Mahale Mountains National Park
Where Lush Forests Meet the Crystal Waters of Lake Tanganyika.
The Primate Capital of the World
Mahale Mountains National Park is one of the most magical and remote destinations in all of Africa. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, with no roads within its boundaries, Mahale offers a truly unparalleled wilderness experience. The park is a breathtaking tapestry of lush, tropical rainforest cascading down the Mahale mountain range to the pristine, white-sand shores of Lake Tanganyika, the second-deepest lake in the world.
The primary reason to visit Mahale is for an extraordinary wildlife encounter: chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania. The park is home to a large, habituated population of chimpanzees, famously studied by Japanese researchers for decades. Trekking through the forest to spend time with our closest living relatives is a profound and moving experience. Beyond the chimps, Mahale is a haven for other primates, colorful birds, and butterflies, all set against the stunning backdrop of the crystal-clear lake, which offers a beach holiday experience unlike any other.
Key Mahale Experiences
Chimpanzee Trekking
The main event: an intimate and unforgettable encounter with the habituated Mimikire clan of chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Lake Tanganyika
Swim, kayak, or snorkel in the crystal-clear, fresh waters of the lake, or simply relax on its beautiful sandy beaches.
Remote & Exclusive
With no roads and access only by air and boat, Mahale offers a level of seclusion and exclusivity that is rare in today's world.
Rich Biodiversity
Explore the lush forests to find eight other species of primates, as well as a dazzling array of birds, butterflies, and unique flora.
Mahale Gallery
Mahale Mountains FAQs
The best time is during the dry season, from late June to October. During this time, the chimpanzees are often found on the lower slopes of the mountains, making the treks shorter and easier. The weather is also clear and pleasant for activities on the lake.
The treks vary in difficulty. You will be walking on uneven forest terrain with some steep sections. Treks can last from one to several hours depending on where the chimpanzees are. A good level of general fitness is required to fully enjoy the experience.
Access to Mahale is by light aircraft (bush plane) from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar to the Mahale airstrip. From the airstrip, it is a scenic 60-90 minute boat transfer along the lakeshore to reach the lodges and camps within the park.
Lake Tanganyika is a major attraction. You can enjoy swimming in the bilharzia-free water, snorkeling to see colorful cichlid fish, kayaking along the shoreline, going on fishing excursions, or taking a sunset dhow cruise.
While both are remote Western Circuit parks, their focus is different. Katavi is a classic savanna park known for its huge herds of buffalo and intense dry-season drama with hippos. Mahale is a rainforest and beach destination, with the primary activity being primate trekking, specifically for chimpanzees.
Experience the Magic of Mahale
A journey to Mahale is more than a safari; it's a pilgrimage to one of the last truly wild places on Earth. To sit with our closest relatives in their forest home is an experience that will stay with you forever. Let us plan your extraordinary adventure.
Plan Your Chimpanzee Trek