Gombe National Park
Overview
Gombe National Park, a slender strip of ancient forest nestled against the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is an exceptional destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Established in 1968, this park covers 35 square kilometers of protected land, featuring steep valleys and swift streams that create a stunning natural environment. Altan Adventure Safaris invites you to explore this unique park and experience its breathtaking beauty firsthand.
Major Attractions
The main attraction at Gombe National Park is undoubtedly the chimpanzees, famously studied by Jane Goodall since 1960. These chimpanzees are among the most closely and continuously studied populations in the world, offering visitors a rare and intimate look at our closest animal relatives, sharing over 98 percent of our genes.
Visitors with Altan Adventure Safaris can enjoy various activities, including:
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Guided hikes into the forest to observe the renowned Kasakela chimpanzee community.
- Hiking: Traverse the park’s rugged terrain, characterized by steep ridges and valleys.
- Waterfall Visits: Discover the park’s picturesque waterfalls, set amidst lush greenery.
- Guided Walks: Stroll along the lakeshore or through the forest, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and bird species.
Wildlife
While the chimpanzees are the main draw, Gombe National Park is also home to a rich variety of other primates, such as red-tailed and blue monkeys, which occasionally hybridize in the area. Additionally, you can encounter beachcomber olive baboons, red colobus, vervet monkeys, and more than 200 bird species. With Altan Adventure Safaris, you might also spot bushpigs, various snake species, and occasionally, hippopotami and African leopards.
Unique Features
The stunning scenery of Gombe is one of its key highlights. The park’s 16 major valleys are filled with swift streams that flow year-round, creating a lush and vibrant ecosystem. This picturesque landscape, combined with its rich biodiversity, makes Gombe a truly unique destination for visitors.
Accessibility
Gombe Stream National Park is accessible only by boat, adding an adventurous element to your visit. This isolation helps preserve the park’s pristine environment and the unique wildlife within its borders. Altan Adventure Safaris ensures that your journey to Gombe is seamless and filled with excitement.
Park Protection
Gombe Stream National Park plays a crucial role in protecting the jungle habitat that supports its diverse primate species. It also continues to support the groundbreaking work initiated by Jane Goodall, which has significantly advanced our understanding of primate behavior. The park’s conservation efforts extend to the protection of around 200 bird species, maintaining the ecological balance and natural beauty of the region.
Altan Adventure Safaris offers you an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, witness incredible wildlife, and explore the rugged beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes. Whether trekking through the forest, observing chimpanzees, or enjoying the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, every visit promises an unforgettable adventure.
