Chimp Trekking
Encounter a family of wild chimps, spending time watching them interact.
This unusual safari combines two of Tanzania’s remotest and least visited parks. Spot lions and buffalos on the floodplains of Katavi, before encountering chimpanzees on the forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, within sight of Lake Tanganyika.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Fly Camping
Sleep out in the wilderness of Katavi, under a star-filled sky.
Sundowner Dhow
Float on Lake Tanganyika as the sun sets, with a drink in hand.
Lions Hunting
Watch lions stalking buffalos on Katavi’s grassy plains.
Why Steppes?
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Why we like it
This is the trip for those who have been to the Serengeti, Ruaha and Selous. These parks show a different side of Tanzania – one that can be challenging but also immensely rewarding. It is the unpredictability and untamed nature of these parks – not always positive traits – that makes them so appealing.
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Day 1
Arusha
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Day 2
Arusha - Katavi National Park
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Days 3-5
Katavi National Park
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Day 6
Katavi National Park - Mahale National Park
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Days 7-8
Mahale National Park
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Day 9
Mahale National Park - Arusha
Day 1
Arusha
Day 2
Arusha - Katavi National Park
Lions Hunting
Watch lions stalking buffalos on Katavi’s grassy plains.
Days 3-5
Katavi National Park
Fly Camping
Sleep out in the wilderness of Katavi, under a star-filled sky.
Day 6
Katavi National Park - Mahale National Park
Sundowner Dhow
Float on Lake Tanganyika as the sun sets, with a drink in hand.
Days 7-8
Mahale National Park
Chimp Trekking
Encounter a family of wild chimps, spending time watching them interact.
Day 9
Mahale National Park - Arusha
More Details
Katavi Safari
Fly from Arusha to the incredibly remote Katavi National Park. One of East Africa’s least explored parks, Katavi is dominated by floodplains, the meandering Katuma River and acacia woodlands.
This beautiful ecosystem is home to healthy populations of zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests and elephants, as well as numerous predators. These include cheetahs, lions, hyenas and leopards. Wild dogs are also said to roam the park.
Fly Camping
As well as driving and walking, have the option to fly camp – something that makes an already wild park feel even wilder.
Set out into this wilderness in the late afternoon, hiking across the grassy plains. Arrive at the preprepared fly camp just before sunset, in the golden light of dusk. After a meal cooked over an open fire, lie down beneath a mosquito net, with the sounds of the bush surrounding you as darkness descends.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Get close to one of the last populations of wild chimps in Tanzania, which survive on the thickly forested slopes of Mahale Mountains National Park. Trek in search of these primates, observing their behaviour and photographing them.
Greystoke Mahale is within hiking distance of the 60 strong M-group, one of the most habituated groups on the continent. As a result, the experience here is remarkable. However, it is a privilege you have to earn, thanks to the park’s remote location and the tough nature of the trekking.
Lake Tanganyika
Mahale Mountains National Park is set against the emerald waters of Lake Tanganyika. Stay between lake and forest, in the rustic Greystoke Mahale. After the strenuous trekking, spend time here relaxing in front of the lake.
Explore the lake by kayak or set out in the traditional dhow at sunset, with drinks and snacks to accompany the spectacular views.
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchase through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From $10,830 Per person
When to travel
Tanzania in January
Generally, most places are quite humid and wet, although the north around the Serengeti can experience a brief dry season.
Tanzania in February
It remains a good time to head to the Serengeti and the north as it experiences a brief dry season.It is also one of the driest months in Zanzibar, so a great chances to spend some time on the quiet beaches.
Tanzania in March
The start of the long rainy season, as humidity builds. Some lodges close and roads can become impassable. The landscapes are lush but it makes wildlife harder to spot.
Tanzania in April
The wettest month, with uncomfortably high levels of humidity, so we advise against travel at this time.
Tanzania in May
The rain continues with uncomfortably high levels of humidity, so we advise against travel at this time.
Tanzania in June
The start of the dry season and one of the best months to visit. Clear skies dominate despite the lush landscapes, and it is a fantastic time to see thousands of wildebeest migrate in the Serengeti.
Tanzania in July
The driest and coolest month across the country. A popular time to travel, so heading to the south and west of the country is a good option. You can see all the wildlife that you can get in the northern parks but also chimpanzees.
Tanzania in August
Peak season, as the land dries up and makes spotting wildlife much easier. Spot elephants in Tarangire, or relax on the pristine white sandy beaches of Zanzibar. Just make sure to book well ahead as this is the busiest time of year.
Tanzania in September
After the European school holidays are finished, it is quieter. The great weather remains though, with less mosquitoes around too due to the low humidity. The water visibility improves and you can enjoy diving and snorkelling too.
Tanzania in October
Temperatures rise a little, as does the chance of a shower or two. The landscape is at its driest before the start of the rainy season, creating fantastic opportunities to see elephants in the sun-baked open plains.
Tanzania in November
A quiet time of year as the short rainy season starts. The rains are usually overnight but it can rain in the day too. Plenty of game can still be spotted in the Serengeti, but if you are searching for drier weather it is a good time to head south to the Selous.
Tanzania in December
The short rainy season continues throughout much of the country, but there is still plenty of game viewing in the Serengeti and it is peak season in Zanzibar. It can get very busy over the festive season so it is worth booking in advance.
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