Over in the West of Tanzania near Lake Tanganyika lies Jane Goodall’s former stomping grounds: Mahale Mountains National Park. It’s one of the world’s most iconic destinations for chimpanzee encounters, with around 1000 recorded here. One group, called the Mimikire clan, has been observed by researchers since 1965. 

While the real highlight of Mahale is trekking up close to habituated chimps, the surrounding landscape is the stuff of fairytale magic. Just picture it: Lush emerald forests, electric-blue butterflies, glistening streams and waterfalls, all framed by the dramatic peaks of the Mahale Mountains. 

The powdery-white lakeshores of Tanganyika are also worth exploring, with outdoor activities on offer, such as snorkelling, kayaking, and fishing trips. As for wildlife, Mahale is also home to many other interesting mammals, including rare sable antelope, porcupines and other primates such as yellow baboons and red colobus monkeys. Although rare, lion, leopard, giraffe, and buffalo are observed in the open savannahs from time to time. 

Much like Katavi National Park, Mahale completely differs from anything else in Tanzania. It’s also just as remote but incredibly rewarding, especially if you stay somewhere like the enchanting jungle camp of Greystoke Mahale. The raw and authentic Mbali Mbali Mahale is also hard to top.