info@wildearth.travel 
Veiled peaks, primal forests, and lake-bound silence
Hemmed between jungle-clad peaks and the glassy sweep of Lake Tanganyika, the Mahale Mountains rise steeply from the water, draped in rainforest and veiled in mist. This far-flung corner of western Tanzania feels worlds away from traditional safari circuits. The landscape is bold and untouched, with peaks soaring over 2,400 metres and tree-laden slopes plunging directly into the lake’s cobalt depths. There are no roads here. Access is only by boat, which keeps the region pristine and pleasantly difficult to reach. Mahale’s peaks were once formed by tectonic rumblings along the Great Rift Valley, the whole park still emanating an ancient, underwater hush.
Mahale is one of the best places to observe chimpanzees in the wild, with over 1,000 of them populating the forests. Red colobus monkeys swing overhead, bush pigs rustle through the undergrowth, and giant butterflies drift between strangler figs. Birdlife is rich and unbothered while leopards lurk, bushbuck tiptoe and the soundtrack of the rainforest is pure birdsong and rustle.
Visitors here can track wild chimpanzees through the forest with expert guides, glide across the lake in a traditional dhow, or hike to hidden waterfalls deep in the mountains. Kayaking and catch-and-release fishing are also available for those seeking easygoing solitude. Lodges are few, luxurious, and deeply in tune with the wild. For those with a deep interest in our closest primate relatives, Gombe Stream National Park is not far north of Mahale on the lake shore. It is here that inspirational conservationist Jane Goodall conducted the majority of her research.
Design Your Own Safari
From the first conversation, you’ll speak directly with one of our safari specialists.
Someone who lives and breathes the bush – who’s walked the same paths you will – and who knows how to shape a journey that reflects your pace, your style, your idea of the wild.
We don’t just plan safaris. We design them with you.
What this means for you:
– One point of contact, from start to finish
– Custom itineraries shaped through real conversation
– Honest advice from someone who’s been there
Let’s begin with a conversation.
Speak to an Expert Now to Start Planning
Luxury Mahale Mountains Lodge
Why Travel With WildEarth
Travel with Impact
A portion of your safari investment goes to the WildEarth Impact Foundation, ensuring Africa’s wildlife and wild places are not only seen but safeguarded through powerful storytelling, conservation awareness, and direct support for environmental needs.
Guided by Trusted Experts
Our guides are more than guides, they’re storytellers, educators, and conservationists who have spent years in Africa’s wild spaces.
Small Groups
With no more than six guests, every safari remains personal, unhurried, and tailored for allowing for deeper engagement and personal experiences.
Exceptional Experiences
Journeys designed to include unique opportunities – from rhino conservation activities and cheetah tracking to scenic hot air balloon safaris.
Every Detail Considered
Your journey begins with a personal bon voyage call, an opportunity to answer questions, offer guidance, and ensure you’re fully prepared. From that moment, every detail is managed with care, from tailored logistics to special touches along the way. While you’re travelling, our team is available 24 hours a day for support, wherever you are in Africa.
Meet Our Expert Private Guides
Our guides aren’t just familiar WildEarth faces. They're highly skilled guides, with years of experience tracking, interpreting, and sharing the wonders of the wild.
Meet Our Expert Private Guides
Our guides aren’t just familiar WildEarth faces. They're highly skilled guides, with years of experience tracking, interpreting, and sharing the wonders of the wild.