Africa Prime Experiences | Luxury Safaris

Duration 5 Days

Difficulty Moderate

Style Private

Location Tanzania

Overview

The Experience

What this journey is about and what you can expect.

This is a five-day private adventure package exploring the remote western circuit of Tanzania, combining the vast wilderness of Katavi National Park with the chimpanzee forests of Gombe Stream National Park. The journey begins with a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam directly into the heart of Katavi, allowing for immediate immersion in this untouched park known for its large buffalo herds and prolific dry-season wildlife. After two days of extensive game drives in Katavi, the itinerary includes a scenic full-day road and lake transfer to the shores of Lake Tanganyika, culminating in a boat journey to Gombe National Park. The fourth day is dedicated to guided chimpanzee trekking in the historic forests and optional waterfall hikes or lakeside relaxation. Accommodation is provided in mid-range lodges located inside both national parks. The package includes domestic flights, ground and boat transfers, guided activities, park fees, and specified meals, with per-person pricing detailed for private groups across high and low seasons

Journey

Day by Day Itinerary

A clear day-by-day breakdown so you know what to expect from start to finish.

Day 1

Arrive Day

Your adventure begins with an early morning flight from Dar es Salaam to Mpanda Airport in western Tanzania. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide who will assist with your luggage and transfer you to Katavi National Park, located approximately 55 kilometers away — a journey of about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on road conditions. Once inside the park, you'll immediately begin your first game drive. Katavi is one of Tanzania's most remote and untouched parks, offering rich wildlife experiences with fewer crowds. You’ll explore its vast floodplains, woodlands, and river systems where large herds of buffalo, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles thrive. After a day of adventure, enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge situated within the park, surrounded by nature

Stay: Mbalimbali Katavi Lodge

Day 2

Katavi National Park

After breakfast, you’ll spend the entire day exploring Katavi National Park in depth. The park is known for its dramatic scenery, seasonal lakes (like Lake Katavi and Lake Chada), and incredible concentrations of wildlife during the dry season. You’ll enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives, with chances to witness predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas on the hunt. Your guide will also help you track animal behaviours and share insights into the park's unique ecosystem. Between drives, you can relax at the lodge or enjoy a bush lunch if conditions allow. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight amid the wild ambiance of Katavi.

Stay: Mbalimbali Katavi Lodge

Day 3

Katavi National Park – Gombe National Park.

After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic game drive en route out of Katavi National Park, making your way toward Kigoma via Mpanda and eventually to Kibirizi Port. The road journey from Katavi to Kigoma (via Mpanda) covers approximately 350 km and takes about 6 hours by road, offering views of rural Tanzanian landscapes. Upon arrival at Kibirizi Port near Kigoma town, you’ll board a motorized boat for a 1–1.5-hour cruise (20 km by water) along the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika to reach Gombe National Park. This park is famous for Dr. Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research and its lush, mountainous terrain. Once you arrive, check in to your lodge inside the park, have dinner, and rest for the night in preparation for tomorrow’s exciting trekking experience

Stay: Mbalimbali Gombe Lodge

Day 4

Gombe National Park

Today is dedicated entirely to exploring the wonders of Gombe National Park. After breakfast, you’ll head into the forest with an experienced park ranger to begin your chimpanzee trekking adventure. The hike can vary in duration depending on the location of the chimpanzees but is usually moderate and highly rewarding. As you trek through the dense forest, keep an eye out for other primates such as red-tailed monkeys, colobus monkeys, and baboons, as well as a variety of birds and butterflies. Once you locate the chimps, you'll have the opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat — grooming, playing, and interacting in social groups. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk to the Kakombe Waterfall or along the lakeshore, where you can even take a refreshing swim in Lake Tanganyika. All meals are included today, served at the lodge: breakfast, a packed or hot lunch, and dinner in the evening. Overnight at your lodge in the park.

Stay: Mbalimbali Gombe Lodge

Day 5

Travel Day

After an early breakfast, you’ll leave Gombe by boat back to Kibirizi Port in Kigoma (approx. 1–1.5 hours). From there, your guide will transfer you to the Kigoma airstrip in time for your scheduled domestic flight back to Dar es Salaam. Depending on your flight time, a short town tour of Kigoma can be arranged if time allows. This marks the end of your unforgettable western Tanzania safari

Stay: N/A

End of Itinerary

What's covered

Included & Excluded

Know exactly what's part of your package so you can plan and budget with confidence.

Included

All transport, 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for game viewing
Hotel and lodge accommodation as detailed
Bottled drinking water
Services of various local guides
All National Park entrance and camp site fees
All food - breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals
Donations and payments to local community projects

Excluded

International flights
* Travel and personal accident insurance
Visa, passport, vaccinations, and medicines
Tips (While tipping is not obligatory, it is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for your guide's hard work and dedication in making your trip memorable. A recommended amount is US$30 per day.)
Expenditure on personal bar bills (including all additional drinks), souvenirs, personal items
Optional excursions/activities not detailed in itinerary
any additional services requested

Investment

2025/2026 Rates

Prices are quoted in USD per person sharing, based on group size. No hidden fees.

Group Size	Mid-Range
2 Travelers	$4,305
4 Travelers	$4,090
6 Travelers	$3,875
8 Travelers	$3,788
10 Travelers	$3,659

FAQs

Quick answers to common questions about this trip.

Is airport transfer included?

Yes, we provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) for all our package bookings.

What type of vehicle do we use?

We use custom 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for 360-degree game viewing. Each vehicle is equipped with a fridge, charging ports, and radio calls.

Do I need a Visa for Tanzania?

Most travelers need a visa. You can obtain an E-Visa online beforehand or a Visa on Arrival ($50 USD or $100 USD for US citizens). Please check your specific country requirements.

What about dietary requirements?

We cater to all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Please inform us at the time of booking so our chefs can prepare accordingly.

Preparation

Free Guide

Safari Packing Essentials

From neutral clothing to camera gear. Our expert guide on what to pack for the bush.

Download Safari Checklist

Western Tanzania Adventure