4 Days Mahale Mountain Chimpanzee Trekking
Mahale Mountains National Park lies on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. Named after the Mahale Mountains range that is within its borders, the park has several unusual characteristics. First, it is one of only two protected areas for chimpanzees in the country. Another unusual feature of the park is that, it is one of the very few parks in Africa that must be experienced by foot.
The dry season (May -October) is the best period. During this period, chimpanzees are likely to be seen in big groups, the sunshine illuminates the fish in the Lake and the beach is an inviting place to relax. However, Mahale Mountains National Park is accessible all year round. A visit in the rainy season can also be a memorable experience.
INCLUDED
- Airport Pickup and Drop – Off
- Private Jeep 4×4 equipped with refrigerator, portable charging stations and pop-up roof
- Unlimited mileage game drive
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Overnight stays in Luxury Lodges, Tented Camps OR Budget Camping Area
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Mineral water on all days
- All mentioned activities
- All park entrances fees
- Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF) during the safari for emergence evacuations
- All government taxes
EXCLUDED
- Flights (International)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips for safari guide
- Personal expenses in nature such as money for souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees etc.
- Visa fees (100 USD for American and 50 USD for non-American)
- Immunization documents (yellow fever recommended for visa processing on arrivals)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and /or park fees
Day 1: Flight from Arusha/ Dar es Salaam to Kigoma town
Start your safari to Mahale early in the morning. Upon arrival to Mahale Mountain National Park from either Arusha or Dar es Salaam, you will be picked up and transferred to the lodge by boat, where you will enjoy your hot lunch at the lodge. After getting your lunch, start a short chimpanzee tracking in the forest. Return to the lodge for dinner and bonfire and an overnight
Day 2: Mahale – Boat Safaris
Early in the morning, take your breakfast at the lodge. Start chimpanzee tracking in the forest followed by a hot lunch at the lodge. Chimpanzee tracking is the star attraction of Mahale and guided treks into the forest are taken daily. The length of the tracking depends on the movements of the chimpanzees but there is no limit on time spent observing the chimps. Other primates are often encountered and the forest is also home to leopards and bush pigs. All safaris in the forest are on foot and require a general level of fitness. After spending the morning exploring the park, return to the camp for a hot lunch and some relaxation. After getting your lunch, start a boat safari for bird-watching and game viewing. Return to the lodge for dinner and a bonfire and later for an overnight.