Tanzania is one of East Africa’s most diverse travel destinations, celebrated for its vast wildlife reserves, pristine Indian Ocean beaches, the spectacular Lake Tanganyika, iconic archaeological sites like Olduvai Gorge, and Africa’s highest mountain — Mount Kilimanjaro. While many travelers associate Tanzania with safari experiences in Serengeti National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater, another extraordinary adventure awaits deep within its western forests: chimpanzee trekking.
Although chimpanzee trekking is often linked with Uganda and Rwanda, Tanzania offers equally rewarding and less crowded encounters with these fascinating primates. This guide by Moshar Tours explores where to see chimpanzees in Tanzania, trekking costs, the best time to visit, and essential travel tips.
Chimpanzee trekking has become increasingly popular among travelers seeking experiences beyond traditional game drives. Unlike safaris viewed from vehicles, chimpanzee trekking involves hiking through tropical forests to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
These intelligent primates share many behavioral similarities with humans, making encounters deeply personal and memorable. Tanzania’s remote trekking locations provide authentic wilderness experiences with fewer crowds compared to other destinations.
The second chimpanzee trekking destination is Mahale Mountains National Park, established in 1985 and home to more than 800 chimpanzees.
This expansive park covers approximately 1,613 square kilometers and is characterized by lush tropical rainforest, bamboo vegetation, and scenic mountain landscapes bordering Lake Tanganyika.
Besides chimpanzees, visitors may encounter:
A valid chimpanzee trekking permit is required before visiting either park. Permit fees vary depending on the destination:
Gombe Stream National Park: USD 100 per person
Mahale Mountains National Park: USD 150 per person
The minimum age requirement for chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania is 15 years.
Trekking Guidelines
During the pre-trek briefing, visitors must follow conservation rules such as:
Staying with the assigned trekking group
Maintaining at least 7 meters distance from chimpanzees
Avoiding direct eye contact, which may be perceived as aggression
Following instructions from park guides at all times
These regulations help protect both visitors and the chimpanzees.
A chimpanzee trekking safari with Moshar Tours includes opportunities to enjoy additional activities around Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding forests:
Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania offers a rare opportunity to observe one of humanity’s closest relatives in untouched wilderness. From the historic forests of Gombe to the remote beauty of the Mahale Mountains, this experience combines adventure, conservation, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Moshar Tours organizes personalized chimpanzee trekking safaris designed to provide authentic, responsible, and memorable journeys into Tanzania’s wild landscapes.
