Mahale National Park

Mahale National Park Safaris

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Embrace Wild

Chimpanzee Encounters in Tanzania’s Wilderness

Leave the crowds behind and embark on a unique journey in Mahale Mountains National Park. Trek through lush rainforests, discover pristine shores along Lake Tanganyika, and encounter chimpanzees in their wild haven, forging a profound connection with this unspoiled wilderness.

Covering around 1,600 square kilometres of dense, mountainous rainforest rising from the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Africa’s most beautiful and least visited parks. This breathtaking scenery is complemented by the opportunity to see chimpanzees up close. The park is home to a large group of habituated chimps, meaning they are accustomed to human presence, allowing for meaningful and memorable encounters.

A visit to Mahale is not a traditional safari. Instead, it involves trekking through the lush vegetation, following leaf-strewn trails, crossing rivers, and discovering hidden waterfalls. While you may encounter various species of antelope and occasionally hear leopards, the primary focus is on chimp trekking and primate sightings. After a morning spent exploring the forested slopes, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear lake and sunbathe on the beach in the afternoon.

Getting to Mahale National Park is an experience in itself, accessible only by boat or air, which helps keep the park free from large numbers of tourists. Wildlife viewing here is less about the Big Five and more about the diverse species and exceptional plant and insect life in the dense forests.

A true Mahale safari experience is about the remarkable scenery, sandy lake shores, and forest explorations. It pairs perfectly with visits to southern Tanzania’s other safari reserves, such as Selous Game Reserve, Katavi, and Ruaha National Park.

Tanzania

Our Recommended

Mahale National Park Tours

Embrace the exclusivity of Mahale, a remote Eden. Whether seeking intimate lodges surrounded by pristine nature or venturing deep into the wilderness on chimpanzee trekking adventures, let us design your Mahale dream safari.

What To Do

in Mahale National
Park

Chimpanzee treks, wild remoteness, pristine Lake Tanganyika – discover Mahale’s unique enchantment.

Chimpanzee

Trek in Search of Wild Chimpanzees

Immerse yourself in dense rainforests with experienced guides and embark on trekking adventures leading you into the world of chimpanzees. Observe their remarkable social behaviors, hear their calls echo through the foliage, and be in the presence of our wild cousins.

Witness the extraordinary in the heart of the wild.

handmade wooden fishing boats on a beach

Experience the Majesty of Lake Tanganyika

Explore the turquoise expanse of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-deepest lake. Soak up the tranquility on untouched shores, spot a wealth of waterbird species, or delve beneath the surface for unique freshwater diving and vibrant fish encounters.

Explore vast lake teeming with aquatic life.

Hikers trekking in a forest together

Embrace Remote Forest Walks & Scenic Hikes

Venture beyond the chimpanzee treks and immerse yourself in Mahale’s scenic natural beauty. Explore captivating woodland trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and appreciate the diverse array of flora and fauna within this vibrant habitat..

Every step brings new surprises within the lush forest.

Fisherman repairing net on pebble beach

Enjoy Traditional Dhow Boat Rides

Experience the traditional mode of transport on Lake Tanganyika with relaxing dhow boat rides. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Mahale’s coastline, watch fishermen casting their nets, and indulge in the gentle lull of the water.

Drift and discover hidden coves of Lake Tanganyika.

Lake view.

Relax on Lakeside Bliss

Find your secluded spot to simply bask in the warmth of Mahale’s untouched paradise. Let the lapping waves of the lake calm your thoughts, and revel in the sense of complete escape from the rushed world, surrounded by natural wonders.

Pure stillness meets wild beauty on the pristine shores.

Chimpanzee