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7-Day Western Tanzania
Best Time: June to November
Fly-In Safari to Katavi and Mahale – Chimpanzee tracking
DAYS
DESTINATIONS
GUESTS (MAX)
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Discover the raw, untamed soul of Tanzania on this unforgettable 7-day Katavi–Mahale fly-in safari, crafted for travelers seeking true wilderness, privacy, and a deeper connection with nature. Far from the busy northern circuit, this exclusive journey leads you into Tanzania’s remote western frontier—where landscapes are vast, wildlife is abundant, and every moment feels profoundly personal.
Your adventure begins in Katavi National Park, one of Africa’s last truly untouched ecosystems. Endless floodplains unfold beneath wide skies, supporting immense herds of buffalo, powerful elephants, dense pods of hippos, and thriving predators that roam freely with little human presence. With very few visitors, each game drive is intimate and unhurried, offering cinematic encounters in complete solitude. As the day fades, retreat to elegant safari lodges that blend seamlessly into the wild, where comfort, warm hospitality, and star-filled nights enhance the sense of isolation and wonder.
From Katavi, a scenic flight carries you over vast wilderness to the shores of Lake Tanganyika and the forested peaks of Mahale Mountains National Park. Here, lush rainforest rises dramatically from the lake, protecting one of Africa’s most emotional wildlife experiences—chimpanzee trekking. Guided by expert trackers, you walk quietly beneath towering trees, following wild chimpanzee families and sharing rare, moving moments as they interact, play, and communicate in their natural world.
Beyond the forest, Mahale offers time to slow down and be. Paddle across crystal-clear waters, snorkel along the lake’s shoreline, enjoy a sunset dhow cruise, or relax barefoot on the beach as the mountains glow in golden light. Seamless charter flights, eco-luxury lodges, and highly experienced guides ensure a journey that strikes a balance between adventure and refinement.
This is more than a safari—it is a passage into places few travelers ever reach and memories that linger long after the journey ends. With limited camps and restricted chimp permits, availability is highly exclusive. June to October is the ideal time to experience Katavi and Mahale at their most spectacular—early booking is strongly recommended.
Your adventure begins with a scenic flight from Dar es Salaam to Mpanda, the gateway to Tanzania’s western wilderness. Upon arrival, a short drive leads you into the heart of Katavi National Park, where you’ll settle into a luxurious safari lodge tucked away in nature. After lunch and a rest, head out for an afternoon game drive across the vast, wildlife-rich floodplains. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy a classic safari sundowner with drinks and snacks at a scenic lookout—a perfect introduction to the raw beauty of Katavi. Activities: Game drive, sundowners
Meal: Breakfast Today is dedicated to exploring Katavi’s pristine and untouched wilderness. Begin early with a morning game drive, tracking massive herds of buffalo, elephant, and zebra. You’ll traverse miombo woodlands, marshy plains, and riverbeds where crocodiles and hippos gather in large numbers. After a leisurely lunch and siesta at camp, head back out for an afternoon game drive. For the adventurous, a guided walking safari can be arranged to encounter the bush on foot. Your expert guide will interpret tracks, birdcalls, and hidden animal behavior. Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives, optional walking safari
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner After breakfast, board a light aircraft and enjoy spectacular aerial views as you fly to Mahale Mountains National Park, a jewel set on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. On arrival, a boat transfer across the sparkling waters brings you to your lodge nestled by the beach. Take the afternoon to unwind—perhaps a dip in the lake or reading on a hammock with panoramic views. Later, enjoy a traditional dhow cruise at sunset, floating peacefully across the lake while sipping a drink and absorbing the tranquility. Activities: Lake shore Village Tour, sunset dhow cruise
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Start the day with an early morning chimpanzee trek into the lush Mahale Mountains. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll track and observe a habituated troop of wild chimps—an intimate and moving wildlife experience. The trek can range from a short walk to a few hours depending on their location. After lunch at the lodge, head back into the forest on foot to discover hidden waterfalls and spot rare monkeys, colorful birds, and vibrant butterflies. Return for a lakeside dinner and storytelling around the fire. Activities: Chimpanzee trek, forest and waterfall hike.
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Today offers a mix of water and cultural adventures. Begin with another opportunity to track chimpanzees or take a guided lakeshore walk to observe birds and wildlife near the beach. After lunch, enjoy kayaking or snorkeling in the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, home to unique cichlid fish. As the day winds down, visit a nearby Tongwe community (where available), learning about traditional customs, beliefs, and their deep connection with the Mahale forest. Finish with a starlit dinner on the beach. Activities: Chimp trek or birding walk, kayaking/snorkeling, cultural visit
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner After a final breakfast by the lake, transfer by boat and flight back to Katavi National Park. Once again immersed in the wild savannah, you’ll check into your camp and set out for one more thrilling afternoon game drive. Track lions on the prowl, elephants on the move, or witness a hippo showdown at a shrinking waterhole. Toast your final night in Tanzania’s wilderness with sundowners and a delicious campfire dinner under the stars—sharing stories with fellow travelers and guides. Activities: Flight to Katavi, afternoon game drive
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Enjoy a relaxed morning and a final breakfast in the bush. Take in the sounds of the wild one last time before flying from Katavi (Mpanda) back to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, you can connect to your onward flight or choose to stay overnight in the city. If time permits, browse local crafts or souvenirs at the lodge gift shop before departure—a perfect memento of your journey into Tanzania’s remote and majestic western circuit. Activities: Scenic flight, optional souvenir shopping
Hand Selected for an Unmatched Experience
Location:
Ihama Lodge is an upscale safari retreat nestled on the banks of Katavi National Park’s Katuma River, just 800 m from Sitalike Gate. Guests enjoy prime wildlife viewing, with hippo pools and passing elephants, giraffes, and...
Location:
Sokwe Lodge – Lap of Luxury by Lake Tanganyika sits serenely on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Mahale, offering an intimate retreat focused on comfort and conservation. With just three 50 sqm rooms featuring...
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The price listed is specific to this package. However, we are happy to customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. Please feel free to contact us for a personalized quote.
All prices are quoted in USD per person, based on double occupancy. For room arrangements or a finalized price, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
| People | Green Season (1st December to 30th April |
Shoulder Season (May & Nov) |
Peak Season (1st Jun - 30 Oct) |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2
|
Per Person
|
N/A
|
$4,190.00
|
$4,356.67
|
|
4
|
Per Person
|
N/A
|
$3,870.56
|
$4,037.22
|
|
5
|
Per Person
|
N/A
|
$3,806.67
|
$3,973.33
|
|
6
|
Per Person
|
N/A
|
$3,764.07
|
$3,930.74
|
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