Discover the hidden gems of Tanzania on a 9-day Western Tanzania Safari, taking you off the beaten path to explore remote and pristine wildlife areas. Visit the lesser-known but stunning Katavi National Park and Mahale Mountains, home to dense wildlife populations, including chimpanzees, elephants, and lions, offering an authentic and unique safari experience.
This adventure blends thrilling game drives, boat safaris, and chimpanzee trekking, giving you a deeper connection to nature. With expert guides and exclusive lodges, this safari is ideal for those looking to explore unspoiled wilderness and experience Tanzania’s rich biodiversity beyond the classic routes.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) you will be met and transferred to Arusha to your hotel to rest for the night.
Overnight in Moshi/Arusha
You’re standing on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, taking in its stunning beauty. Now, turn around and look at the mountains rising up behind you. That’s Mahale Mountain National Park, and it’s one of the coolest places in Africa to see chimps in the wild.
But chimps aren’t the only reason to visit. You can go on walking safaris to spot all sorts of animals, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, hike up Mount Nkungwe. At 2460 meters, it’s the tallest of the six peaks in the Mahale range. And don’t forget about the lake itself – it’s perfect for fishing and snorkeling.
Now, let’s talk wildlife. There are over 900 chimps in the park, which is pretty amazing. But you might also spot leopards, these cute little blue duikers (they’re like tiny antelopes), and red colobus monkeys swinging through the trees. If you’re really lucky, you might even see a giant pangolin – they’re like armored anteaters and they’re super rare.
And that’s not all. The park is also home to some of Africa’s most iconic animals: lions, elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes. Down by the water, you’ve got hippos and crocs, and if you keep your eyes peeled, you might spot some playful otters. Oh, and if you’re into birds, you’re in for a treat – there are tons of different species to see.
So yeah, Mahale Mountain National Park? It’s basically a nature lover’s paradise.
Gombe Stream National Park might be Tanzania’s tiniest, but don’t let its size fool you. This 52 square kilometer gem is bursting with primate life. We’re talking chimpanzees, red colobus, red-tail, and blue monkeys – it’s like a real-life monkey kingdom!
Now, you’ve probably heard of Jane Goodall, right? Well, this is her stomping ground. Her groundbreaking work with wild chimps put Gombe on the map. It’s pretty cool to think you’re walking in the footsteps of such a legend.
Getting there’s a bit of an adventure. You can only reach the park by boat from Kigoma town. But trust me, it’s worth the trip. The forests are thick and teeming with life. Bird nerds, you’re in for a treat – the place is a paradise for feathered friends.
If you’re up for some action, chimp tracking is the way to go. It’s like hide and seek, but with our hairy cousins. For a change of pace, take a stroll along the lakeshore or hike up to Jane’s Peak for some killer views. Oh, and don’t miss Kakombe Waterfall – it’s a real showstopper.
So yeah, Gombe might be small, but it packs a punch. It’s one of those places that’ll stick with you long after you’ve left. Who knows, you might even channel your inner Jane Goodall while you’re there!
Today you will be transferred back to Arusha Airport (ARK) for overnight/departure.
