SafariBando / Safari & Tours / 4-Day Mahale Mountains Trekking Chimpanzees / Details
Track Chimpanzees on the Shores of Lake Tanganyika
This immersive 4-day safari takes you deep into the remote forests of Mahale Mountains National Park, home to one of Africa’s last remaining wild chimpanzee populations. Starting from Kigoma Town, you’ll drive along the lake to Mahale Park Headquarters, then take a short boat ride to reach your lakeside retreat—Mahale Mango Tree Bandas.
Here, nestled between the mountains and Lake Tanganyika, you’ll enjoy forest hikes, chimpanzee trekking, and peaceful moments surrounded by untouched wilderness. This experience is perfect for travelers looking for authentic, off-the-grid wildlife encounters in one of Tanzania’s most enchanting settings.
Note: This Itinerary can be customised to match your budget and travel dates
Destinations visited
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kigoma – Drive to Mahale HQ – Boat to Park
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kigoma Town to the Mahale National Park Headquarters at Mgambo Village, following the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Upon arrival, board a boat transfer across the lake to Mahale Mango Tree Bandas, located inside the park.
Settle into your eco-friendly lakeside accommodation and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. In the afternoon, you may choose to take a short forest walk, swim in the lake, or simply relax on the beach.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mahale Mango Tree Bandas
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains
After an early breakfast, set off on your first chimpanzee tracking adventure. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, hike through the dense rainforest to locate the M-Group chimpanzees, one of the most studied chimp families in Africa.
Spend time observing their social behavior up-close before returning to camp for lunch and rest. The afternoon is free to swim, kayak, birdwatch, or simply take in the tranquility of the lakeshore.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mahale Mango Tree Bandas
Day 3: Second Trek, Forest Walk or Cultural Visit
This day offers flexibility based on your interest. You may choose to:
- Embark on an second chimpanzee trek
- Join a guided forest walk to spot birds, monkeys, and butterflies
- Visit a local fishing village and learn about the traditional Tongwe culture
Return to camp for lunch, with your afternoon free for lake activities or relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mahale Mango Tree Bandas
Day 4: Mahale – Boat to HQ – Drive to Kigoma
After a relaxed breakfast, board the boat back to Mahale HQ, where your vehicle awaits. Enjoy the return drive to Kigoma, arriving by early afternoon.
You may connect to an evening flight to Dar es Salaam or spend an extra night in Kigoma (optional).
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Not included
Price for 4-Day Mahale Mountains Trekking Chimpanzees / Rates Per Person
- $2,301 per person when 1 person travels alone
- $1,640 per person when 2 people travel together
- $1,419 per person when 3 people travel together
- $1,309 per person when 4 people travel together
- $1,243 per person when 5 people travel together
- $1,199 per person when 6 people travel together
For a more accurate estimate, it's best to contact us directly and discuss your specific requirements and budget. We can provide you with a detailed quote based on your itinerary, group size, and preferred level of comfort
Cost Includes
- Return road transfer from Kigoma to Mahale HQ
- Return boat transfer from Mahale HQ to Mango Tree Bandas
- 3 nights Full Board accommodation at Mahale Mango Tree Bandas
- 2x chimpanzee tracking permit
- Park entrance fees & village fees
- English-speaking guide
- Drinking water during activities
Cost Excludes
- Domestic flights (Dar es Salaam ↔ Kigoma) – can be arranged
- Accommodation in Kigoma before or after safari
- Alcoholic
- Tips and personal expenses
- Travel insurance