8-Day Chimpanzees & Wildlife Combo Safari
This 8-day fly-in safari is a perfect blend of primate trekking and classic big game adventure. Explore the untouched wilderness of Katavi National Park—home to huge herds of buffalo and predators—then journey to the remote shores of Lake Tanganyika for unforgettable chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park. Ideal for seasoned safari-goers, researchers, and wildlife lovers seeking something wild and exclusive.
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Destinations: Katavi National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park
Safari Type: Fly-in Chimpanzee & Wildlife Combo Safari
Starting Point: Arusha or Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Safari Highlights
Game drives in Katavi’s remote savannahs
Track wild chimpanzees with expert guides in Mahale
Scenic boat rides on Lake Tanganyika
Stay in remote, all-inclusive eco-lodges
Ideal for off-the-beaten-path safari lovers
Incredible photography opportunities—chimps, big cats, buffalo herds
🗓️ Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Flight to Katavi National Park
Fly from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to Katavi. Meet your guide and begin afternoon game drive.
Overnight in Katavi (Tented Camp or Lodge).
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Katavi
Explore vast plains teeming with elephants, buffalo, lions, and crocodile-filled rivers. Few tourists, untouched wilderness.
Overnight in Katavi.
Day 3: More Wildlife & Predator Photography in Katavi
Enjoy morning and evening drives. Look for hippo battles, lions hunting buffalo, and flocks of storks and herons.
Overnight in Katavi.
Day 4: Transfer to Mahale Mountains by Plane and Boat
Fly from Katavi to Mahale airstrip, followed by a boat ride across Lake Tanganyika. Arrive at your remote lodge and relax on the beach.
Overnight in Mahale (Lakeside Lodge).
Day 5: First Chimpanzee Trekking Experience
Head into the forest to track Mahale’s habituated chimpanzees. Spend one magical hour with the chimps.
Overnight in Mahale.
Day 6: Forest Walk or Lake Activities
Optional second chimp trek or enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, or hiking waterfalls.
Overnight in Mahale.
Day 7: Final Chimp Trek or Relaxation
Take your final chimpanzee trek or a peaceful beach day. Enjoy sundowners overlooking the Congo Mountains.
Overnight in Mahale.
Day 8: Return to Kigoma – Fly Back to Arusha/Dar
Boat back to Mahale airstrip, then take a return flight to Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
End of tour.
✅ What’s Included
Domestic flights: Arusha/Dar – Katavi – Mahale – return
Park fees and chimp trekking permits
7 nights’ accommodation (Katavi & Mahale lodges)
All meals and filtered drinking water
Private boat transfers on Lake Tanganyika
Guided chimpanzee treks and game drives
Airport and airstrip transfers
❌ What’s Not Included
International flights
Tanzania visa
Personal expenses and gratuities
Optional water activities (e.g., snorkeling gear rental)
Premium drinks
Travel insurance