Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania Remote Park

Mahale Mountains National Park is located in western Tanzania, overlooking Lake Tanganyika. This remote and beautiful park is home to chimpanzees, the last remaining herds of the endemic red colobus monkey, and the rare endemic blue monkey. Its montane forests, rivers and streams provide a unique habitat for a wide variety of wildlife and birds.

Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania Remote Park Summary

Attraction Name: Mahale Mountains National Park
Country: Tanzania
Continent: African
Capital Name: Dodoma
Language: Swahili and ‎English‎ (de facto)‎
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling
Nationality: Tanzanian

Why must you visit Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania?

Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife adventurers. This stunning park is home to some of the world’s most spectacular scenery – with snow-capped peaks, pristine beaches, and lush, jungle-like forests. It’s also an excellent destination for chimpanzee tracking and viewing, with an estimated 800 chimpanzees living in the chimp population in this park.

Visitors may be able to observe the unique behavior of these apes, as well as a variety of other mammals and birds, reptiles and amphibians. The park also offers an amazing array of activities including swimming, snorkeling, fishing and trekking, offering a truly unique Tanzania safari experience.

Tell us about Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania

Mahale Mountains National Park is located in western Tanzania on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. It is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in East Africa. Besides the approximately 850 chimpanzees, the park is also home to a variety of other animals, including red colobus monkeys, baboons, bushbucks, warthogs, impala, and reedbuck.

The park is mostly covered by forest, but its landscape is made up of rugged mountains, grassy savanna, and crystal clear rivers and streams. Despite being one of Tanzania’s least visited parks, it boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. The park is ideal for trekking, hiking, and wildlife viewing, and visitors to the park will also have the opportunity to interact with the wild chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains National Park.

What are the things to do in Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania?

Mahale Mountains National Park is located on the western shore of Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania. It is home to one of Tanzania’s last remaining wild chimpanzee populations, as well as a wealth of other endemic wildlife species. The park consists of rainforest, grasslands, and alpine zones, creating a unique and diverse environment for visitors. Here are some of the activities you can experience on a visit to the Mahale Mountains National Park:

Chimpanzee Tracking: The main draw of the park is chimpanzee tracking. Guests can embark on a hike through the park’s thick rainforest in search of chimpanzees, while also observing a variety of other primates and forest mammals.
Bird Watching: Mahale Mountains National Park is a bird-watcher’s paradise. Over 400 bird species inhabit the park, including 16 species found nowhere else in the world.
Scenic Hikes: Hikers will find plenty of beauty in the park. The diverse terrain and stunning views of Lake Tanganyika are worth seeing.
Lake Tours: Guests can explore Lake Tanganyika on a guided boat tour. It’s possible to spot hippos, crocodiles, and even a few inhabited islands.
Cultural Experiences: The Mahale Mountains National Park are home to several local ethnic groups, including the Bembe, Watembwa, and Burundi. Visitors can learn about the culture of these tribes by visiting local villages.
Fishing: Fishing is a popular pastime on Lake Tanganyika. Local guides can help visitors find the best spots for catching tilapia, Nile perch, and other species.
Beach Time: The National Park includes several coves and beaches, perfect for relaxing and swimming in the lake’s clear waters.

By visiting Mahale Mountains National Park, you will gain a unique perspective on nature and wildlife in Africa, while also gaining a culturally enriching experience.

What are the best foods at Mahale Mountains National Park Tanzania?

The best foods to try at Mahale Mountains National Park are:

Local Fish: The Lake Tanganyika waters at Mahale are abundant with delicious fish, including tilapia.
Local Game: Local game meat such as bush-pig or guinea fowl is a great way to experience traditional African flavors.
Fruits and Vegetables: You’ll find lots of tropical fruits and vegetables fresh in the area, such as avocados, mangos, bananas, and papayas.
Hand-Made Snacks: Local vendors often sell snacks made with cassava and other local ingredients.
Taso: Taso is a unique local dish made from ground corn, butter, and herbs. Try it with a side of pap and a cold drink for an unforgettable meal.