In the Footsteps of Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Trekking in Tanzania

Chimpanzee trekking involves hiking through protected forests with experienced guides and trackers to locate wild chimpanzee communities. Once found, visitors spend time observing their behavior watching them groom, play, communicate, and move through the trees.

Unlike savannah safaris, chimp trekking is active and immersive, offering a raw and personal wildlife encounter that feels both thrilling and humbling.

Tanzania is home to some of the best and least crowded chimpanzee trekking destinations in Africa.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Widely regarded as the premier chimpanzee trekking destination in Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park lies along the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

• Dense rainforest and dramatic mountain scenery

• Large, well-habituated chimpanzee groups

• Remote and exclusive wilderness experience

Mahale offers some of the most natural and emotional chimpanzee encounters on the continent.

Gombe Stream National Park

Made famous by Dr. Jane Goodall, Gombe is one of the most iconic chimpanzee research sites in the world.

• Steep forested valleys overlooking Lake Tanganyika

• Rich chimpanzee history and ongoing research

• Ideal for travelers interested in conservation and primate behavior

Gombe is perfect for those who want to connect wildlife viewing with history and science.

Chimpanzees share over 98% of their DNA with humans, and observing them in the wild feels deeply personal.

You may witness:

• Complex social interactions and family bonds

• Playful juveniles swinging through trees

• Mothers caring for infants

• Vocal communication echoing through the forest

These moments create an emotional connection rarely experienced on traditional safaris.

Fitness Level & Trekking Conditions

Chimpanzee trekking requires a moderate level of fitness. Treks can last from 1 to 4 hours depending on chimp location, terrain, and weather.

Expect:

• Forest trails, steep slopes, and uneven ground

• Humid conditions

• Close but regulated viewing distances

Guides ensure safety while maintaining respectful, low-impact encounters.

• Dry Season (June – October): Easier trekking conditions and higher success rates

• Green Season (November – May): Lush scenery, fewer visitors, and rewarding experiences

Chimpanzees are tracked year-round, making trekking possible throughout the year.

Chimpanzee trekking supports vital conservation and community initiatives. Strict rules limit group sizes and viewing time, ensuring minimal disturbance to the animals.

At JustGo Safaris, we follow responsible tourism practices to:

• Protect chimpanzee habitats

• Support local conservation programs

• Promote ethical wildlife encounters

Every trek contributes to preserving these intelligent primates for future generations.

Combine Chimpanzee Trekking with a Classic Safari

Chimpanzee trekking pairs beautifully with traditional Tanzanian safaris, creating a diverse and unforgettable itinerary:

• Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale or Gombe

• Big Five safaris in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire

• Relaxing beach escape in Zanzibar

This combination offers the perfect balance of forest, savannah, and sea.

Chimpanzee Trekking with JustGo Safaris

At JustGo Safaris, we design chimpanzee trekking adventures with:

• Expert local guides and trackers

• Carefully planned logistics to remote parks

• Small group experiences for exclusivity

• Custom itineraries tailored to your interests and fitness level

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or adventurous traveler, chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania is an experience that will stay with you forever.