Mahale Mountains National Park is part of Tanzania’s Southwest Circuit (along with Nyerere (formerly Selous), Ruaha, and Katavi), and we love it!

Nestled along the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, Mahale can only be reached by boat. This untouched, rugged terrain features stunning mountains and is home to an impressive array of wildlife. With 82 mammal species, 355 bird species, and nine types of primates—most notably, the world’s largest remaining population of chimpanzees—Mahale is a true gem.

Visitors often set off on hikes through the forest to get up close to these habituated chimps, allowing for unforgettable moments as they observe them in their natural surroundings. The hiking can be quite demanding, especially from June to early July, when the chimps tend to roam higher up in the mountains.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the park, including:

• Hiking through the lush forest
• Swimming in waterfalls and natural mountain pools
• Sailing on traditional dhows or kayaking in the crystal-clear lake
• Visiting local communities or schools

There are only two lodges available for chimp trekking, and we specifically recommend Greystoke Mahale, which is beautifully situated at the foot of the mountains right by the lake.

Additionally, you can pair a visit to Mahale with a safari in the Serengeti. However, the park’s remote location means flights are less frequent, operating just twice a week, making it a bit of an adventure to reach. These secluded destinations add to the magic, making the journey well worth it!