Chimps of Mahale Mountains

Depart from Arusha on a flight charter service at 08:00, which arrives at the airstrip in Mahale shortly after noon. Enjoy a light snack on the dhow as you head down the lake to Greystoke Mahale camp (about 90 minutes). Settle into camp, relax or loosen up with a short walk in the forest followed by sundowners looking across Lake Tanganyika.

As news comes in from the trackers, head off into the forest after a leisurely breakfast in search of your first group of chimps. As well as time spent watching the chimps as they play, groom and possibly even hunt, you should see other forest game as well as amazing birds, butterflies and plants. Treks can be lengthy but you'll usually return to camp for lunch, a siesta or swim. Late afternoon might see you head out for a spot of fishing or bird-watching from the dhow. You'll be able to spend time chimp trekking on each full day you're in Mahale. In addition there'll be the chance to go for deep water swims off the dhow, fish in the lake, kayak, or just head up to one of the amazing waterfall pools in a quiet corner of the forest. This is a place for healthy activity and relaxation, both! The chill-out deck of your room is perfect for an afternoon with a book or just to ponder the view of Lake Tanganyika and the endless horizon.

Check out for an early boat ride back to the airstrip, where you will fly to Dar es Salaam to connect with your onward arrangements. Other flights are possible if you would like to extend your trip to the Serengeti, and Zanzibar is an easy 1-hour flight from Dar es Salaam.