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.
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Flight to Katavi National Park
Travel Details:
Flight: Approximately 3 hours from Dar es Salaam to Katavi National Park (approximately 1,000 km by air).
Drive: Short drive (15–20 minutes, 10 km) from Katavi airstrip to your lodge.
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Dar es Salaam International Airport. After introductions and a brief orientation, you’ll board a scenic domestic flight to Katavi National Park, one of Tanzania’s most untouched and remote wildlife areas. The flight takes approximately 3 hours, covering nearly 1,000 km, giving you stunning aerial views of the landscape below.
Upon landing, a short 15-minute drive (10 km) will take you to your lodge nestled in the heart of Katavi’s wilderness. After a delightful lunch, you’ll set out on your first game drive across Katavi’s expansive plains. Keep your camera ready to capture herds of elephants, towering giraffes, and pods of Katavi’s famed hippos. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Katavi National Park
Travel Details:
Game Drive: Full-day drive covering approximately 50–80 km within the park, depending on animal sightings and exploration areas.
Activities: Explore the park’s wilderness, enjoy a picnic lunch, and return to your lodge by evening.
Overnight: Lodge in Katavi National Park.
The day begins with the golden rays of the sun lighting up the Katavi landscape. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll venture out for a full-day game drive, immersing yourself in the park’s vast wilderness. Depending on the animal sightings, you’ll cover 50–80 km as you traverse the savannahs, wetlands, and woodlands.
Katavi’s wildlife is breathtaking: massive herds of buffaloes, playful zebras, and elusive predators like lions and leopards call this park home. A picnic lunch under the shade of acacia trees provides the perfect pause to savor the surroundings. By evening, you’ll return to your lodge, where a sumptuous dinner awaits.
Day 3: Katavi – Mahale Mountains
Travel Details:
Flight: Approximately 1 hour (200 km by air) from Katavi to Mahale Mountains.
Boat Transfer: 1–2 hours (20–30 km) from Mahale airstrip to the lakeside lodge.
Activities: Afternoon relaxation or optional boat ride on Lake Tanganyika.
Overnight: Lodge in Mahale Mountains National Park.
After breakfast, bid farewell to Katavi as you take a scenic 1-hour flight (200 km) to Mahale Mountains National Park, perched along the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika. Upon arrival, a leisurely boat transfer of about 1–2 hours (20–30 km) will lead you to your lakeside lodge. The afternoon is yours to relax and soak in the stunning views of the lake and mountains. For those seeking adventure, a boat ride on Lake Tanganyika offers a tranquil escape. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner by the lake and let the gentle waves lull you to sleep.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains
Travel Details:
Hiking Distance: Trekking routes vary but are typically 3–8 km depending on chimpanzee locations.
Duration: 3–6 hours, including chimpanzee observations.
Activities: Chimpanzee trekking and relaxation by the lake.
Overnight: Lodge in Mahale Mountains National Park.
Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy an early breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience. With your guide leading the way, you’ll hike 3–8 km through Mahale’s lush forests, tracking the park’s vibrant chimpanzee populations. Witness the chimps in their natural habitat as they swing through trees, forage for food, and interact in complex social groups. After this thrilling encounter, return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika or relaxing by the shore. Dinner and a restful night at the lodge complete this extraordinary day.
Day 5: Full-Day Exploration of Mahale Mountains
Travel Details:
Hiking Distance: 5–10 km depending on exploration activities.
Duration: 4–6 hours for trekking or walking tours.
Activities: Chimpanzee trekking or rainforest exploration, optional lake activities.
Overnight: Lodge in Mahale Mountains National Park.
After breakfast, you have the option of a second chimpanzee trek or a guided nature walk through Mahale’s rainforest, where your guide will introduce you to the park’s unique flora and fauna. Covering 5–10 km of trails, you’ll encounter colorful birds, butterflies, and perhaps even other primates. For a change of pace, you might opt for water-based activities such as kayaking or a scenic boat ride on Lake Tanganyika. A picnic lunch amidst nature adds to the adventure. As the day ends, enjoy dinner under the stars at your lakeside lodge.
Day 6: Mahale – Gombe Stream National Park
Travel Details:
Boat Transfer: Approximately 5–6 hours (150 km) across Lake Tanganyika to Gombe Stream National Park.
Short Walk: A 1–2 km walk to your lodge upon arrival.
Activities: Afternoon game drive or nature walk.
Overnight: Lodge in Gombe Stream National Park.
Today, you’ll embark on a captivating journey across Lake Tanganyika. After breakfast, a 5–6-hour boat transfer (150 km) takes you north to Gombe Stream National Park, made famous by Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking chimpanzee research. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the lake. Alternatively, take a nature walk to explore Gombe’s biodiversity, where you might encounter vervet monkeys, baboons, and an array of bird species. End the day with dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe Stream
Travel Details:
Hiking Distance: Typically 3–6 km depending on chimpanzee locations.
Duration: 3–5 hours, including time observing the chimps.
Activities: Chimpanzee trekking and optional boat ride or leisure by the lake.
Overnight: Lodge in Gombe Stream National Park.
Another exciting day of chimpanzee trekking awaits! After breakfast, you’ll set off on a guided trek into Gombe’s dense forests. Covering 3–6 km on foot, you’ll follow the calls and movements of the park’s resident chimps, observing their fascinating behaviors up close. A packed picnic lunch provides a refreshing break amidst the forest’s tranquility. In the afternoon, take in the serene beauty of Lake Tanganyika with a boat ride or simply unwind at your lodge. Dinner and overnight at Gombe.
Day 8: Gombe Stream – Return to Dar es Salaam
Travel Details:
Boat Transfer: 1–2 hours (20–30 km) from Gombe to Kigoma.
Flight: Approximately 3 hours (1,200 km by air) from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam.
Drive: Short transfer to the airport or your onward destination.
Activities: Morning nature walk or game drive before departure.
Your final day begins with a leisurely breakfast and a chance for one last nature walk or game drive in Gombe. A short boat transfer (1–2 hours, 20–30 km) will bring you back to the mainland, where you’ll board a domestic flight from Kigoma to Dar es Salaam (approximately 3 hours, 1,200 km by air). Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, you’ll be transferred to the international terminal for your flight home or your next destination, marking the end of a truly unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s wild and remote parks.
What’s Included:
-Accommodation: Lodges and camps as specified in the itinerary.
-Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari and trekking activities.
-Transportation:
-Domestic flights (Dar es Salaam–Katavi, Katavi–Mahale, and Kigoma–Dar es Salaam).
-Boat transfers within Lake Tanganyika (Mahale to Gombe and return to the mainland).
-Game drives and transfers in 4×4 safari vehicles with a professional driver-guide.
-Activities:
-Game drives in Katavi National Park.
-Chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks.
-Guided nature walks and forest exploration.
-Boat rides and optional water activities at Lake Tanganyika.
-Park Fees: Entry fees to Katavi, Mahale, and Gombe parks.
-Guide Services: Professional and knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
-Drinking Water: Bottled water provided during activities and transfers.
-Government Taxes and Levies: All applicable taxes and fees.
What’s Not Included:
-International Flights: To and from Dar es Salaam.
-Visas: Tanzania entry visa fees.
-Optional Activities: Additional excursions or activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., kayaking or private boat rides).
-Travel Insurance: Personal travel, medical, and evacuation insurance.
-Tips and Gratuities: For guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
-Personal Expenses:
-Laundry services.
-Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.
-Telephone calls and souvenirs.
-PCR/Antigen Tests: COVID-19 testing (if required).
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.
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