Chimpanzee Trekking Safaris in Tanzania Travel Guide 2024 – 2025

Africa is home to four subspecies of chimpanzees, providing incredible chimpanzee trekking safari experiences in Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda for East African travelers. These remarkable primates, however, face threats due to habitat loss in the tropical rainforests of Africa. One subspecies resides in western Tanzania along the shores of the stunning Lake Tanganyika. Tanzania stands out as the most biodiverse region in Africa, boasting 27 primate species, a third of which are exclusive to this natural habitat.


Among these primates, the chestnut kipunji, a tree-dwelling species with distinctive furry sideburns resembling poodle ears, holds the status of the most vulnerable. Discovered in 2003 on Mount Rungwe in Jozani Forest, this primate belongs to an entirely new genus. Other common sightings include colobus monkeys, featuring black fur with white accents or a striking black-and-white appearance with red highlights. Olive baboons, characterized by dog-faced expressions and raised tails, are frequently encountered on wildlife safari holidays in Tanzania. Additionally, nocturnal round-eyed monkeys often make visits to camps.

For those seeking Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Tanzania, Deks Safaris offers popular excursions in Gombe and Mahale. These locations have been the focus of intensive studies on chimpanzees, humanity’s closest living genetic relatives, sharing 95-98% of DNA. Despite these genetic similarities, the differences between apes and humans are profound, akin to constructing very distinct structures using the same blocks of DNA—a comparison between a brick wall and a palace.

Where to go for Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania?


Adhering to stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding the well-being of over 100 resident chimpanzees, susceptible to human infections, individuals aged 15 and above can observe community interactions of the chimpanzees for up to an hour each day during a Gombe Chimpanzee trekking and walking safaris tour in Tanzania. The Mahale Mountains National Park, serving as a larger and more rugged primate wilderness, is another prime location for chimpanzee trekking safaris in Tanzania, housing over 800 chimpanzees and various other primates.

While only one chimpanzee group is accustomed to human presence, the others remain quite reserved. The initial encounter, following the ascent of steep mountain trails to locate them, is typically heralded by a symphony of calls from the treetops. Subsequently, visitors may witness a social group engaging in various activities, such as playing, nursing their offspring, and interacting in a coherent manner, with cleaning rituals visible from a distance of at least 10 meters.

Chimpanzees have also been reintroduced to Rubondo Island in Lake Victoria, northern Tanzania, though they tend to be elusive. Deks Safaris orchestrates exceptional safaris dedicated to trekking chimpanzees, offering options ranging from deluxe to luxurious experiences. These safaris can be seamlessly combined with stays at idyllic beach and mountain resorts, allowing you to tailor your East African holiday for the ultimate experience.

  1. Gombe Stream National Park
  2. Mahale Mountains National Park

Chimpanzee Tracking in Gombe Stream National Park


Gombe Stream National Park is renowned for its association with the pioneering research conducted by Dr. Jane Goodall on wild chimpanzees. It is one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania, covering an area of about 56 square kilometers. Gombe Stream National Park is located in the western part of Tanzania, along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

It is situated about 16 kilometers north of the town of Kigoma. The park is typically accessed by boat from Kigoma. The boat ride across Lake Tanganyika provides a scenic approach to the park.

Gombe Stream is renowned for its population of wild chimpanzees, which have been studied extensively by researchers. Visitors can engage in guided Tanzania chimpanzee trekking to observe and learn about these primates in their natural habitat.

Before planning a visit to Gombe Stream National Park, it’s essential to check with Deks Tours for the latest information on permits, regulations, and any updates related to tourism in the area. Conservation efforts and tourism practices can change, and staying informed ensures a responsible and enjoyable experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Mahale Mountains National Park


Mahale Mountains National Park is another significant destination in Tanzania known for its population of wild chimpanzees. Similar to Gombe Stream, Mahale Mountains is typically accessed by boat, often from the town of Kigoma.

The boat journey across Lake Tanganyika offers stunning views and is part of the adventure of reaching the park. Mahale Mountains is home to a significant population of wild chimpanzees. Visitors to the park can participate in Tanzania guided chimpanzee trekking activities, allowing them to observe and learn about the behavior and social dynamics of these primates.

Before planning a visit to Mahale Mountains National Park, it’s essential to check with Deks Tours for the latest information on permits, regulations, and any updates related to tourism in the area. As with any wildlife destination, responsible and informed tourism practices are crucial for the well-being of the environment and its inhabitants.

When to Go for Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania?


The best time to go chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania, particularly in parks like Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains, is during the dry season. The dry season provides more favorable conditions for trekking, as the trails are usually more accessible, and chimpanzees are easier to locate due to reduced vegetation and availability of water sources.

The dry season in Tanzania typically occurs from June to October.

  1. June to October (Dry Season)
  2. November to May (Wet Season)

It’s important to note that chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania is possible throughout the year, but the dry season is generally recommended for the best overall experience. Additionally, it’s advisable to check with Deks Tours for specific details on chimpanzee behavior, trail conditions, and any other considerations that may affect your trekking experience.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience (Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains)


Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania offers a unique and enriching wildlife experience. Two of the primary destinations for chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania are Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park.

Gombe Stream is known for its long-term research on wild chimpanzees by Dr. Jane Goodall. Guided chimpanzee trekking excursions are a highlight of a visit to the park. Experienced guides take visitors on treks to observe and learn about the behavior of habituated chimpanzee groups.

Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania offers a rare opportunity to connect with these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, providing a memorable and educational experience for nature enthusiasts.

Rules and Regulations for Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania

When engaging in chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania, it’s crucial to adhere to rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife, as well as to contribute to conservation efforts. While specific rules may vary depending on the national park or reserve.

Before your trip, check with the Tanzanian National Parks Authority or the specific park management for the most up-to-date rules and regulations. Conservation practices and guidelines can evolve, and staying informed ensures a responsible and enjoyable chimpanzee trekking experience in Tanzania.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania

Africa Chimpanzee Tracking Safaris

Here Are Some General Guidelines That Are Typically Applicable

  1. Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania is only allowed for individuals aged 15 and above.
  2. It is prohibited for visitors to consume food, smoke, or drink in close proximity to chimpanzees.
  3. Flash photography is not permitted; tourists must ensure their camera flashes are always turned off when capturing images of the chimpanzees.
  4. In the forest, it is essential to refrain from leaving any trash behind. Dispose of your waste by placing it in the designated trash cans located in the park administrative building.
  5. If unwell, individuals are not allowed to trek with chimpanzees, as human diseases pose a risk of infecting the primates.
  6. Tourists must adhere to the guidelines provided during the briefing and follow the instructions of the trekking guides.
  7. Maintain a distance of at least 8 meters from the chimpanzees at all times to prevent them from feeling crowded or surrounded.
  8. When in the presence of chimpanzees, speak in a quiet voice at all times, as loud noises can agitate the primates.

What You Need for Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania?

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Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania requires careful preparation to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and responsible experience. Before your trip, check with Deks Tours for any specific requirements or recommendations based on the current conditions in the area. Being well-prepared ensures that you can fully enjoy the incredible experience of chimpanzee trekking while minimizing your impact on the environment.

  1. Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
  2. Appropriate Clothing
  3. Sturdy Trekking Shoes
  4. Rain Gear
  5. Daypack
  6. Water and Snacks
  7. Sun Protection
  8. Insect Repellent
  9. Camera with Zoom Lens
  10. Binoculars
  11. Health Considerations
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