Visit Mahale
a chimpanzee refuge nested between mountains and lakes
The Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania covers 1,613 km2. It stretches across the Mahale mountain range and is bordered by Lake Tanganyika. The park is located in the west of Tanzania.
Tanzania's Mahale Mountains, which overlook the coast, rise to 2,460 metres. Lake Tanganyika is the least polluted freshwater lake in the world. It is home to around 250 different species of fish, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Inside this park live the last wild chimpanzees in Africa, a secluded and incredible sanctuary
A journey to the heart of Tanzania's most beautiful landscapes.
Habitat
& Animals
Mahale Mountain National Park extends over 1,613 km² along the Mahale mountain range in western Tanzania, bordered by Lake Tanganyika. The park is home to around 800 of Africa's last wild chimpanzees, making it a unique sanctuary for these primates. The region is also rich in biodiversity, with species such as zebras, porcupines, various reptiles and birds, as well as the red colobus. Lake Tanganyika, the least polluted of the large freshwater lakes, contributes to the park's exceptional ecosystem.
Look out for:
· Chimpanzee
· Zebra
· Porcupine
· Reptiles
· Birds
· Red Colobus monkeys
A journey to the heart of Tanzania's most beautiful landscapes.
REGULATIONS FOR CHIMPANZEE OBSERVATION
Children under the age of 12 cannot take part in chimpanzee research. You must wear a mask and keep a distance of 10 metres from the chimpanzees. It is forbidden to visit the chimpanzees if you are ill.
It is forbidden to eat, drink, smoke, spit or wear perfume in the vicinity. No traces should be left on the site, and it is advisable to dig a deep hole if you need to go to the toilet. Speak softly, avoid sudden movements and eye contact. A group should not exceed 6 people plus a guide, with a maximum of one hour of observation and three hours of monitoring.
Although the Mahale chimpanzees are used to humans, they remain wild, and it is crucial not to disturb them
Chimpanzee watching
Meet chimpanzees in their natural habitat, a unique adventure to observe these fascinating primates up close in the rainforest.
Boat safari
Explore the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika by boat, where you can admire the aquatic wildlife and the surrounding mountain scenery.
Fishing
Enjoy a fishing experience on Lake Tanganyika, renowned for its rich aquatic fauna, and discover traditional local fishing techniques.’
Your highlights
Crossing the path of chimpanzees
Feeling a sense of wonder at the far end of the world
Watching the sun set over the lake
Where to sleep
to make the most of Mahale
These accommodations
have been selected with care
by our team.
Greystoke Mahale
Mbali Mbali Mahale
Greystoke Mahale
Mbali mbali mahale
Expert's tip
“The best time to observe the chimpanzees is during the dry season, from June to October. You are then likely to see them in big groups!
To get there, you'll need to take a small bush plane. These planes are only chartered if there are a minimum number of seats occupied on the plane. Flights are on Mondays and Thursdays. Be careful with your itineraries!
You can easily combine Mahale Park with Katavi Park, a 1-hour flight from the bush.“
Laurène, Specialised consultant
Similar safaris
Explore our travel itineraries and get in touch to plan your tailor-made adventure.
Neema House Road, Arusha Tanzania
