Mjimwema Lodge - Gombe Stream National Park

Mjimwema Lodge is a guesthouse near Gombe Stream National Park.

Location
Gombe Stream National Park, Western Tanzania & Lake Victoria, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.885866, 29.633417
Elevation
828m
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 24/100

Nearest airstrip: Kigoma Airport (4.1 km) [HTKA]

Wildlife Near This Lodge

196 species observed within 20 km, 10 mammals, 26 birds.

  • Chimpanzee (Mammalia, 25 observations)
  • Blue-eyed Tropheus (Actinopterygii, 22 observations)
  • Elongate Lamprologus Cichlid (Actinopterygii, 19 observations)
  • Vervet Monkey (Mammalia, 18 observations)
  • Neolamprologus mondabu (Actinopterygii, 16 observations)
  • Leptura Cichlid (Actinopterygii, 14 observations)
  • Latticed Cichlid (Actinopterygii, 13 observations)
  • Telmatochromis bifrenatus (Actinopterygii, 13 observations)
  • Northern Tanganyika Clown (Actinopterygii, 12 observations)
  • Tanganyika Killifish (Actinopterygii, 11 observations)

Best Time to Visit Mjimwema Lodge

The best months to visit Mjimwema Lodge are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.08°C, rainfall 346.6mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.52°C, rainfall 269.2mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 87.9%
  • March: Good, temperature 21.62°C, rainfall 353.5mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 88%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.08°C, rainfall 410.9mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 89.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 21.47°C, rainfall 134.7mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 85%
  • June: Great, temperature 21.1°C, rainfall 29.4mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • July: Great, temperature 20.81°C, rainfall 6.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 70.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.84°C, rainfall 17.7mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 68.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.36°C, rainfall 64.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 72.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 22.33°C, rainfall 186.5mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 21.25°C, rainfall 374.7mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 87%
  • December: Poor, temperature 20.97°C, rainfall 384.5mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 88.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Mjimwema Lodge and access Gombe Stream National Park from there?

Mjimwema Lodge is typically reached via Kigoma, which has an airport and train station. From Kigoma, you'll arrange a boat transfer across Lake Tanganyika to the lodge, which is conveniently located for daily excursions into Gombe Stream National Park. The lodge can often assist with arranging park permits and boat transfers to the park entrance.

What kind of accommodation and facilities can I expect at Mjimwema Lodge as a guesthouse?

As a guesthouse, Mjimwema Lodge offers comfortable, simpler accommodation compared to luxury safari lodges, focusing on providing a clean and safe base for Gombe visitors. You can expect basic amenities, often including private rooms, meals, and a friendly atmosphere. It's designed for practicality and proximity to the park.

When is the best time of year to stay at Mjimwema Lodge for chimpanzee trekking in Gombe?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time for chimpanzee trekking as the forest trails are less muddy and chimps are easier to locate. However, the wet season (November-April) offers lush scenery and easier chimp sightings closer to the lake, though trails can be more challenging. Mjimwema Lodge is open year-round to accommodate visitors.

Besides chimpanzee trekking, what other wildlife or activities can I experience while staying at Mjimwema Lodge?

While chimpanzee trekking is the primary draw, Gombe Stream National Park also offers opportunities to spot other primates like olive baboons and red-tailed monkeys, as well as various bird species. You can also enjoy swimming in Lake Tanganyika, exploring local fishing villages, or simply relaxing by the lake after your park excursions. The lodge can help arrange these local experiences.

What is the typical cost range for staying at Mjimwema Lodge and visiting Gombe Stream National Park?

Mjimwema Lodge offers a more budget-friendly option compared to high-end safari lodges, with guesthouse rates varying based on room type and season. Park fees for Gombe Stream National Park, including chimpanzee trekking permits, are a significant separate cost and should be factored into your overall budget. It's advisable to inquire directly with the lodge for current accommodation rates and permit assistance.

Other Safari Lodges in Gombe Stream National Park

Parks in Western Tanzania & Lake Victoria

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Tanzania

Travel advisory for Tanzania