6 Days Rhino & Chimpanzee Expedition to Mkomazi & Gombe Stream

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged terrains of Mkomazi National Park to the lush forests of Gombe Stream National Park. This expedition offers a unique opportunity to observe the critically endangered Eastern black rhino and the renowned chimpanzees studied by Dr. Jane Goodall.

Day 1: Arrival in Moshi

• Distance Covered: Approximately 40 km (25 miles) from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Moshi.

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to Keys Hotel in Moshi. In the evening, you’ll receive a briefing about the upcoming adventure.

Day 2: Moshi to Mkomazi National Park and Return

• Distance Covered: Approximately 115 km (72 miles) each way; total of 230 km (144 miles).

Departing between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, we’ll drive to Mkomazi National Park, a journey of about 2 to 2.5 hours. The park is nestled between the Usambara and Pare mountain ranges, with Mount Kilimanjaro providing a stunning backdrop. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, seeking out species such as elephants, zebras, giraffes, and the rare gerenuk. A highlight of the day will be visiting the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary to learn about the conservation efforts for the critically endangered Eastern black rhino. In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Keys Hotel in Moshi for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Flight from Arusha to Kigoma

• Distance Covered: Flight from Arusha to Kigoma (distance varies based on flight path).

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Arusha Airport for a scheduled flight to Kigoma. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to Kigoma Hilltop Hotel. The afternoon is at your leisure, with an option to explore Kigoma and the historic Ujiji Town, known for the meeting between explorers Stanley and Livingstone. Dinner and overnight at Kigoma Hilltop Hotel.

Day 4: Kigoma to Gombe Stream National Park

• Distance Covered: Approximately 16 km (10 miles) by boat; journey takes about 3 hours due to stops at lakeside villages.

Following breakfast, we’ll embark on a boat journey along Lake Tanganyika to Gombe Stream National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at the lodge. If time permits, set out on your first chimpanzee tracking excursion. Dinner and overnight at Gombe Forest Lodge.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Kakombe Waterfalls

After breakfast, delve deeper into the forest for chimpanzee tracking. Gombe is home to the famous Kasakela chimpanzee community, extensively studied by Dr. Jane Goodall. If time allows, hike to the picturesque Kakombe Waterfalls. All meals and overnight stay at Gombe Forest Lodge.

Day 6: Gombe Stream National Park to Kigoma and Departure

• Distance Covered: Approximately 16 km (10 miles) by boat back to Kigoma.

After breakfast, we’ll return by boat to Kigoma, followed by a transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Dar es Salaam or Arusha. Upon arrival, you can opt for an overnight stay or connect to your international flight home.