Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most remote and breathtakingly beautiful wilderness areas. Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, this unspoiled park is famous for its wild chimpanzee trekking, dramatic mountain backdrops, and pristine beaches. With no roads and limited access, Mahale offers a rare and intimate safari experience that few travelers ever reach—but those who do are richly rewarded.

Home of the Wild Chimpanzees

The Mahale Mountains are home to one of Africa’s largest populations of wild chimpanzees. The park’s M group, which has been habituated for research and tourism, allows for one of the most exhilarating wildlife encounters in the world—trekking through rainforest-covered mountains to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Watching them forage, groom, and play is a profoundly moving experience.

Remote Beauty and Biodiversity

Accessible only by boat, Mahale is a pristine paradise. Towering forested peaks rise directly from the blue waters of Lake Tanganyika, creating a spectacular landscape that feels almost untouched by time. The forest is home to:

Nine primate species including red colobus and blue monkeys
Over 350 bird species
Unique flora such as giant fig trees, mahogany, and wild ginger

Lake Tanganyika: Africa’s Freshwater Jewel

The lake itself is Africa’s deepest and longest freshwater lake, with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, snorkeling, or relaxing on the beach. The lake teems with colorful cichlid fish, and the sunsets over Congo’s distant mountains are magical.

Exclusive and Eco-Friendly Lodging

Because of its remote location, Mahale offers small, high-end eco-lodges and camps—often only accessible by scheduled boat or flight. This ensures a low-impact and immersive experience, perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurous honeymooners.

Getting There

Mahale is typically accessed via scheduled or charter flights from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to Katavi or directly to Mahale Airstrip, followed by a scenic boat transfer across Lake Tanganyika. It pairs well with Katavi National Park for an ultra-remote western Tanzania safari circuit.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry season (June to October) when the trails are easier to hike and chimps are more easily found near the base of the mountains. However, Mahale is green and vibrant year-round, and the rainy season offers a more lush, dramatic experience.