The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera.
AREA
8,292 km2 (3,202 sq ml)
VISITORS
Over 500,000 per year
LOCATION
Northern Tanzania
Gombe National Park
Gombe National Park, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, is one of the smallest national parks in the country, covering just 52 square kilometers (20 square miles). Despite its size, it holds global significance as a research site for primates, particularly chimpanzees, thanks to the pioneering work of Dr. Jane Goodall. Gombe is characterized by steep valleys, thick forests, and a scenic lakeshore, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and insight into primate behavior.
Dry and Wet Seasons
Dry Season (June to October): The dry season offers the best chimpanzee trekking opportunities, as vegetation is less dense and sightings are more frequent. Trails are easier to navigate, and the weather is pleasant for hiking.
Wet Season (November to May): The park’s forest comes alive with lush greenery and vibrant plant life, offering a different, more tropical feel. Chimpanzee sightings can be more challenging, but birdwatching is excellent, with migratory species arriving and vibrant butterflies filling the air.
Wildlife
While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe National Park is also home to other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and colobus monkeys. The park’s dense forest habitat supports a variety of other wildlife, such as bushpigs and small antelope, though sightings are rare. Gombe’s birdlife is diverse, featuring species like African fish eagles, palm-nut vultures, and tropical boubous, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Key Attractions
Chimpanzee Trekking
Gombe’s primary attraction is its chimpanzee population, where visitors can observe these incredible primates up close in their natural habitat.
Lake Tanganyika
The crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, the second-deepest lake in the world, provide opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
Kakombe Waterfall:
A scenic waterfall that offers a peaceful break from trekking and a great spot for photos.
Wildlife Highlights
- Chimpanzees: The primary attraction, with treks offering a rare opportunity to observe their behavior up close.
- Other Primates: Olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and colobus monkeys add to the park’s primate diversity.
- Bird Species: Home to vibrant birdlife, including African fish eagles and tropical boubous, especially abundant during the wet season.
Safari Activities
Chimpanzee Trekking
Guided treks take visitors deep into the forest to observe chimpanzees in their natural setting, providing a unique and educational experience.
Birdwatching
With numerous bird species, birdwatching is especially rewarding during the wet season.
Lake Activities
- Lake Tanganyika’s clear waters allow for swimming and snorkeling, where visitors can explore the lake’s colorful fish species.
Hiking
- Gombe’s trails, such as the one to Kakombe Waterfall, offer scenic hikes through the forest.
Best hotels and lodges in the Ngorongoro
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to a variety of luxurious lodges, eco-friendly camps, and mid-range accommodations that provide comfortable stays and breathtaking views. Here are some of the best options:
