Africa Prime Experiences | Luxury Safaris

Duration 6 Days

Difficulty Challenging

Style Private

Location Tanzania

Overview

The Experience

What this journey is about and what you can expect.

This is a six-day private adventure package to western Tanzania's remote and primate-focused national parks, Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains, both located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The journey begins with a domestic flight to Kigoma followed by an immediate scenic boat transfer to Gombe National Park, famous for its chimpanzee research history. After a day of chimpanzee trekking in Gombe, the itinerary includes a full-day boat transfer along the lake to reach the equally remote Mahale Mountains National Park for a second, more immersive chimpanzee tracking experience in a dramatic mountain-forest setting. Accommodation is provided in mid-range lodges located inside both parks, culminating in a final night at a hotel in Kigoma. The package includes domestic flights, extensive boat transfers, guided chimpanzee treks, 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

Arrival Day.

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma, a journey of approximately 1,200 km, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by air. Upon arrival at Kigoma Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide. From the airport, you will be transferred by road to Kibirizi Port, located about 10 km away, a short 20-minute drive. At the port, you will board a boat for a scenic ride across the waters of Lake Tanganyika to reach Gombe National Park, a journey that takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by motorized boat, depending on the lake conditions. Upon arrival in Gombe, you will check in at your lodge, where you’ll enjoy a warm dinner and have the evening at leisure to relax and rejuvenate for the exciting adventure that awaits you the next day

Stay: Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge

Day 2

Gombe National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the pristine wilderness of Gombe National Park, famous for its chimpanzee population and the groundbreaking research of Dr. Jane Goodall. After breakfast, embark on a guided trek through the forest in search of wild chimpanzees. Along the way, you may also encounter colobus monkeys, baboons, and a variety of bird species. The trek involves moderate hiking and offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Enjoy a packed lunch or return to the lodge for a hot meal, depending on the length of your trek. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the lakeshore or taking a dip in the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay

Stay: Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge

Day 3

Gombe National Park – Mahale National Park

After breakfast, begin your journey from Gombe to the remote and equally enchanting Mahale Mountains National Park. The transit involves returning by boat to Kibirizi Port (1.5–2 hours), followed by a short road transfer back to Kigoma town. From there, you'll board a scheduled or chartered boat ride depending on the arrangement. If by boat, the journey from Kigoma to Mahale takes about 6 to 7 hours covering approximately 150 km along the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika. The boat ride offers breathtaking views of the Mahale Mountains rising steeply from the lakeshore. Upon arrival in Mahale, check in at your lodge nestled within the park. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by lush forest and the sounds of the wild

Stay: Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge

Day 4

Mahale National Park

Today is a full day to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Mahale National Park. Begin your day with an early breakfast followed by a guided chimpanzee tracking experience—Mahale is one of the best places in the world to observe wild chimpanzees. Trekking can be physically demanding, involving hikes through hilly, forested terrain, but the reward is witnessing these incredible primates in their natural habitat. You may also explore waterfalls, swim in the crystal-clear lake, or take a kayak ride along the shoreline. A picnic or hot lunch will be provided, followed by more opportunities for relaxation or guided nature walks. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and another peaceful night in the park.

Stay: Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge

Day 5

Mahale National Park – Kigoma City.

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day of exploration in Mahale, allowing for one last chance to connect with nature—whether it’s a short chimpanzee walk, bird watching, or a refreshing swim in the lake. Around midday, begin your return journey to Kigoma. The boat ride back from Mahale to Kigoma will take 6 to 7 hours depending on lake conditions. Upon arrival in Kigoma, transfer to your lodge or hotel in the town for dinner and an overnight stay. Rest well before your departure the next day

Stay: Kigoma Hilltop Hotel

Day 6

Travel Day

After an early breakfast at your lodge, you will be transferred to Kigoma Airport (about 15–20 minutes drive) for your scheduled flight back to Dar es Salaam. The flight duration is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through the remote and wildlife-rich parks of western Tanzania

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
All boat rides mentioned in the itinerary
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 Local flight from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma
Local Flight from Kigoma back to Dar es Salaam

Excluded

International flights
Travel and personal accident insurance
Visa, passport, vaccinations, medicines
Tips
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	£4,231
4 Travelers	£4,020
6 Travelers	£3,809
8 Travelers	£3,724
10 Travelers	£3,597

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

Mahale National Park Explore