WESTERN TANZANIA

MAHALE
Mahale Mountains National Park lies on the western border of Tanzania along the crystal blue waters of Lake Tanganyika. It is home to a thriving population of chimpanzees. This roadless national park is completely off the beaten path, and is only accessible by boat and aircraft. Chimp-trekking expeditions offer an opportunity to spend an hour observing them go through their daily routine. At times, they make it all the way down into camp! A visit to the Mahale Mountains is not just about chimpanzees, even though they are an absolute highlight. Taking a hike through thick forest to a natural pool, kayaking in the lake’s waters, sailing along its shoreline, and fishing are other great ways to discover the magic of this secluded paradise..

MAHALE
Mahale experiences two seasons. The dry season lasts from June to October, and the green season lasts from November to May. Throughout the dry season, temperatures slowly increase, and wild chimps spend more time closer to camp as preferred fruits come into season. Mahale’s green season begins with the first rains in November, which bring clear skies and vibrant colors to the forest canopy in the form of butterflies, wildflowers, and brilliant birds. During the green season, chimpanzee expeditions usually require guests to travel longer distances into the Mahale Mountains. Mahale remains closed from March until May, when logistics become too difficult due to the rains.

KATAVI
Katavi experiences two drastic seasons. The dry season lasts from June to October, and the green season lasts from November to May. Katavi’s harsh wilderness is echoed in the year’s seasonal extremes. As the dry season progresses into September and October, temperatures rise and the water from rivers and lakes evaporates. November’s rains bring relief to Katavi’s animals and transform its parched landscape, lasting into May or June. Katavi remains closed from November to May when logistics become too difficult due to the rains.

MAHALE
Wild chimpanzees definitely take center stage at Mahale, but it is also home to bushbucks, bushpigs, and a beautiful array of birds and butterflies. It is a perfect destination for primate enthusiasts, as nine additional primate species occur here, including yellow baboons, red colobus monkeys, red-tailed moneys, and silver monkeys.

KATAVI
The tall grass plains of Katavi are home to massive herds of zebras, buffalo, and other plains game. During the green season, river systems overflow into floodplains and lakes where hippos and crocs live side by side. As the dry season progresses, these pools become smaller, exposing the backs of hippos and forcing crocodiles into muddy underground caves. The lack of water draws herds of elephants and buffalo to the riverbanks. Lion prides and hyenas also make the most of this time.