7-Day Lake Tanganyika & Mahale Boat Safari

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Safari Type: Fly-in Boat Safari + Chimpanzee Trekking
Destination: Lake Tanganyika & Mahale Mountains National Park
Starting Point: Arusha or Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Ending Point: Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Zanzibar

Safari Highlights

  • Explore the remote and pristine shoreline of Lake Tanganyika by boat

  • Track wild chimpanzees on foot in Mahale Mountains National Park

  • Boat safaris with crystal-clear waters, hippos, otters, and colorful fish

  • Stay in an exclusive lodge accessible only by boat or bush plane

  • Sunset cruises, forest walks, and beachside bonfires

  • Ideal for serious adventurers, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers

great north expeditions tanzania(24)
great north expeditions tanzania(25)
great north expeditions tanzania(26)

🗓️ Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fly to Kigoma → Boat Transfer to Mahale

  • Board a bush flight from Arusha or Dar to Kigoma

  • Transfer by boat (approx. 1.5–2 hrs) across Lake Tanganyika to Mahale lodge

  • Settle into your eco-luxury cottage with lakefront views

  • Dinner under the stars on the beach
    Accommodation: Luxury lodge in Mahale Mountains

  • Morning chimpanzee trek into the Mahale rainforest with expert trackers

  • Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation

  • Afternoon boat safari to spot hippos, birds, or simply swim in the lake
    Accommodation: Same Mahale lodge

  • Gentle guided forest walk to waterfalls or ancient fig trees

  • Optional visit to nearby local fishing village (subject to lodge schedule)

  • Kayaking, snorkeling, or beachside reading in the afternoon
    Accommodation: Same Mahale lodge

  • Early breakfast and second trek into chimpanzee territory

  • Deeper insights into group dynamics, grooming rituals, and calls

  • Return for a relaxed lakeside evening
    Accommodation: Same Mahale lodge

  • Mid-morning boat safari with chances to see otters, fish eagles, or crocodiles

  • Swim in one of the clearest lakes in the world

  • Champagne sunset cruise over Lake Tanganyika
    Accommodation: Same Mahale lodge

  • Relax at the lodge or join activities such as kayaking, nature photography, or guided bird walks

  • Optional short jungle trek or massage (if available)
    Accommodation: Same Mahale lodge

  • Breakfast and boat transfer back to Kigoma

  • Scheduled bush flight to Arusha, Dar, or Zanzibar (based on preference)

  • End of expedition

Safari Booking

Safari Booking
✅ What’s Included

  • Domestic bush flights (Arusha/Dar to Kigoma return)

  • All boat transfers and safaris on Lake Tanganyika

  • Chimpanzee tracking permits and park entry fees

  • 6 nights accommodation at a remote luxury lodge

  • All meals and bottled water

  • Local guides, trackers, and private boat excursions

  • Laundry service and limited Wi-Fi at lodge

  • International flights and visa fees

  • Travel insurance (required for chimp trekking)

  • Tips for lodge staff, guides, and trackers

  • Optional alcoholic beverages

  • Personal gear (light boots, walking stick, insect repellent)

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