Day 1; Arriving in Tanzania. Kigoma
When you arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport, in Dar es Salaam you’ll catch a connecting flight to Kigoma, a town located on the shore of Lake Tanganyika. Once you reach Kigoma you’ll be taken to your hotel for check in. Take the remainder of the day to unwind. Get used to the surroundings. Enjoy a dinner. Spend the night in Kigoma.
Day 2; Transfer to Mahale Mountains National Park
After having breakfast you’ll begin on a boat transfer from Kigoma to Mahale Mountains National Park. The boat ride on Lake Tanganyika offers views of its crystal waters and the stunning landscapes that surround it. Upon reaching Mahale, park rangers and staff will warmly welcome you. Check into your lodge situated along the lakes shores. Relish a lunch.
During the afternoon feel free to take a nature walk around the lodge explore the area or simply unwind on the beach. In the evening indulge in a dinner at the lodge as you prepare for a chimpanzee trekking experience awaiting you tomorrow.
Day 3 – 4; Chimpanzee Trekking, in Mahale Mountains
These two days are dedicated to one of the safaris highlights. Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains.
Start your day with a breakfast. Join experienced guides and trackers for an exciting adventure, in search of habituated chimpanzee groups. As you trek through the forest take in the mesmerizing sounds of nature. Keep a keen eye out for other fascinating wildlife species.
Once you locate the chimpanzee group prepare to be amazed as you spend an awe inspiring hour in their presence. Observe their interactions, behaviors and perhaps even witness their impressive displays. Your knowledgeable guide will offer insights into their behavior. Emphasize the importance of conservation efforts. After the trek head back to the lodge for a lunch and some deserved relaxation.
In the afternoon indulge in activities such as birdwatching begining on boat safaris on Lake Tanganyika or exploring hiking trails. Mahale Mountains National Park is home to an array of wildlife including colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and numerous bird species. Wrap up your day with a dinner at the lodge before settling in for an overnight stay.
Day 5; tour to Gombe Stream National Park
After enjoying breakfast bid farewell to Mahale Mountains National Park as you begin on a boat transfer towards Gombe Stream National Park. This boat ride along Lake Tanganyikas shores offers views and provides opportunities to spot fascinating wildlife such, as hippos and crocodiles.
Upon your arrival, at Gombe Stream, the friendly park rangers and staff will warmly welcome you. You’ll check into your accommodation nestled amidst the forest. Take some time to unwind and enjoy a lunch.
In the afternoon get ready for a chimpanzee trek in Gombe Stream. Accompanied by a guide you’ll follow trails through the forest. Your goal is to locate the chimpanzee group and spend moments observing them in their habitat. Witness their behaviors. Gain insights into their social dynamics. As evening approaches head back to the lodge for a dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Days 6 – 7; Exploring Chimpanzees in Gombe Stream
These two days are dedicated to exploring the chimpanzees of Gombe Stream National Park. After breakfast each day you’ll begin on treks in search of habituated chimpanzee groups. Gombe Streams renowned long term research on chimpanzees conducted by Jane Goodall has made it an exceptional destination for enthusiasts like yourself.
Apart from chimpanzees Gombe Stream is also home to wildlife such as red colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys and various bird species. During your treks you may even have opportunities to explore parts of the park visit waterfalls or bask in breathtaking panoramic views, from viewpoints.
After enjoying your morning activities head back, to the lodge for a lunch. In the afternoons take some time to unwind or participate in activities like taking a swim in the beautiful lake or going on guided nature walks. You’ll then have dinner. Spend the night at the lodge.
Day 8; End Of Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Tanzania
On Day 8 it’s time to say goodbye to Gombe Stream National Park. After breakfast you’ll board a boat for a transfer to Kigoma. Once you arrive in Kigoma you’ll be assisted with your transfer to the airport where you can catch your flight to Dar, es Salaam or any other destination of your choice. This marks the end of your chimpanzee trekking safari in Tanzania.
Please keep in mind that this itinerary is an example and can be tailored according to your preferences, budget and availability of accommodation and permits.
