Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park

Embarking on chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park takes you deep into one of Tanzania’s most remote and breathtaking national parks. Nestled along the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika within the Albertine Rift, this park covers 1,650 square kilometers and rises to an impressive 2,462 meters above sea level. Gazetted in 1985, Mahale Mountains represents the western limit of the Greater Mahale Ecosystem and is a vital conservation area within the Albertine Rift Biodiversity Hotspot.

Mahale Mountains National Park is home to over 1,000 chimpanzees, including the well-known Mimikire clan, habituated by researchers since 1965. This remarkable group consists of around 56 individuals. For wildlife enthusiasts, Mahale is one of the top destinations in East Africa to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

The Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale usually begins early in the morning. After a briefing at the park headquarters, you join a small group of six people and head into the forest when the chimpanzees are most active. The forest comes alive with the sounds of rustling leaves, calls, and the chatter of wildlife, creating a truly immersive experience.

Trekking here offers higher chances of chimpanzee sightings that last longer than in other parks, such as Gombe. The park is ecologically diverse, featuring miombo forest, lowland Kasoge forest, and montane rainforest, all rich in plants and wildlife.

Beyond chimpanzees, Mahale is home to other fascinating primates, including red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys, as well as giant squirrels, red-legged sun squirrels, bushy-tailed mongooses, and brush-tailed porcupines. The best time to track these animals is during the wet season when fruits are abundant, making the primates easier to find.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking

The ideal time for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park is during the rainy season (November to mid-May). The lush greenery during this period makes the scenery magical, and the chimpanzees are particularly active.

The dry season (May to October) is also excellent for trekking. Trails are easier to navigate, and the chimpanzees can be spotted more easily as they forage for fruit. Ultimately, Mahale allows for chimpanzee encounters year-round, so no matter when you visit, adventure awaits.

How to Reach Mahale Mountains National Park

Getting to Mahale is part of the adventure itself. You can reach the park by:

• Scheduled or charter flights from Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, or Arusha.
• Train travel from Dar es Salaam on either a fast or slow train.
• Road trips from neighboring countries like Burundi or Zambia.

Experiya Tour Company can help organize your transfers and ensure your journey to Mahale is smooth and stress-free.

Other Activities in Mahale Mountains

Chimpanzee trekking is just the beginning. Mahale Mountains National Park offers a variety of other activities that make your visit unforgettable:

Bird Watching

The forests and lakeshore of Mahale are a paradise for bird lovers. Walk along trails near the main lodges to spot species like red-collared widowbirds, speckled mousebirds, crowned eagles, bee-eaters, rollers, crested guineafowl, Ross’ turacos, white-browed robin-chats, red-winged starlings, violet-backed starlings, and vibrant parrots.

Hiking

Adventurers can hike to Mount Nkungwe, the park’s towering peak and a site of spiritual significance to the Tongwe people. This 2–3 day hike passes through high grass, forests, and sweeping landscapes, accompanied by an armed park ranger for safety. The hike offers stunning views and the chance to see abundant wildlife along the way.

Primate Walks

Mahale is home to numerous playful primates. Besides chimpanzees, you may encounter red colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and Angolan black-and-white colobus monkeys. Watching them swing, play, and groom their young provides a glimpse into the rich social lives of these intelligent animals. Wet and fruit-rich seasons are ideal for spotting them.

Cultural Visits

The park is surrounded by local communities living in harmony with wildlife. Cultural visits allow you to learn how these communities coexist with the chimpanzees and preserve their natural environment.

Where to Stay in Mahale Mountains

Accommodation in Mahale ranges from luxury lodges to comfortable camps. Experiya Tour Company can help you choose the perfect option based on your preferences and budget. Popular choices include:

• Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge – luxury with lake views.
• Greystoke Mahale Camp – intimate and eco-friendly.
• Kungwe Beach Lodge – perfect for relaxation and lakeside scenery.

No matter where you stay, each lodge offers unique access to the park’s wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Experiya Tour Company ensures your chimpanzee trekking adventure in Mahale Mountains National Park is seamless, immersive, and unforgettable allowing you to experience one of East Africa’s most remote and wildlife-rich destinations like a true explorer.