6-Day Katavi Wilderness Safari

Track Wild Chimpanzees in a Paradise Where the Forest Meets the Lake

Overview

Nestled on the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most breathtaking hidden gems. It is the best place in Africa to track wild chimpanzees on foot in their natural habitat. This 5-day journey offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with nature, away from the crowds.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arusha – Fly to Mahale – Lake Arrival by Boat

Catch a morning scheduled flight from Arusha to Kigoma, then transfer by boat (or light aircraft, depending on conditions) along the shores of Lake Tanganyika to your camp in Mahale Mountains National Park. The experience begins with a scenic boat cruise and warm welcome to your lodge.

Settle in, enjoy lunch, and relax on the beach or take a short forest walk before dinner.

Day 2–5: Explore the Wild Heart of Katavi

Spend the next three days tracking wild chimpanzees through the lush tropical forests of the Mahale Mountains. The chimpanzee troops are habituated to humans, allowing for rare, up-close interactions. Trekking times vary from 1–5 hours depending on their movement.

In addition to chimp trekking, enjoy:

  • Guided nature walks through the forest and along the lake

  • Swimming or kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika

  • Sundowners on the beach and storytelling under the stars

  • Observing other wildlife such as colobus monkeys, warthogs, and diverse birdlife

Each day ends with a hearty dinner and a night under the stars in this off-grid paradise.

Day 5: Return to Arusha

After a relaxed breakfast, transfer by boat to the Mahale airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Arusha. Arrive in the afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or connection to your onward flight.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush or return to camp for a hot meal before heading back out for an afternoon game drive.

After your safari, drive to your lodge in Karatu for a relaxed evening.

Return to Arusha in the afternoon for your onward flight or next safari destination.

Booking Form

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  • Wildlife Safari
  • Mountain Trekking
  • Beach Holiday (Zanzibar)
  • Cultural Experience
  • Custom Combination
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5

Safari Includes

Safari Excludes

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This 4-day safari offers a rich blend of landscapes and wildlife, focusing on two of Northern Tanzania’s iconic parks.

Booking Form

Success
Thank you! Form submitted successfully.
This field is required
This field is required
This field is required
This field is required
This field is required
  • Wildlife Safari
  • Mountain Trekking
  • Beach Holiday (Zanzibar)
  • Cultural Experience
  • Custom Combination
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5