MAHALE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
Overview
Mahale is unique because it is one of the few places in the world where the rainforest meets a white-sand beach, all while being home to some of the densest populations of wild chimpanzees on the planet.
PRICE PER PERSON FOR SOLO RAVELLER $ 1590
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 2 PEOPLES $ 1080
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 3 PEOPLES $ 934
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 4 PEOPLES $ 947
PRICE PER PERSON SHARING FOR THE 6 PEOPLES $ 864
Starts at:
$1,590.00 Per Person
Day 1: Arrival in Kigoma – Boat Safari & Sport Fishing on Lake Tanganyika
Upon arrival at Kigoma Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional guide and transferred to the lakefront for your boat transfer to Mahale Mountains National Park. Board a comfortable boat and enjoy a scenic cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, surrounded by forested mountain slopes and secluded beaches. The morning activity includes a boat safari, observing local fishermen, abundant birdlife including kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles, and possibly hippos along the shoreline. Mid-morning, enjoy sport fishing in the lake’s pristine waters, with opportunities to catch tilapia, catfish, and other local species under the guidance of your expert crew. Lunch is served on the boat or at the camp, followed by a relaxing afternoon swimming, kayaking, or enjoying the lakeside scenery. In the evening, you will check in at Mahale TANAPA Cottages, a serene eco-lodge set on the lakeshore, for overnight accommodation. Dinner is served at the cottages, allowing you to reflect on your first day of adventure while listening to the peaceful sounds of the lake and forest.
Day 2: Full-Day Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park
After an early breakfast at TANAPA Cottages, embark on a full-day chimpanzee trekking adventure, guided by experienced Tanzanian trackers and park rangers. Trek through dense tropical rainforest, enjoying the lush vegetation, giant trees, and vibrant birdlife. Your guides will explain chimpanzee behavior, social structures, and conservation initiatives, providing educational value to your wildlife encounter. After several hours, you will reach wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, witnessing their playful interactions, grooming rituals, and social hierarchy—a truly unforgettable experience. Lunch is served at a picnic site within the forest, giving you time to rest, photograph, and absorb the rainforest’s ambiance. In the afternoon, optional short nature walks, birdwatching, or visits to waterfalls allow for further exploration of the park’s unique ecosystem. Return to Mahale TANAPA Cottages for dinner and overnight, enjoying the peaceful lakeside setting and evening sounds of the forest.
Day 3: Boat Transfer to Kigoma – Departure
After breakfast at TANAPA Cottages, enjoy a final morning by the lake, perhaps walking along the shore or taking last-minute photographs of the mountains and forest. Board the boat transfer back across Lake Tanganyika to Kigoma, soaking in the panoramic views of the lake and forested slopes one last time. Upon arrival at Kigoma, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, reflecting on the highlights of your adventure. This concludes your Mahale Mountains National Park experience, leaving memories of chimpanzee trekking, boat safari, sport fishing, and the serene beauty of Lake Tanganyika. Optional souvenir shopping in Kigoma adds a final touch before departure. Your guides bid farewell, celebrating a journey filled with wildlife, adventure, and unforgettable natural scenery.
What's Included & Excluded
Inclusions
- • Airport transfers: Pickup from Kigoma Airport and transfer to the lakefront for boat transfer to Mahale Mountains National Park.
- • Boat transfers: Comfortable boat ride to and from Mahale TANAPA Cottages across Lake Tanganyika.
- • Accommodation: 2 nights at Mahale TANAPA Cottages, lakeside eco-lodge with full board.
- • Private Safari Vehicle
- • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the stay, including picnic lunch during chimpanzee trekking.
- • Chimpanzee trekking with experienced TANAPA guides and trackers.
- • Boat safari on Lake Tanganyika.
- • Sport fishing with equipment and guidance.
- • Park fees: All Mahale Mountains National Park entrance fees and conservation fees.
- • Professional guides: Services of experienced Tanzanian guides and porters.
- • Bottled water during all treks and excursions.
- • Briefings and orientation: Safety instructions and activity guidance throughout the trip.
Exclusions
- • International or domestic flights to Kigoma.
- • Tips and gratuities for guides, boat crew, or lodge staff.Personal travel insurance or evacuation cover.
- • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and snacks not specified in the itinerary.
- • Visa fees (if applicable).
- • Laundry, telephone, or internet charges at Mahale TANAPA Cottages.
- • Optional activities outside the scheduled program (e.g., extended kayaking or photography trips).