Mahale Mountains

Mahale Mountains National Park, nestled on Lake Tanganyika’s eastern shores and only accessible by boat is a remote sanctuary renowned for its thriving chimpanzee population.

Overview

Tucked away in western Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park is a hidden gem where the forested slopes of the Mahale range meet the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. This untouched wilderness is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of eastern chimpanzees, offering visitors the rare opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. Beyond chimpanzees, the park teems with diverse wildlife, including nine other primate species, leopards, bushbucks, and a rich array of birdlife. Accessible solely by boat, Mahale’s remoteness ensures an intimate and immersive experience. Days here are spent trekking through lush forests in search of chimpanzees, swimming in the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, and relaxing on secluded beaches. The absence of roads and the presence of traditional dhow boats enhance the sense of adventure, making Mahale a destination for those seeking both tranquility and the thrill of discovery.

Best Time to Visit

Mahale Mountains National Park offers unique experiences throughout the year, with each season highlighting different facets of its beauty. The dry season, from June to October, is ideal for chimpanzee trekking, as the primates tend to stay closer to the lower slopes, making them more accessible. The forest trails are also less muddy, enhancing the hiking experience.  

The green season, spanning November to March, transforms the park into a lush paradise, adorned with wildflowers and alive with butterflies and birds. Photographers will appreciate the clear air and vibrant landscapes during this period. However, the dense vegetation can make chimpanzee tracking more challenging, as the primates may roam higher into the mountains and terrain is tougher under foot.

Jan

Excellent

Feb

Excellent

Mar

Mixed

Apr

Mixed

May

Mixed

Jun

Good

Jul

Excellent

Aug

Excellent

Sep

Excellent

Oct

Good

Nov

Mixed

Dec

Good

Known For

Chimpanzee Tracking – Trek through lush forest in search of wild chimpanzees in one of the most remote corners of Tanzania, far from the trekking crowds in Uganda.

Lake Tanganyika – Crystal-clear waters and empty beaches offer a barefoot contrast to traditional bush adventures.

Off-Grid Luxury – Few visitors, only boat access, and an atmosphere of deep calm and remoteness.

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Greystoke Mahale

Greystoke Mahale offers an unparalleled experience on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, providing intimate encounters with wild chimpanzees amidst the remote beauty of Mahale Mountains National Park.

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Wildlife

Great Apes

Great apes include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos. They are known for their intelligence, social structures, and complex behaviors. Great apes share a significant amount of DNA with humans, making them vital for understanding our own evolution. Unfortunately, many great ape species are endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals.

Gallery

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.

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Ideal Pairing

"Those keen to keep their great apes journey going could head on to Rwanda for some gorilla trekking. For those looking for something a little closer could head on to the Serengeti and catch up with the migration or delve in to big cat country at Namiri Plains."

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