8-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Tanzania

8-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Tanzania

8-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Tanzania. Tanzania is known for its rich wildlife and diverse landscapes, but few experiences match the thrill of trekking chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This 8-day chimpanzee trekking safari will take you to some of the most remote and pristine areas of Tanzania, including  Mahale Mountains National Park and Gombe Stream National Park, both famous for their thriving chimpanzee populations. This tour combines wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty to provide an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

• Arrival in Arusha: Upon arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.
• Hotel check-in: Relax at a comfortable lodge or hotel, such as Arusha Coffee Lodge or Mount Meru Hotel, where you can unwind after your flight.
• Briefing: Meet with your guide for a briefing about the trip, covering the itinerary, what to expect during the chimpanzee treks, and any necessary preparations.

Overnight: Arusha.

Day 2: Fly to Mahale Mountains National Park

• Morning flight: Take a scheduled flight from Arusha to Mahale Mountains National Park, located on the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika.
• Boat transfer: Upon landing at the park’s airstrip, you will take a boat ride to your lodge, enjoying the scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Arrival at the lodge: Check-in at your lodge, such as Greystoke Mahale, one of the most luxurious lodges in the area.
• Relax and explore: Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lake, taking a swim, or enjoying the lodge’s amenities. You might also take a short walk to familiarize yourself with the area.

Overnight: Greystoke Mahale Lodge or similar.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Mahale Mountains

• Chimpanzee trekking: Begin your first day of chimpanzee trekking. After breakfast, you’ll head into the forest with experienced guides to track a group of wild chimpanzees. The guides will follow their calls and signs, leading you to the best spots to observe them.
• Time with the chimps: Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll spend about an hour observing them as they interact, play, groom, and forage. The Mahale chimpanzees are habituated to human presence, allowing for close encounters.
• Return to the lodge: In the afternoon, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation by Lake Tanganyika.
• Optional activities: In the afternoon, you can enjoy kayaking on the lake, snorkeling, or a guided nature walk.

Overnight: Greystoke Mahale Lodge or similar.

Day 4: Explore Mahale Mountains and Lake Tanganyika

• Morning trek: Enjoy another morning trek into the forest to track the chimpanzees. Each trek offers a new experience, as the chimps move through the forest in search of food.
• Wildlife spotting: In addition to chimpanzees, keep an eye out for other wildlife, including monkeys, bush pigs, and a variety of bird species.
• Afternoon lake activities: After lunch, you can explore Lake Tanganyika, the world’s second-deepest freshwater lake. You can take a boat trip, go fishing, or simply relax on the beach.

Overnight: Greystoke Mahale Lodge or similar.

Day 5: Final Chimpanzee Trek in Mahale

• Last chimp trek: Head out for one more chimpanzee trek, making the most of your final day in Mahale Mountains. Enjoy watching the playful behavior of the chimps and take in the lush forest surroundings.
• Cultural experience: After lunch, visit a nearby fishing village to learn about the local culture and how the communities coexist with the wildlife and environment.
• Sunset by the lake: End your day with a scenic sunset view over Lake Tanganyika, a perfect way to conclude your Mahale experience.

Overnight: Greystoke Mahale Lodge or similar.

Day 6: Fly to Gombe Stream National Park

• Transfer to Gombe: After breakfast, take a boat ride back to the airstrip for your flight to Gombe Stream National Park, located further north along Lake Tanganyika.
• Boat ride to lodge: On arrival, you’ll take a short boat transfer to your lodge, such as Gombe Forest Lodge, set amidst the park’s stunning natural beauty.
• Relaxation and briefing: Settle in at the lodge and relax. Your guide will brief you on the chimpanzee trekking in Gombe, which is another prime spot for observing these great apes.

Overnight: Gombe Forest Lodge or similar.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Gombe Stream National Park

• Chimpanzee trek: After breakfast, embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Gombe Stream National Park. This park, made famous by Jane Goodall, is home to one of the longest-running chimpanzee research projects in the world.
• Chimp observation: Once the chimps are located, you will have about an hour to observe them in their natural habitat. Their behavior can vary widely, from grooming and playing to foraging and communicating.
• Optional activities: In the afternoon, explore the park further with guided hikes or visit the Jane Goodall Research Center to learn more about chimpanzee conservation efforts.

Overnight: Gombe Forest Lodge or similar.

Day 8: Departure

• Final lake activities: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final morning by the lake. You might take a short nature walk or enjoy some time on the water.
• Flight to Arusha: After breakfast, transfer by boat to the airstrip for your return flight to Arusha.
• Departure: Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll either transfer to your hotel or continue to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your international flight.

Inclusions

• Accommodations: Luxury lodges in Mahale and Gombe, and a comfortable hotel in Arusha.
• Meals: All meals during the tour, with full-board options at lodges.
• Transportation: Domestic flights, boat transfers, and all ground transportation.
• Guided trekking: Professional guides for chimpanzee trekking and park exploration.
• Park fees: Entrance fees for Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks.

Exclusions

• International flights: Flights to and from Tanzania.
• Visa fees: Entry visas for Tanzania, typically around $50 to $100, depending on your nationality.
• Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation.
• Personal expenses: Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, or tips for guides and staff.
• Alcoholic beverages: Drinks other than those provided by the lodge (some lodges may offer select drinks with meals, but additional alcoholic beverages are not included).
• Optional activities: Any additional activities not specified in the itinerary, such as special boat trips, fishing, or private guided tours.
• Chimpanzee trekking permits: Depending on the lodge, the cost of chimpanzee trekking permits may not be included and can be charged separately.
• Vaccinations and health-related costs: Any vaccinations, medications, or health-related expenses required for travel to Tanzania (such as yellow fever vaccination or malaria prophylaxis).
• Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and other service personnel.

Cost

The 8-day chimpanzee trekking safari in Tanzania typically costs between $6,000 and $12,000 per person, depending on accommodation, season, and the level of luxury.

Conclusion

This 8-day chimpanzee trekking safari in Tanzania offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the country’s most beautiful and remote parks while coming face-to-face with wild chimpanzees. Combining adventure, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, this tour is perfect for nature lovers and anyone interested in primates.