Mahale MountainsNational Park

Mahale Mountains National Park sits on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, on the remote forested slopes above the lake. There are no roads into the park, so access is normally by light aircraft or by boat across Lake Tanganyika, usually connecting from the Kigoma area.

Around 800 habituated chimpanzees roam the forested slopes of these remote mountains, making Mahale one of the premier chimpanzee tracking destinations in the world. Habituation means the chimps are accustomed to the presence of small groups of visitors at close range.

Treks follow steep, forested mountain trails and can last several hours depending on where the chimpanzees moved the previous night, so a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy footwear help. Trackers go out ahead of guests, so the walking is usually slower and more observational than simply covering distance.

The park's Lake Tanganyika shoreline offers swimming, snorkeling and dhow or boat excursions, and the forests hold other primates such as red colobus and blue monkeys plus a rich bird community. Many visitors combine chimpanzee trekking with time on the lake and forest walks.

The drier months, broadly June through October, tend to give easier trekking conditions and clearer lake views, while the wetter months bring greener forest but muddier, harder trails. Because the park is remote and chimpanzee activities are scheduled around the animals, it is worth discussing timing with an operator before you book.

Yes. Ecological Wilderness Adventure is a TATO-licensed Tanzania and East Africa safari operator and can tailor a Mahale itinerary, including chimpanzee trekking and the lake and flight or boat logistics, and quote it on request.