Experience two of Tanzania's most remarkable chimpanzee destinations on a six-day journey through Gombe National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park, both located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania.
The safari begins in Kigoma, the main gateway to the region. From Kigoma, travel by boat to Gombe National Park, where you will explore the forest and take part in chimpanzee trekking. After your Gombe experience, continue by boat towards Mahale Mountains National Park, where forested mountains rise directly from the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
In Mahale, you will have more opportunities for chimpanzee trekking as well as time to experience the forest, mountains and lake. Depending on weather, park conditions and your interests, additional activities such as kayaking, swimming, boat excursions or forest walks can be arranged.
The journey combines two different chimpanzee habitats with the spectacular scenery of Lake Tanganyika, making it an immersive Western Tanzania experience.
Transport between the destinations is primarily by boat and scheduled or chartered domestic flight connections, depending on the selected itinerary and travel dates. Mahale is remote and has no road access to the park's main lakeshore camps, so access is normally by air followed by boat, while Gombe is commonly accessed by boat from Kigoma. Current published 2026 itineraries show both boat and flight connections being used for this route.
Your journey begins in Kigoma. After breakfast, meet your guide and prepare for your journey to Gombe National Park. Travel by boat across Lake Tanganyika, enjoying views of the lake and surrounding landscapes as you approach Gombe. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and settle into the peaceful forest environment. Depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity for a short nature walk or to relax along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.