Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale National Park
Adventure Safaris — Tanzania | Independent Travel
Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s mostremote parks, locatedalong the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika in the Uvinza District of the Kigoma Region. The park takes itsname fromthe Mahale Mountain range that lies within its borders and boasts a number of distinctivefeatures. Most visitors reach Mahale through an all-inclusive 3- or 4-night fly-in package departingfrom Arusha. These packages usually coverround-trip flights to Kalilani airstrip, situated just outside the park, accommodations at one of two exclusive lodges by the lake,and a 90-minute boat transfer from the airstrip to the lodge. For travellers opting for a self-drive adventure, the recommended route begins in Dar es Salaam and passes through Mbeya and Mpanda before reaching Kigoma. This journey generally spans about five days, with opportunities to stopat various parks en route.
What to do in Mahale National Park
Thepark provides an unforgettable experience with activities such as chimpanzee trekking, hiking through scenic landscapes, snorkeling in clear waters,sport fishing, tranquilboat rides, overnightfly camping, and bird watching. Officially designated as a National Park in 1985, it covers an expansive area of 1,613 square kilometres—1,517 square kilometres of land and 96 square kilometres of water.Mahale is a sanctuary for a rich variety of wildlife, including eight (and potentially nine) primate species. Beyond the iconic chimpanzees, you can encounteryellow baboons, blue monkeys, red colobus, pied colobus, vervet monkeys, and two or three distinctspecies of Galago.
Camping in Mahale Mountains National Park
Camping is allowed in Mahale Mountains National Park, which offers options for self-catering bandas as well as overnight camping during treks, particularly for the multi-day ascent of Mount Nkungwe. Additionally, the park features various permanent tented camps and lodges managed by private operators.
Accommodation in Mahale National Park.
Overnight trekking camps involve multi-dayhikes, such as climbing Mount Nkungwe, where you need to bringyour own camping gear and supplies to stay overnight at designated spots. Self-catering bandas are available in the park, featuring fullyequipped kitchens for those who enjoy cooking their own meals. You can also hire cooks formeal preparation, providinga budget-friendly alternative. Tentedcamps and lodges cater to those seekinga more curated experience. Options include private luxury accommodations like Nomad Safaris Luxury Tented Camp and Greystoke Mahale, offering an array of facilities and services. Fly campingis another option for visitors looking fora more private and remote adventure within the park.
Essential Information Before Visiting Mahale National Park
Optimal Visiting Time: The dry season, running from June to October, is the best period for camping. During this time, chimpanzees are bothmore active and easier to observe, while the hiking trails are in better condition.
Necessary Equipment:Campers should come prepared withtheir own camping gear and food provisions. Some local guides or park staff might assist with cooking, typicallyfor an additional fee.
Getting There: Mahale Mountains National Park is a remote destination without internal roads, makingit accessibleonly by light aircraft or boat. This isolation promises visitors a peacefuland authentic naturalexperience.
Park Guidelines: Campers must stay within designated areas from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. All food and waste should be securely managed and disposed of correctly, as the park’schimpanzees are naturally curiousand vulnerable to human-related health risks.