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.
10-Day Tanzania Wilderness Safari: Katavi, Mahale & Gombe
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Fly to Katavi National Park
Travel Time: 4-5 hours (flight)
Distance: Approximately 830 km by air
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.
Overnight:
- Chada Katavi Camp – A luxurious and intimate tented camp offering spectacular views of the Katavi plains.
- Katavi Wildlife Camp – A comfortable and well-situated camp providing a more affordable option without compromising on proximity to the action.
Meals Plan: Lunch & Dinner.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives in Katavi
Driving Distance: 70-100 km (within the park)
Game Drive Duration: Full day
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 evening.
Accommodation: Chada Katavi Camp
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 3: Katavi – Mahale Mountains
Travel Time: 1-2 hours (flight) + 1-1.5 hours (boat ride)
Distance: Approximately 190 km by air and 15-20 km by boat
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.
Accommodation: Chada Katavi Camp
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale
Hiking Distance: 5-10 km (moderate trek duration: 3-5 hours)
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. 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.
Accommodation: Chada Katavi Camp
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 5: Full Day in Mahale Mountains
Hiking Distance: 4-8 km (moderate trek duration: 2-4 hours)
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. In the afternoon, a boat ride on Lake Tanganyika offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a relaxing escape.
Accommodation: Greystoke Mahale
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 6: Mahale – Gombe Stream National Park
Travel Time: 2-3 hours (boat ride)
Distance: Approximately 60-100 km by boat
Following breakfast, you’ll depart Mahale and take a boat transfer to Gombe Stream National Park. 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.
Accommodation: Greystoke Mahale
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe Stream
Hiking Distance: 3-8 km (moderate trek duration: 3-5 hours)
After breakfast, you’ll head out into the park with your guide for a trekking experience to track the resident chimpanzee families. Enjoy a packed lunch during the trek or return to your lodge for lunch before relaxing or swimming in the lake.
Accommodation: Greystoke Mahale
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 8: Gombe Stream – Return to Katavi
Travel Time: 2-3 hours (boat and flight)
Distance: Approximately 150-200 km
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.
Accommodation: Mbalimbali Gombe Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 9: Full Day Game Drives in Katavi
Driving Distance: 70-100 km (within the park)
Game Drive Duration: Full day
Today, you’ll enjoy a full day of game drives in Katavi National Park. After a picnic lunch in the park, continue your exploration. Return to your lodge for dinner and another peaceful night.
Accommodation: Mbalimbali Gombe Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
Day 10: Departure from Katavi to Dar es Salaam
Travel Time: 4-5 hours (flight)
Distance: Approximately 830 km by air
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, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your international flight or onward travel.
Meals Plan: Breakfast & Lunch.
Inclusions
-Accommodation:
-Lodging as per itinerary in Katavi, Mahale, and Gombe Stream National Parks.
-Meals:
-Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari.
-Transportation:
-Domestic flights (Dar es Salaam to Katavi, Katavi to Mahale, and return).
-Boat transfers within Mahale and Gombe Stream National Parks.
-4×4 safari vehicles for game drives, fully equipped with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing.
-Activities:
-All game drives, chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and boat rides as outlined in the itinerary.
-Professional Guides:
-Experienced, English-speaking safari guides.
-Park Fees:
-All national park entry fees, conservation fees, and trekking permits.
-Drinking Water:
-Bottled water during game drives and transfers.
Exclusions
-International Flights:
-Flights to and from Dar es Salaam.
-Visa Fees:
-Tanzania visa fees (if applicable).
-Travel Insurance:
-Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
-Personal Expenses:
-Laundry, telephone calls, and other personal expenses.
-Optional Activities:
-Activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., cultural visits or additional treks).
-Beverages:
-Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks unless specified.
-Tips and Gratuities:
-For guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
-Vaccinations:
-Any vaccinations required for travel to Tanzania.
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.
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“Please note that these are sample itineraries. We will tailor your safari according to your preferences.”
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