Mahale Mountains & Katavi National Park

Lying on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Western Tanzania is Mahale Mountains National Park. Densely forested mountains cascade downward to the lagoon, the mist-covered peak of Mount Nkungwe rises up in the background and crystal-clear waters beckon for snorkelling, kayaking and hippo or crocodile-spotting. But it is not the incredible landscape that makes this park so incredible, as Mahale Mountains is first and foremost a chimp sanctuary, where these primates co-exist with lions in a spectacular way.

Around 1,700 chimpanzees live within this reserve, including a clan so habituated to human researchers that you will be able to observe them from very close distances. In the dry season months of June to October the undergrowth is less dense and the chimps frequently come down near the main lodge area to feed, almost guaranteeing a sighting of these incredible creatures.

Following the theme of amazing wildlife comes Katavi, Tanzania’s third largest and most unspoilt wilderness areas in the country. Comprised of grassy plains and dry woodland, birding in Katavi is exceptional and predators such as lion and hyena are frequently seen. Large animal herds, particularly of Cape buffalos, live alongside zebras, giraffes and elephants, whilst crocodiles and hippopotami lie along the Katuma River.

Both parks feature excellent guides and, despite their isolated nature, are extremely atmospheric. With Mahale Mountains offering exclusive chimpanzee encounters and Katavi ensuring intimate game experiences, you are guaranteed to have a remarkable adventure.