Gombe Stream National Park

　　Gombe Stream National Park is Tanzania’s smallest national park, covering just 52 square kilometers. It is a long, narrow strip of land where chimpanzees are often seen perched on steep slopes or in the low-lying river valleys, with Lake Tanganyika’s northern shore embracing the valley.

　　Chimpanzees have long been accustomed to human visitors, and the pioneering work of Dr. Jane Goodall has made the chimpanzees living here world-famous. Her research team established a behavioral study program in 1960 and continues to be at the forefront of such studies globally. Sharing 98% of their DNA with humans, chimpanzees’ vocalizations—when they call to one another—can reveal who among them is a celebrity, who is adept at wielding power, and who is a minor player. When you look into a chimpanzee’s eyes, you might see a glint of understanding, as it, in turn, studies you. Such expressions can transcend species barriers, conveying a sense of kinship with humans.

　　Other commonly seen mammals in Gombe Stream National Park are primates, which have been studied since the 1960s. Olive baboons are the most frequently spotted, often seen in groups along the shoreline, while red-tailed monkeys and colobus monkeys prefer the shelter of the forest. Colobus monkeys are often hunted by chimpanzees.

　　Gombe Stream National Park Reason to visit: Tanzania’s most famous chimpanzee park Continent: Africa Country/Region: Tanzania Province/State: Kigoma Region