Western Circuit • Tanzania
Mahale Mountains
Home to the largest protected population of eastern chimpanzees on earth — a forested mountain paradise on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, where primates and pristine beach meet.
700–1,000
Chimpanzees
9
Primate Species
330+
Bird Species
Jun – Oct
Best Season
← Western Circuit
Mahale Mountains National Park
Afrika's Great Chimp Sanctuary
Mahale Mountains National Park is a renowned destination for chimpanzee tracking. Situated along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, it shelters the largest protected population of eastern chimpanzees — estimated at 700 to 1,000 individuals. Nestled within the lush forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, the park was established specifically to safeguard these remarkable primates. Mahale is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 330 species including the rare Pel's fishing owl, with diverse habitats ranging from rainforest to mountain grasslands.
The park features a remarkable diversity of habitats — rainforest, grasslands, alpine bamboo, and woodlands — supporting around 50 recorded animal species and eight other primate species beyond the chimpanzees, including yellow baboons and vervet monkeys. Lake Tanganyika's crystal-clear waters harbour over 90 unique fish species. Bordering the park, the lake stands as the world's second-longest and second-deepest freshwater lake, supporting some 400 fish species — including 250 found nowhere else on earth.
What to See
Wildlife & Highlights
Activities
Safari Experiences
When to Visit
Best Time to Go
Mahale can be visited throughout the year. The best time is during the long dry season from June to October — chimpanzees are likely to be seen in large groups, the sunshine illuminates the fish in the lake, and the beach is at its most inviting for relaxing and swimming.
How to Get There
Getting to the Park
By Air & Boat: Fly from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Arusha Airport (ARK), or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam to Kalilani Airstrip — the closest airstrip to the park. From there, a 90-minute boat transfer takes you directly to the park entrance.
Through the Lens
Mahale Mountains in Images
Start Planning
Ready to Visit Mahale?
Our team will build a custom itinerary around this park within 24 hours. No obligation, completely free.