St. Martha Nzimano Hostel - Gombe Stream National Park

St. Martha Nzimano Hostel is a hotel near Gombe Stream National Park.

Location
Gombe Stream National Park, Western Tanzania & Lake Victoria, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.873589, 29.631480
Elevation
796m
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 22/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

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

  • Chimpanzee (Mammalia, 26 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 St. Martha Nzimano Hostel

The best months to visit St. Martha Nzimano Hostel 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 travelers typically reach St. Martha Nzimano Hostel and Gombe Stream National Park?

St. Martha Nzimano Hostel is primarily accessed via Kigoma, Tanzania, which has an airport. From Kigoma, visitors usually take a boat ride across Lake Tanganyika to reach the hostel and the entrance to Gombe Stream National Park, as there are no roads leading directly to the park or nearby accommodations. This scenic boat journey is part of the unique travel experience to this remote area.

What kind of experience can I expect at St. Martha Nzimano Hostel when visiting Gombe Stream National Park?

As a hostel near Gombe Stream, St. Martha Nzimano provides a convenient and practical base for chimpanzee trekking. While it offers essential amenities for a comfortable stay, guests should anticipate a more rustic and community-focused lodging experience rather than a luxury safari lodge. Its main appeal is its strategic location for early access to the park's primate tracking activities.

When is the best time of year to stay at St. Martha Nzimano Hostel for chimpanzee trekking in Gombe Stream?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time for chimpanzee trekking, as the chimps are easier to locate closer to the lake shore. During this period, the trails are also less muddy, making for more comfortable hikes. However, the wet season (November-April) offers lush scenery and often more active chimps, though tracking can be more challenging.

What additional costs should I budget for when staying at St. Martha Nzimano Hostel to visit Gombe Stream National Park?

Beyond accommodation, visitors must budget for Gombe Stream National Park fees and the mandatory chimpanzee trekking permits, which are significant costs. These permits are essential for participating in the park's primary activity. Additionally, consider costs for boat transfers from Kigoma, guide services, and any personal supplies you might need.

Are there any specific safety considerations or local tips for guests staying at St. Martha Nzimano Hostel and exploring Gombe Stream?

Guests should always follow park ranger instructions during chimpanzee treks, maintaining a safe distance and never feeding wildlife. It's advisable to bring insect repellent, sturdy hiking shoes, and sufficient drinking water. While the area is generally safe, it's prudent to keep valuables secure and be mindful of your surroundings, especially during boat transfers.

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