Chimpanzee-rich wilderness

Mahale Mountains National Park rests on Lake Tanganyika's eastern shore in Tanzania's Kigoma Region, Uvinza District. Named after the Mahale Mountains range within, the park boasts distinctive features. It stands as one of two protected areas for chimpanzees in the country, alongside nearby Gombe Stream National Park, renowned for Jane Goodall's research.

Mahale Mountains National Park boasts the largest population of eastern chimpanzees, thriving in its vast and remote expanse. Remarkably, the park is one of the rare places where chimpanzees and lions coexist. Another distinct trait is its exclusive accessibility on foot, as there are no roads or infrastructure within its boundaries. Visitors access the park solely by boat on Lake Tanganyika.

The Mahale mountains were historically home to the Batongwe and Holoholo peoples, with populations of 22,000 and 12,500 respectively in 1987. Unfortunately, the establishment of the Mahale Mountains Wildlife Research Center in 1979 led to their forceful eviction, making way for the park, which opened in 1985. These communities had lived in harmony with the natural environment, leaving little ecological impact.

How to get there

From Kigoma, located about 130km north of Mahale, take a scenic speedboat ride along Lake Tanganyika's shores. Alternatively, travel by road along the lakeshore using various transportation options. Tourists can reach the park from Dar Es Salaam or Arusha via light aircraft, with scheduled chartered flights taking around four to five hours to reach Mahale airstrip.

Wildlife

Famous for its abundant wildlife, the park houses over 1000 chimpanzees, alongside red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and yellow baboons. Observe waterbucks, bushbucks, elephants, buffaloes, roan antelopes, lions, wild dogs, and more within this extraordinary national park.

Activities

Trek to encounter the 60-strong Mimikere chimpanzee group in dense forests. Hike Mount Nkungwe for wildlife and birdlife views. Enjoy lakeshore activities like kayaking and snorkeling on Lake Tanganyika's pristine beaches. Explore forested slopes on walking safaris and indulge in bird watching near the lodge area.

Best time to visit

Mahale Mountains National Park welcomes visitors year-round. For the ultimate experience, visit during the long dry season from July to October when chimpanzees gather in larger groups near the shore. The wet season offers sightings too, requiring a bit more walking, but the reward of encountering these incredible creatures remains.

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