Mahale Mountains National Park, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, is a remote and relatively inaccessible park renowned for its population of chimpanzees. It’s considered one of the best places in Africa for chimpanzee trekking.
Key Highlights:
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Mahale is a prime destination for observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park has been the subject of long-term Japanese research, further habituating the chimpanzees to human presence.
- Remote Location: Mahale’s remoteness and lack of roads contribute to its pristine environment and unique appeal. Access is primarily by boat on Lake Tanganyika.
- Lake Tanganyika: The park’s western boundary is the shore of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-oldest freshwater lake, offering stunning views and a unique lakeside setting.
- Mountainous Terrain: The Mahale Mountains rise steeply from the lakeshore, creating a dramatic and scenic landscape covered in lush rainforest.
- Diverse Habitat: The park’s diverse habitats support a variety of flora and fauna, including other primates like red colobus monkeys and a rich array of birdlife.
- Untouched Wilderness: Mahale offers a true sense of wilderness and isolation.
Why Visit?
Mahale Mountains National Park offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience focused on chimpanzee trekking in a remote and stunningly beautiful setting. The park’s combination of chimpanzees, pristine rainforest, and the shores of Lake Tanganyika make it a very special destination.