Choose your excursion
If you are looking for an authentic destination away from mass tourism, Kigoma, Tanzania’s western gateway, is a surprising and fascinating choice.
Gombe Stream National Park
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika (20 km north of Kigoma), the park is accessible exclusively by boat. Kigoma can be reached from Dar es Salaam by plane or train.
Established in 1968, it is one of Tanzania’s smallest parks (35 km2). The terrain is diverse and steep, ranging from grasslands to dense tropical rainforests. It is world-renowned as the site where Jane Goodall conducted her pioneering research on chimpanzees (specifically the Kasekela community).
The park is renowned for its biodiversity, in fact, in addition to chimpanzees, it is home to numerous species of primates (including baboons and red colobus monkeys), over 200 species of birds, waterbucks, snakes and, occasionally, leopards and hippopotamuses. The lake’s waters are home to around 100 varieties of cichlid fish.
The main activities include trekking with chimpanzees, swimming and snorkelling. We can organise day trips or packages of up to 3 days (2 nights), departing from Kigoma with private boat transfers.
Starting from 400 USD per adult
PLEASE NOTE: The prices of boat transfers may increase or decrease depending on the number of passengers and current fuel market conditions (which are currently very volatile).
Discover Kigoma
Kigoma is one of Tanzania’s most fascinating and authentic destinations. As the main port on the lake and terminus of the historic German colonial railway, the city serves as a lively trading centre.
Kigoma’s atmosphere is typical of frontier towns: relaxed, welcoming and multicultural. The urban landscape is dominated by green hills that plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the lake, offering spectacular sunsets. Among its symbols, the imposing railway station with its Teutonic architecture stands out.
The city offers access to pristine beaches and secluded bays where you can snorkel among hundreds of species of cichlid fish, famous among biologists and aquarists around the world. In the evening, the lake is lit up by the small torches of local fishermen, creating a constellation of lights that reflects the beating heart of this pearl of western Tanzania.
Starting from 100 USD per adult
Lake Tanganyika Tour
Lake Tanganyika, which laps the shores of Kigoma, is a natural giant and a treasure trove of biodiversity. With a maximum depth of 1,470 metres, it is the second deepest lake on Earth and holds almost a fifth of the world’s fresh water. Its clear waters are home to a unique ecosystem: over 250 species of brightly coloured cichlid fish make it an unmissable destination for lovers of snorkelling and marine biology.
Sailing its routes means immersing yourself in a landscape where rugged mountains meet white, secluded beaches, while at night the lake is transformed into a sea of dancing lights thanks to the traditional fleet of local fishermen.
We can plan various activities such as private boat trips, kayaking excursions and relaxing on the beach with drinks and snacks.
Starting from 100 USD per adult
Cultural and Historical Tour
In addition to its wild nature, Kigoma offers a journey through time and the folds of African history. In Ujiji, the atmosphere becomes solemn at the Livingstone Memorial, the site of the meeting that marked the era of great explorations.
Strolling through the city, the imposing German railway station and the legendary MV Liemba tell of a colonial and war-torn past that is still remarkably alive. Ending the day amid the scents of the central market, surrounded by Kitenge fabrics and the friendly chatter of traders, allows you to experience first-hand the hospitality and resilience of the people of this fascinating frontier town.
The culture of Kigoma can be savoured at the table and admired on the shores of the lake at sunrise. The local cuisine celebrates the treasures of Tanganyika: from delicious grilled Migebuka to the famous Dagaa, the small fish that fishermen catch at night by attracting them with kerosene lamps, creating a “constellation” of water visible from the coast.
Starting from 100 USD per adult