Overview
This is an incredible primate safari in Tanzania that begins with the remote Katavi National Park where you can explore the rich ecosystem of the Katuma River and the seasonal floodplains of Lake Katavi and Lake Chada by vehicle or on foot, in a guided Tanzania walking safari. The area is home to one of the largest large game populations in Tanzania and is considered one of the wildest areas to explore –You have a chance to encounter huge herds of Cape Buffalo and Elephant crossing the grassy plains and large numbers of crocodile and hippo line the river beds and muddy pools. Birding in the green season can also be phenomenal.
After a wonderful stay Katavi Park, transfer to the Mahale Mountains National Park, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, to enjoy several days of tracking chimpanzees on their dense, forested slopes. The area has no roads at all and the only way to access this park is by boat, reinforcing the impression one is embarking on some Robinson Crusoe style experience – with a little more luxury and comfort involved – but just as much adventure.
Highlights
- Three exciting days of chimp trekking in the Mahale Mountains – one of only two chimpanzee conservation areas in Tanzania
- A chance to view vast herds of big game in Katavi – for a truly magnificent savannah wildlife spectacle – and have the opportunity to experience the wilderness at its best – under the stars in a private fly camp
- Relax at Lake Tanganyika in your very own shipwreck fantasy at the extraordinary Greystoke Mahale, set on a white sandy beach beneath a dramatic mountain backdrop
- Spend nights under canvas in the pioneering Chada Katavi camp, and look out for the elephants that often visit the camp
Itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your luxury lodge for a welcome drink and full briefing on the rest of your luxury Tanzania safari.
The vibrant and picturesque northern city of Arusha is located in an area dominated by the twin peaks of Mt. Meru and iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. The magnificent Meru crater overlooks the city of Arusha, its peak often shrouded in cloud, creating a spectacular backdrop from which to start your African safari adventure.
Arusha Coffee Lodge is located in the grounds of one of the coffee plantation in Tanzania, the lodge is reminiscent of a bygone era – indeed the suites are designed around the original plantation houses. Time permitting , there are some optional extra activities, such as visiting the nearby Museum of Natural History for a great introduction to Tanzania, or enjoying a tour of the plantation and learn all about how coffee is grown, harvested and roasted to make your favourite brew!
Overnight: Arusha Coffee Lodge - Meal Plan: Dinner
Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge, afterwards you will be transferred to the nearby Arusha airport for your scheduled flight to Katavi National Park. The flight departs at 0800hrs, arriving at 1200-1230hrs). Landing in this remote, western wilderness, you will be met by the lodge vehicle and driver and transferred to the camp, arriving in time for lunch.
Chada is small and intimate camp which was the first in Katavi Park, and remains one of only four permanent camps in this remote wilderness. The camp features just six tents offering stunning views of the plains, the camp keeps it simple, with bucket showers and eco-flush toilets – after all, water is a valuable resource for animals and people alike here.
Located in the western side of Tanzania, Katavi National Park is roughly 5,000 square kilometers.The Park is considered Tanzania’s remotest parks,what it lacks in human presence it makes up for with veritable crowds of wildlife. The park is in the centre of one of the richest wildlife areas in the country. As a result, you are sure to spot vast herds of buffalo and elephants crossing the flood plains of Lake Katavi and Lake Chada, and around the rivers, languorous crocodiles bask on the banks and pods of hippo wallow in muddy pools. The vast numbers also work to attract Katavi’s lions, hyenas and other predators. This wildlife paradise offers exceptional game viewing opportunities and your days here will be spent exploring the area on foot, in guided walking safaris, or by vehicle on game drives.
Overnight: Chada Katavi Meal Plan: Full Board
Spend a full day exploring the untouched wilderness of Katavi.Owing to its location in the far south west and the time and cost required to get here, the park is one of the least visited Tanzania safari destinations. The few who come are rewarded with the its remoteness, and experience an Africa reminiscent of days long gone, far from the crowds of Ngorongoro and the Serengeti and shot through with a sense of pioneering spirit.
Overnight:Chada Katavi - Meal Plan: Full Board
Today you have several game viewing opportunities at your disposal. You may start with a game drive in a open 4wd vehicle, exploring the plains without another vehicle or person in sight. Take a bush picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint, before returning to camp during the heat of the day. Later on, head out on foot with your guide and armed scout, on a walking safari through the bush. Experiencing game on foot is an exhilarating experience – you may find yourself getting up close to elephant, crocs and hippos, as well as all sorts of other wildlife that may have darted off at the sound of a vehicle engine.
At an extra cost, unforgettable night out under the stars can be arranged. An evening guided walk will take you to your fly camp, where you will enjoy a three course candlelit bush dinner, before settling down for the night in your netted tent on a comfortable bedroll made up with fresh linens and a down pillow. There are few more unforgettable experiences to be had than falling asleep to the litany of animal calls that form the nocturnal orchestra of the African night.
Overnight:Chada Katavi (with optional fly camping) - Meal Plan: Full Board
You have the last chance to spend the morning in the park before transferring to the nearby airstrip for your scheduled flight to Mahale departing at 1240hrs, arriving just forty minutes later at 1320hrs. Your lodge for the next four nights is a unique camp, tucked away in the remote western frontier of Tanzania on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, with the mountains of Mahale rising at its back. With no roads in this dense, forested terrain, the only practical way of reaching the camp is by boat.
After your short journey across the waters of Lake Tanganyika, you arrive at your lodge in time for a late lunch, to reach the main mess tent you have to cross pristine white sands, the mess tent has scenic views out over the lake.
Overnight: Greystoke Mahale - Meal Plan: Full Board
Spend the mornings at Greystoke enjoying breakfast in the main mess area of the lodge, waiting for updates on the chimp locations. Once everyone is ready, you head off up into the forested slopes of the mountains in small groups accompanied by our experienced and knowledgeable guides. Sightings can never be guaranteed but most guests spot the chimps at least once during their time at Greystoke.
Once you locate the chimps, you will spend up to an hour observing them as they forage, groom, play and rest in the forest around us, and wonder at the special kinship you share with these, our closest primate relatives.
You return to the camp where you enjoy a hearty lunch t the main mess tent, the afternoon is yours to relax and explore. Take a boat or kayak out on to the lake, with a cool box of drinks, or cool off in a beautiful rock pool.
Overnight: Greystoke Mahale - Meal Plan: Full Board
You have another opportunity to go on morning chimp trekking in the Mahale Mountains, for the chance of spending a privileged hour of gazing at a family of chimpanzees as they go about their daily life.Once you spend time watching chimps interact with each other on these dense, forested slopes, there are more than a few comparisons to be drawn with human behaviour!
Later in the afternoon, take a fishing trip out on the lake or enjoy a lazy kayak around its shoreline.
Overnight Greystoke Mahale - Meal Plan: Full Board
This morning you have one last chance to track chimpanzees, or simply just to take a gentle hike through the forest to take in some of its many waterfalls, its vast array of butterflies and birds, and numerous other primates and mammals.
Alternatively, you can dedicate the day to the beach rather than the hills. Relax on the white sandy beach, or take a boat out to a nearby bay. Perhaps don some fins and a snorkel and go exploring underwater. The choice is yours.
Overnight Greystoke Mahale - Meal Plan: Full Board
Today, spend some time around the camp, before departing by boat with a picnic lunch, for a transfer to Mahale airstrip for your scheduled flight to Arusha.On arrival your African Safaris Hub representative will meet you outside Arusha Airport ,drive to Arusha town with an option of shopping en-route to your hotel where you have lunch and afterwards a day room to freshen up will be provided until evening when your driver will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport where you can check in for your international flight departure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Includes/Excludes
Trip Includes
- All park fees and emergency evacuation insurance
- English-speaking guide
- Unlimited mileage in a 4×4 vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Full board accommodation
- Drinking water
- Birds and animal field guide book
- A pair of binoculars
- Government taxes
- Transfers
Trip Excludes
- Personal items (e.g., cameras, visa, and travel insurance)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Pre/post accommodation (booking is available upon request).
- Tips for your guide and cook. Industry recommendations are $20 a day to the cook and $40 a day to your guide divided by everyone in the vehicle.
- International Flights
- Travel documents like Insurances, Visas and Passport
Frequently Asked Questions
The package includes transportation, accommodation, meals, park fees, and guided tours in Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. It may also include additional activities or services depending on the specific package.
Accommodations range from comfortable tented camps to lodges, offering various levels of luxury and amenities. The specific accommodations will depend on the package you choose.
No, airfare is typically not included in the package. Travelers are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Tanzania.
Yes, the Safari Tour can be enjoyed by children, but it’s important to consider their age and ability to handle long drives and wildlife encounters. Some lodges may have age restrictions or offer specific activities for children.
It is recommended to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a good camera. It’s also advisable to bring any necessary medications, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle.
Yes, the safari tour is generally safe. The tour operators and guides prioritize the safety and well-being of their guests. It is important to follow their instructions, respect the wildlife, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The cancellation policy may vary depending on the tour operator and package. It is advisable to review the terms and conditions before booking to understand the cancellation and refund policies.
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