Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Tanzania’s most remote and pristine wilderness areas. This 8-day safari takes you to two of the country’s hidden gems, Katavi National Park and the Mahale Mountains National Park, offering an exclusive, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Starting in Katavi, you’ll experience the raw beauty of one of Tanzania’s least-visited parks, teeming with wildlife including elephants, lions, and buffaloes. Explore the park’s vast savannahs and floodplains on exciting game drives, and witness the abundance of wildlife in its untouched environment.
Next, travel to Mahale Mountains, a haven for chimpanzee trekking, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to track and observe one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Hike through the lush forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Tanganyika. This adventure also includes a visit to Gombe Stream National Park, renowned for its chimpanzee research and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Relax and unwind by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, and enjoy a range of activities, including boat rides and nature walks. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or seeking an adventurous escape from the crowds, this safari offers an intimate, immersive experience in some of Tanzania’s most remote and scenic landscapes.
Tour Plan:
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Flight to Katavi National Park
- Upon your arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide. From there, you’ll board a domestic flight to Katavi National Park, one of Tanzania’s most remote wildlife areas. On arrival, you’ll transfer to your lodge for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in the park, where you will encounter an array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and hippos. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Katavi National Park
- After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a full-day game drive in Katavi National Park, famous for its vast wilderness and diverse wildlife. As you explore the park, you will see herds of elephants, buffaloes, and zebras, and if you’re lucky, spot predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas. A picnic lunch will be served in the park, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Katavi. In the evening, return to your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Katavi – Mahale Mountains
- After breakfast, you will take a scenic flight or drive to Mahale Mountains National Park, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika. On arrival, you will be transferred to your lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, you can unwind by the lake or take a boat ride for a relaxing experience before dinner and overnight at your lakeside lodge.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains
- Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out for chimpanzee trekking in the forests of Mahale. The park is home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees, and you’ll have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. Your guide will help you track and get as close as possible to these fascinating creatures. After a thrilling trek, return to the lodge for lunch, followed by time to relax or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 5: Full-Day Chimpanzee Trekking & Exploration of Mahale
- Today, you’ll have the option for another chimpanzee trekking experience or to explore Mahale’s lush forests and diverse flora and fauna. Your guide will lead you on a scenic walk through the rainforest, offering more opportunities for wildlife and bird sightings. You can also opt to relax by the lake or take part in water activities like kayaking or swimming. A picnic lunch will be served in the park, and in the evening, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 6: Mahale – Gombe Stream National Park
- After breakfast, you’ll take a boat transfer to Gombe Stream National Park, one of the best-known parks in the world for chimpanzee research, made famous by the pioneering work of Dr. Jane Goodall. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your lodge and have lunch before heading out for an afternoon game drive or nature walk. Gombe is rich in biodiversity, with opportunities to spot various species of primates, birds, and other wildlife. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe
- Today’s adventure takes you on another exciting chimpanzee trekking expedition in Gombe Stream. With your guide, you will track and observe the park’s resident chimpanzee families, learning about their behaviors and social structure. After trekking, enjoy a picnic lunch or return to the lodge for a leisurely afternoon. Gombe offers spectacular views of Lake Tanganyika, and you may also opt to enjoy a boat ride or take in the surroundings. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Day 8: Gombe Stream – Return to Dar es Salaam
- After breakfast, you’ll have time for a final game drive or nature walk in Gombe. Then, return by boat to the mainland, where you’ll board a flight back to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight home or onward travel.
Inclusions:
- All park entry 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 transfers and boat rides on Lake Tanganyika
- Accommodation (lodges/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 8-day safari offers an immersive wilderness experience in some of Tanzania’s most remote and pristine parks. Whether tracking chimpanzees in Mahale and Gombe or exploring the wildlife-rich Katavi National Park, you’ll be treated to some of the best nature encounters in Africa.
