent: Use a strong DEET-based repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.

 

Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks in the evenings.

 

Antimalarial Medication: Follow your doctor’s advice on the appropriate antimalarial medication.

Wildlife Viewing

Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park is a safe and rewarding experience. Your guide will provide safety instructions before and during the trek. By following these guidelines and respecting the chimps’ space, you can ensure a safe and unforgettable encounter.

Overview – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to witness chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This iconic park, made famous by the pioneering work of Jane Goodall, is home to a habituated chimpanzee population.

Experience the wonder of watching these intelligent primates as they swing through the lush forest canopy, forage for food, and interact with each other. Gombe National Park offers an unparalleled chance to connect with nature and gain insights into the behavior and social structure of our closest relatives.
Gombe national park (4)
Best Time To Go
July to October (Best time to find chimps)
High Season
July to October (Gombe never gets crowded)
Size
52km² / 20mi²
Altitude
767-1,606m / 2,516-5,269ft
Pros & Cons
Encounter Chimpanzees: Experience the thrill of tracking chimpanzees through lush forests.
Pristine Natural Beauty: Explore the stunning landscapes of Gombe, bordering the magnificent Lake Tanganyika.
Unique Safari Style: Enjoy hiking safaris for a more immersive wildlife experience.
Exclusive and Uncrowded: Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
Remote Location: Gombe's remote location offers a truly authentic safari experience.
Limited Accommodation: Book in advance to secure your stay in this exclusive park.
Wildlife
Gombe National Park, situated along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Scenery
Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake. The park’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide a refreshing escape. Take a swim in the lake and admire the breathtaking views of the forested escarpment rising from the Rift Valley.
Weather & Climate
Gombe National Park offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Best Time To Visit
The Dry Season, from July to October, is the ideal time to visit Gombe National Park. During these months, chimpanzees tend to move to lower elevations, making them easier to track. The dry conditions also make hiking more comfortable and enjoyable.

While the Wet Season (November to April) offers lush greenery and diverse birdlife, the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather can make chimpanzee tracking more difficult. However, for those seeking a more immersive experience, the Wet Season can be a rewarding time to visit.
​Wildlife & Animals – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park offers a truly unique opportunity to track chimpanzees on foot. The park is home to approximately 100 chimpanzees, divided into several social groups. You may even have the chance to observe the same group that Jane Goodall studied decades ago.

 

Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll spend an hour watching their fascinating behaviors, such as foraging, grooming, or simply relaxing. This intimate encounter with these intelligent primates is a truly unforgettable experience.

Chimpanzee
Cheetah
Leopard
Lion
Gorilla
Black Rhino
White Rhino
Giraffe
Elephant
Wildebeest
Zebra
Hippo
Wildlife Highlights

Gombe National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural world and witness the wonders of chimpanzee behavior. This pristine park, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, allows visitors to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates up close. In addition to chimpanzees, Gombe is home to various other wildlife, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the elusive Ugandan red colobus monkey. Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination with its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The ideal time to embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Gombe National Park is during the Dry Season, from July to October. During these months, chimpanzees tend to stay at lower altitudes, making them easier to track. The dry conditions also create favorable conditions for hiking through the forest. While Gombe can be visited year-round, the Wet Season (November to April) can make trekking more challenging due to muddy trails and unpredictable weather.

Wildlife Photos
Gombe national park (1)
​Birds – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 287 bird species. While the forest’s dense canopy can make birdwatching challenging, the lakeside area offers excellent opportunities to spot a variety of birds, including African fish eagles and palm-nut vultures. From November to April, the park welcomes migratory birds, further enriching its avian diversity.

Notable Birds in Gombe NP

Palm-nut vulture
Common
African fish eagle
Common
Schalow’s turaco
Common
African paradise flycatcher
Common
Peters’s twinspot
Common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Gombe National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially from November to April when migratory birds arrive. The park’s diverse habitats offer opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including colorful sunbirds and majestic eagles.

For the best chimpanzee trekking experience, visit between July and October, when the dry weather makes hiking easier and chimpanzees are more active.

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Gombe National Park offers chimpanzee tracking year-round. However, the Dry Season (July-October) is the optimal time for sightings as chimpanzees tend to stay at lower altitudes. During the Wet Season (November-April), tracking can be more challenging due to rain and muddy trails. Please note that the park’s sole private lodge is closed from March to May.
Best Time
July to October is the best period to spot chimpanzees.
High Season
July to October is ideal for spotting chimps, and Gombe remains uncrowded throughout the year.
Low Season
November to mid-December and March to May are notable periods, though it's important to note the only private lodge in the park is closed from March to May.
Best Weather
June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Worst Weather
November to April (Wet season)
May to October – Dry Season
Tracking chimpanzees is easiest from July to October.
There's plenty of sunshine and it rarely rains.
With fewer mosquitoes, there's a lower risk of malaria.
You may encounter other visitors tracking chimps, but the park never becomes overly crowded.
November to April – Wet Season
Fresh air: The atmosphere is clear and devoid of any haze.
The arrival of migratory birds enhances the bird watching experience.
There's a rich abundance of butterflies.
The forest paths may be challenging and slick to navigate.
Finding chimpanzees could be challenging as they migrate away from the lake.
It gets very hot and humid
Wildlife Photos
Gombe national park (1)
Weather & Climate – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Gombe National Park offers a unique and immersive safari experience. This pristine park, renowned for its chimpanzee research, provides visitors with the opportunity to trek through lush forests and encounter these intelligent primates up close. The park’s diverse ecosystem also supports a variety of other wildlife, including olive baboons and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Gombe National Park is a truly unforgettable destination.
Dry Season – May to October

Gombe National Park has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

 

Dry Season (May-October): This is the ideal time to visit Gombe, with warm, dry days and cool nights. The clear skies and reduced rainfall make it easier to spot wildlife and enjoy outdoor activities.

 

Wet Season (November-April): While the park is still accessible during this period, the rainy conditions can make trekking more challenging and limit visibility. However, the lush greenery and diverse birdlife make it a rewarding time to visit for nature enthusiasts.

Wet Season – November to April

The Wet Season in Gombe National Park brings warm, humid days with occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures typically range from 27°C (81°F) during the day to 17°C (63°F) at night. While the rain can make hiking trails muddy, it also creates lush vegetation and attracts a variety of birdlife.

Gombe National Park
Gombe NP Photos
Gombe national park (4)
​Getting There – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

To reach Gombe National Park, you’ll typically fly to either Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). From there, you’ll take a domestic flight to Kigoma Airport (TKQ). The final leg of your journey involves a scenic boat ride across Lake Tanganyika to the park.

 

Your Bush 2 City Adventure consultant will handle all the logistics, including domestic flight bookings, airport transfers, and private boat transfers.

We recommend you speak with your consultant to arrange for you a trip with Gombe Gorilla Trekking Experience to simplify travel logistics.
Main Park Map
gombe map bush2city (1)
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from SĂ£o Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

Domestic Flights

Typically, we include charter flights as part of the tour package for Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park. However, for those seeking additional adventure options, we arrange scheduled domestic flights to Kigoma with Air Tanzania.

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

Please refer to our “Tanzania” page for detailed information regarding passport, visa, and other entry requirements.

​Malaria & Safety – Gombe NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

Gombe National Park is a safe destination, especially considering its remote location and accessibility by boat. While taking standard safety precautions in urban areas is advisable, Gombe itself offers a secure environment.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Before your trip to Gombe National Park, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss necessary vaccinations and antimalarial medication.

 

To protect yourself from malaria, take these precautions:

 

Mosquito Repellent: Use a strong DEET-based repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.

 

Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks in the evenings.

 

Antimalarial Medication: Follow your doctor’s advice on the appropriate antimalarial medication.

Wildlife Viewing

Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park is a safe and rewarding experience. Your guide will provide safety instructions before and during the trek. By following these guidelines and respecting the chimps’ space, you can ensure a safe and unforgettable encounter.

Explore Gombe National Park Safari Tours

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Photo Gallery of Gombe National Park

Map of Gombe National Park

Photo Gallery of Gombe National Park

Main Park Map

General Travel Safety Precautions

Embarking on an African safari promises an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the continent’s rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While safaris are widely considered safe, especially those organized through reputable tour operators, it’s prudent to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Here are some essential safety tips to consider:

Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Traveling through Africa offers an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. While it’s generally safe, especially on organized tours or safaris, navigating urban environments requires a bit of savvy to ensure your trip remains worry-free. Here are some straightforward tips to keep in mind, whether you’re exploring bustling metropolises or serene landscapes:

Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Exploring the wild through a safari adventure is an exhilarating experience that brings you closer to nature’s most fascinating wildlife. Whether you opt for a guided tour with an experienced professional or decide to navigate the trails on a self-drive journey, safety is paramount to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free adventure. Here are some essential safety guidelines and tips to help you navigate your safari safely:

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