5-Day Mahale Mountains Chimpanzee Safari with Lake Tanganyika

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Track wild chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains National Park with expert guides in their natural rainforest habitat
• 02 Enjoy a scenic fly-in safari with boat transfers across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika
• 03 Stay in a luxury beachfront lodge with access to one of Africa's most remote wilderness areas
• 04 Relax with kayaking, snorkeling, forest walks, and stunning sunsets over the Congo Mountains

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape to Mahale Mountains National Park on the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika. This 5-day fly-in safari combines exclusive beachfront comfort with guided chimpanzee trekking in untouched rainforest. Track wild chimpanzees, explore rich biodiversity, and unwind with kayaking and sunset views. This journey offers privacy, adventure, and unmatched natural beauty in one of Africa's most remote destinations.

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime luxury escape to Mahale Mountains National Park on the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Luxury

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mahale Mountains National Park

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Fly to Mahale and Transfer Across Lake Tanganyika

• Begin your journey with a scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam or Arusha to Mahale Mountains National Park.
• Enjoy a scenic boat transfer across Lake Tanganyika to your beachfront lodge.
• Check in and relax at the lodge surrounded by untouched wilderness.
• Swim in the lake or unwind with a sundowner overlooking the landscape.

2

Day 02

Chimpanzee Trekking in the Forest

• Start the day with an early breakfast before heading into the forest.
• Track habituated chimpanzees with expert guides in their natural habitat.
• Observe chimpanzee behaviour up close during this unique experience.
• Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation by the lakeshore.
• Optional activities include swimming or kayaking in Lake Tanganyika.

3

Day 03

Second Chimp Trek and Biodiversity Walk

• Enjoy another chimpanzee trekking experience in Mahale Mountains National Park.
• Spend more time observing chimpanzees in different forest areas.
• Alternatively, take a guided forest walk to explore biodiversity.
• Discover birdlife, butterflies, and unique tropical flora.
• Relax at the lodge in the afternoon with lake views.

4

Day 04

Lake Tanganyika Leisure and Water Activities

• Spend a full day at leisure along Lake Tanganyika.
• Enjoy kayaking or snorkeling in the clear freshwater lake.
• Take a guided boat excursion along the scenic coastline.
• Relax on the beach or visit nearby waterfalls and coves.
• End the day with a sunset sundowner over the mountains.

5

Day 05

Return Flight from Mahale

• Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge.
• Take a boat transfer back to the airstrip.
• Fly from Mahale Mountains National Park to Dar es Salaam or Arusha.
• Conclude your luxury safari experience.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Domestic return flights
• Park fees & chimpanzee permits
• Luxury accommodation (full board)
• All activities (trekking, kayaking, snorkeling)
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Boat transfers

What's Not Included

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips & personal expenses
• Optional spa treatments

What to bring

• Lightweight trekking clothes
• Hiking boots
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen & hat
• Camera with zoom lens
• Swimwear

Know before you go

• Chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding.
• The minimum age for trekking is usually 12-15 years.
• Best time to visit: June to October (dry season).
• Limited accommodation - early booking is required.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Tour start

Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.