Walk into the heart of the forest and meet chimpanzees in their natural world, raw, thrilling, and true.
Embark on an exclusive journey to Mahale Mountain, a hidden sanctuary along the western shores of Lake Tanganyika. In our 5-Day Mahale Mountain Chimpanzee Trekking Safari, you will trek through pristine forests to witness chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Immerse yourself in the beauty of this untouched paradise, where lush green forests meet crystal clear waters.
Between trekking and wildlife discovery, enjoy peaceful moments along the shore of Lake Tanganyika. Be lucky to discover rare avian species and discover the rich biodiversity surrounding you. This safari is intimate, transformative, and unforgettable, enabling each traveller to witness and remember the lifestyles of our first cousins.
Tour Highlights
- Sparkling Waters of Lake Tanganyika
- Emerald Rainforest of Mahale Mountain
- Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching
- Adventurous Chimpanzee Trekking
An intimate wildlife encounter that feels wild, rare, and unforgettable.
Morning: Depart from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam on a morning flight to Kigoma, arriving in the afternoon to begin your Mahale adventure.
Afternoon: Arrive at Kigoma Airport, where your guide greets you and leads you on a scenic drive to MahaleMountain, passing lakeside villages and lush landscapes.
As evening falls, enjoy a boat excursion on Lake Tanganyika. Glide across crystal-clear waters, watch the sun paint the forested mountains in gold, and catch glimpses of wildlife visible only from the lake, a breathtaking introduction to Mahale.
Accommodation Options:
Midrange: Forest Bandas - an eco-friendly and comfortable accommodation nestled in the forest for a true wilderness experience.
Luxury: Mahale Lodge – stylish lodges offering panoramic lake and forest views with all the comforts of a boutique retreat.
Step into the emerald rainforest where wild chimpanzees roam. Trek alongside experienced guides and feel the thrill of hearing the chimps before seeing them, as their calls echo through the dense canopy.
Spend precious moments observing these extraordinary primates up close; their curiosity, playfulness, and social bonds are a living reflection of our shared DNA. Between trekking, enjoy the sparkling beaches of Lake Tanganyika, the melodies of tropical birds, and the rich biodiversity that surrounds you.
Accommodation Options:
Midrange: Forest Bandas - an eco-friendly and comfortable accommodation nestled in the forest for a true wilderness experience.
Luxury: Mahale Lodge – stylish lodges offering panoramic lake and forest views with all the comforts of a boutique retreat.
Venture deeper into the rainforest, following the movements of different chimpanzee family groups. Your guide will interpret their behaviours and stories, revealing insights into primate life that few ever experience.
Every step along Mahale’s trails brings surprises, including sightings of red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and colourful birdlife, making the day a full immersion in a living wilderness classroom.
Accommodation Options:
Midrange: Forest Bandas - an eco-friendly and comfortable accommodation nestled in the forest for a true wilderness experience.
Luxury: Mahale Lodge – stylish lodges offering panoramic lake and forest views with all the comforts of a boutique retreat.
Another day of chimpanzee trekking in Mahale awaits, offering the rare opportunity to spend prolonged time with these remarkable creatures. Pause in quiet glades, watch playful interactions, and marvel at the harmony of life in one of Africa's most pristine forests.
This day also allows for relaxation by the lake, gentle hikes, and birdwatching, combining adventure with moments of peaceful reflection in the heart of nature.
Accommodation Options:
Midrange: Forest Bandas - an eco-friendly and comfortable accommodation nestled in the forest for a true wilderness experience.
Luxury: Mahale Lodge – stylish lodges offering panoramic lake and forest views with all the comforts of a boutique retreat.
Early Morning: A final boat transfer across Lake Tanganyika offers sweeping views of misty forested hills and the shimmering lake, nature’s perfect goodbye.
Morning & Afternoon: Transfer back to Kigoma Airport, carrying memories of intimate chimpanzee encounters, serene forests, and the unmatched beauty of Mahale Mountain.
Include
- All activities, unless indicated as optional
- All meals as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary
- Taxes and VAT
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Chefs
- All accommodations
- Domestic flights
- Drinking water is provided daily
- Park fees
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- Professional guide
- Chimpanzee tracker
Exclude
- International flights
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Tips (Recommended: USD 10 per person per day)
- Any government-imposed increase in taxes and/or park fees
- Camping equipment
Tanzania Safari FAQs
The best time for Chimpanzee Trekking is during the dry season from June to August and from December to February. These months are easier, with fewer muddy trails and better chimpanzee sightings.
Besides chimpanzees, you might also witness olive baboons, red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and other mammals like bushpig, bushbucks, and over 200 diverse avian species.
No. Chimpanzees are fully protected, and direct interaction with humans is not allowed. Only authorised conservationists, government officials, or wildlife medical experts may handle them under special conditions. Tourists can observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, but only at a safe, regulated distance.
Since this is a trekking expedition, you need to pack sturdy hiking shoes, lightweight clothing, insect repellent, personal medicines, and a camera with a zoom lens, which is highly recommended.