Mahale Mountain National park
VerifiedNational Park
Kigoma Region, Tanzania

Mahale Mountain National park

A remote Tanzanian national park famous for its wild chimpanzee populations and pristine Lake Tanganyika beaches.

Destination

Discover Mahale Mountain National park

Mahale Mountains National Park is located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. It is renowned for its population of wild chimpanzees and its unique combination of mountain forest and lakeside beach environments. The park is accessible only by boat or light aircraft, ensuring a remote and exclusive safari experience.

Mahale Mountain National park

National Park

Place

Tanzania

Country

Kigoma Region

Region

Why visit

What makes this place special

Offers one of the most intimate and exclusive chimpanzee tracking experiences in Africa, combined with the rare opportunity to relax on tropical-style beaches after forest treks.

01

Chimpanzee trekking

02

Lake Tanganyika shoreline

03

Snorkeling in clear waters

04

Forest canopy birdwatching

05

Sunset dhow cruises

06

Remote wilderness experience

Planning

Know before you go

Best time to visit

The dry season is the optimal time for chimpanzee trekking and forest hiking.

January

February

March

April

May

4 out of 5 season suitability

Start of the dry season with lush scenery.

June

5 out of 5 season suitability

Excellent dry conditions for trekking.

July

5 out of 5 season suitability

Peak season for chimpanzee viewing.

August

5 out of 5 season suitability

Peak season for chimpanzee viewing.

September

5 out of 5 season suitability

Dry weather makes forest trails accessible.

October

4 out of 5 season suitability

Good conditions before the rains arrive.

November

December

Access is primarily via light aircraft from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to the park's airstrip, followed by a boat transfer. Park permits are required for chimpanzee trekking and should be booked well in advance. The park is remote and lacks road access.

Map

Landscape and region