Katavi Game and Mahale Chimpanzees Safari

A unique safari to western Tanzania exploring the vast plains of Katavi and tracking the chimpanzees of Mahale.

A truly unique week exploring the far western reaches of Tanzania, spending time in one of the largest wildernesses in Tanzania: Katavi. In Katavi there are huge numbers of hippos, elephants, crocodiles and more, and their presence around waterholes makes for excellent wildlife-viewing. You'll then move on to enjoy an unforgettable chimpanzee experience, trekking each day into the forested Mahale Mountains from your base at Kungwe Beach Lodge, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Here you can not only track the chimpanzees but also take to the lake and enjoy the beach, whether it's canoeing, swimming, walking or simply sipping a cocktail. It's the perfect way to combine relaxation and adventure at the end of your Tanzania safari.

Katavi National Park

Uniquely isolated in western Tanzania with over a million hectares of wilderness surrounding you, Katavi is one of the last true remaining wildernesses in Africa. The majority of your wildlife safaris here will take place in the areas around Lake Katavi and Lake Chada, which tend to be open grasslands in the dry season and wetland areas during the rains. Large numbers of crocodiles, elephants, hippos and other savannah game congregate around these watering holes. With access to the park limited, the number of visitors to the park is minimal whilst game viewing is optimal! While staying at Katuma Bush Lodge you'll be able to see the local wildlife during both day and night drives, accompanied by expert guides who will be more than happy to share with you their knowledge of the park and its animal inhabitants.

Mahale Mountains National Park

Track the habituated chimpanzees of Mahale and take in all that this amazing lodge has to offer. After early-morning breakfasts at camp, your first activity will be to go chimpanzee tracking in the forested foothills of the Mahale Mountains. Lush tropical jungle surrounds you as you follow the frenetic pants and hoots of the chimps off in the distance; it is only when you finally come across them that you realise how privileged you are to spend time with these intelligent apes in their natural habitat. Sometimes sitting in the middle of the group it is difficult not to feel part of the family. A truly amazing experience! Returning to camp in the afternoons you can then spend time on the beach, hop in a kayak or take a boat safari to spot the fish, birds and reptiles that inhabit Lake Tanganyika.

Mbali Mbali Katavi

Set on an elevated point overlooking the vast plains of Katisunga, Mbali Mbali Katavi is shaded by acacia and tamarind trees, and experiences stunning African sunsets.