Western Tanzania · Chimpanzee Trekking
Gombe-Mahale (Chimps)
Step beyond the classic safari circuit into rainforest, mountain trails and the shores of Lake Tanganyika, with chimpanzee trekking at the heart of the experience.
A Different Side of Tanzania
Into the Forests of Gombe & Mahale
Gombe and Mahale offer a very different rhythm from the open plains: intimate forest walks, wild chimpanzees and a remote lakeside setting. It is an exceptional extension to a private Tanzania safari.
Gombe Streams
Gombe Streams National Park
Gombe is Tanzania’s smallest national park and lies along Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. It is renowned for habituated chimpanzees and pioneering behavioural research. Forest trekking can be paired with hiking, swimming and snorkelling.
Mahale Mountains
Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale combines lush rainforest, mountain trails and Lake Tanganyika beaches. Guides follow signs such as nests and fruit remains before leading you toward chimpanzee groups. The setting makes every trek feel immersive and wonderfully remote.
The experience
More Than Chimpanzee Trekking
01 · Chimpanzee trekking
Follow experienced guides through rainforest trails in search of habituated groups.
02 · Forest hiking
Explore mountain paths, dense forest and bamboo-covered ridges at a slower pace.
03 · Lake Tanganyika
Combine trekking with swimming, snorkelling and quiet time beside the lake.
04 · Cultural landscape
Discover the landscape and traditions associated with the Tongwe people.
Beyond the wildlife
Forest, Mountains & the Tongwe Story
The extension is about the landscape as much as the animals. In Mahale, rainforest trails lead toward grassy ridges and alpine bamboo, while the surrounding area carries the history and traditions of the Tongwe people. Time on Lake Tanganyika adds a natural sense of escape.
When to go
Best Time for Forest Walks
May–October is generally the strongest period for forest walks in Mahale. We can also plan the extension around the timing and pace of your wider Tanzania safari.
Make it part of your journey
Why Add Gombe-Mahale to Your Safari?
Move from open plains and game drives into rainforest, mountains and Lake Tanganyika. We can build Gombe-Mahale before or after your main safari, or combine it with Zanzibar or Kilimanjaro.
Gombe-Mahale Questions
Yes. It changes the pace completely, moving from open plains and game drives into rainforest, mountains and Lake Tanganyika.
Yes. We can tailor the routing, accommodation and trekking days around your main Tanzania safari.
Yes. We can tailor the routing, accommodation and trekking days around your main Tanzania safari.
Depending on location and conditions, hiking, swimming and snorkelling can complement the forest experience.
Depending on location and conditions, hiking, swimming and snorkelling can complement the forest experience.
Plan Your Adventure
Let our specialists craft your bespoke itinerary.
