Where to Stay When Trekking for Chimpanzees in Tanzania

Where to Stay When Trekking for Chimpanzees in Tanzania

Planning a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Tanzania means not only preparing for the trek itself but also choosing the right place to stay. Since the prime chimpanzee trekking locations—Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park—are in remote and pristine areas, accommodation options are unique and often integral to the overall experience. Whether you prefer rustic campsites or comfortable lodges, here’s a guide to the best places to stay when trekking chimpanzees in Tanzania.

Accommodation Near Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is famous for its chimpanzee research history and proximity to the town of Kigoma. Staying near Gombe offers a mix of basic campsites, midrange lodges, and eco-friendly options.

• Gombe Forest Lodge
  This is the closest lodge to the park, offering simple but comfortable rooms with stunning views over Lake Tanganyika. It’s an excellent base for early morning treks and provides good meals and guided tours.

• Greystoke Mahale (for Mahale guests staying in Kigoma first)
  While primarily a Mahale lodge, some visitors to Gombe choose to stay here in Kigoma for its high standards and comfortable amenities before heading to Gombe.

• Local Guesthouses in Kigoma Town
  Budget travelers may opt for guesthouses or hotels in Kigoma town, about 30 minutes by boat from Gombe. This is less convenient but more affordable.

Best Chimpanzee trekking lodges in mahale mountains

Mahale Mountains is more remote and exclusive than Gombe, and so are the lodging options. Most accommodations are eco-lodges or tented camps focused on sustainability and nature immersion.

• Greystoke Mahale
  This is the flagship lodge in Mahale, offering luxury tented accommodation with spectacular views of the forest and Lake Tanganyika. Greystoke is renowned for excellent service, guided chimp trekking, and an eco-friendly philosophy.

• Mahale Campsite
  For more budget-conscious adventurers, camping facilities near the park provide basic amenities and a true wilderness experience. It’s a great way to connect deeply with nature.

• Ntakata Mountains Tented Camp
  Another popular option, this camp combines comfort with close proximity to chimpanzee trekking routes, offering tents with beds, solar power, and delicious meals.

What to Expect from Accommodation in Chimpanzee Trekking Areas

Because of the parks’ remote locations, expect accommodation to be more rustic and eco-focused compared to the luxury lodges in the Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Electricity is often limited, internet connectivity is spotty, and hot water might be a luxury.

However, this remoteness is part of the charm—waking up to forest sounds, fresh lake breezes, and close encounters with wildlife makes the experience truly unforgettable.

Booking Accommodation with Nyamera Treks and Safaris

At Nyamera Treks and Safaris, we handle all the logistics of your stay so you can focus on the adventure. Whether you prefer the comfort of a lodge or the authenticity of a camp, we recommend and book the best options suited to your budget and preferences. Our local knowledge ensures you get a smooth, worry-free stay close to your trekking site.