Embark on a 10-day safari adventure that takes you deep into Tanzania’s most pristine and remote national parks – Katavi, Mahale, and Gombe. This journey is designed for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. In these untouched wildernesses, you will experience thrilling game drives, chimpanzee trekking, breathtaking landscapes, and serene lakeside views. With an abundance of wildlife, beautiful forests, and unspoiled nature, this safari offers a rare chance to explore some of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets.
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Fly to Katavi National Park
- Upon arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your safari guide. After a short introduction, you’ll take a scenic flight to Katavi National Park, one of Tanzania’s most remote and untouched wildlife havens. On arrival, you’ll head to your lodge or camp in the heart of the park, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, your safari begins with a thrilling game drive across Katavi’s vast wilderness, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and the famous Katavi hippos. As the sun sets, you’ll return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Katavi
- After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a full-day game drive in Katavi National Park. Katavi is one of the most pristine and untouched parks in Tanzania, offering you the opportunity to witness large populations of wildlife in their natural habitats. During the game drive, expect to see herds of elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species, along with the chance to spot predators like lions and hyenas. A packed picnic lunch will be served in the park as you continue your exploration. In the evening, return to your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Katavi – Mahale Mountains
- After breakfast, you will enjoy a morning game drive in Katavi before transferring to Mahale Mountains National Park. Depending on availability, you will either fly or drive to Mahale, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your lakeside lodge and have some time to relax and take in the stunning views of the lake and mountains. In the afternoon, you can unwind by the lake or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the park. Dinner and overnight will be at your lodge.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale
- Today is dedicated to one of the most thrilling experiences of the safari – chimpanzee trekking. After breakfast, your guide will take you to the park’s chimpanzee trekking area, where you’ll venture into the forests of Mahale in search of the resident chimpanzee troops. Mahale is home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees, and with a bit of luck, you’ll have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat, where you can witness their social behavior and playful interactions. After trekking, you’ll have a packed lunch in the park and spend the afternoon either relaxing by the lake or swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Full Day in Mahale Mountains
- After breakfast, you have the option to embark on another chimpanzee trekking adventure or explore the park further. You may also opt for a nature walk through the lush forests, where your guide will point out interesting flora and fauna. For those who enjoy birdwatching, Mahale is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it a haven for birders. In the afternoon, a boat ride on Lake Tanganyika offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a relaxing escape. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 6: Mahale – Gombe Stream National Park
- Following breakfast, you’ll depart Mahale and take a boat transfer to Gombe Stream National Park, a short distance away. Known for its famous chimpanzee populations and its role in Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research, Gombe offers another opportunity to track and observe chimpanzees. After arriving at your lodge, you can relax and enjoy the serene lake views before heading out for an afternoon exploration of the park. This is an ideal time to observe the abundant birdlife and other wildlife. Dinner and overnight will be at your lodge near the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe Stream
- Gombe is one of the most famous parks in the world for chimpanzee trekking. After breakfast, you’ll head out into the park with your guide for a trekking experience to track the resident chimpanzee families. Known for their intelligence and social behaviors, the chimpanzees at Gombe offer an unforgettable experience. You’ll observe their natural behaviors, from playing to foraging for food. Enjoy a packed lunch during the trek or return to your lodge for lunch before relaxing or swimming in the lake. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 8: Gombe Stream – Return to Katavi
- After breakfast, you’ll depart Gombe Stream and return by boat to Katavi National Park. Once back, you’ll continue your exploration of this remote and wild park, with an afternoon game drive. The park’s landscapes range from wetlands to savannahs, offering a variety of ecosystems to explore. Expect to see abundant wildlife including predators, elephants, and large herds of buffaloes. Dinner and overnight at your lodge in Katavi.
Day 9: Full Day Game Drives in Katavi
- Today, you’ll enjoy a full day of game drives in Katavi National Park. The park is known for its large herds of elephants, hippos, and other wildlife, and it offers an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography and spotting elusive predators. After a picnic lunch in the park, continue your exploration, delving deeper into the park’s remote corners. Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and another peaceful night under the stars.
Day 10: Departure from Katavi to Dar es Salaam
- On your final day, you’ll enjoy a last morning game drive in Katavi, taking in the park’s wildlife one final time. Afterward, enjoy lunch before flying back to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight or onward travel.
Inclusions:
- All park entry fees and camping fees
- Domestic flights (Dar es Salaam to Katavi, Katavi to Mahale, Gombe to Katavi)
- Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale and Gombe
- Game drives in Katavi, Mahale, and Gombe
- Boat rides on Lake Tanganyika
- Accommodation (lodges or camps) as per the itinerary
- All meals as per the itinerary
- Professional safari guide and driver
- Complimentary bottled water during safari
Exclusions:
- International flights
- Visas, vaccinations, and travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips)
- Optional activities outside of the standard itinerary
- Alcoholic beverages
This 10-day safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore three of Tanzania’s most remote and wildlife-rich parks, filled with adventures from chimpanzee trekking to thrilling game drives in untamed wilderness. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking an authentic and unforgettable Tanzanian safari experience.
