Western Tanzania is an area that receives very few visitors in comparison to the rest of the country. Made up of Mahale and Katavi, the remote location of these two wilderness destinations, coupled with incredible wildlife and beautiful accommodation is the perfect combination for anyone looking for an unforgettable, adventurous experience.
Primates
Mahale is famed for its primate trekking. Here you can go in search of the famous Mahale chimps that have been the focus of research for over thirty years. Although the chimps are the main draw factor of Mahale, there is plenty of other wildlife in the Mahale Mountains National Park.
Iconic African Animals
Whilst Mahale specialises in chimp trekking, Katavi is a park that showcases some of the biggest congregations of iconic Africa animals seen in Tanzania.
As the dry season progresses, water sources become extremely limited and as the heat of the day takes grip, animals struggle to find shade to cool off. Hippo pods in their hundreds jostle and shove their way into the last remaining mud pools and crocodiles in their desperation, seek out caves for relief from the heat.
Incredible Lodges
Almost as important as the incredible wildlife are the accommodation options in these two remote wilderness areas.
Greystoke Mahale is the flagship property of Mahale run by Nomad Tanzania. Accessible by boat, the barefoot luxury lodge sits along the shore of Lake Tanganyika.
Chada Camp is one of the more authentic and rustic bush camps you will find in Tanzania. Following Nomad’s style of simplistic luxury, Chada offers a true safari experience.
Fly Camping
Only available in a handful of destinations across Tanzania, fly camping is an activity for the adventurous guest. Fly camping only adds to the thrill of safari. Spending the night in a dome tent under the stars of Africa is certainly an experience never to be forgotten.
Idyllic Settings
What makes Western Tanzania such a draw however is the peaceful and isolated experience one can achieve here. The landscape is breath-taking in both areas. The vibrant green forests of Mahale and the turquoise blue water of Lake Tanganyika contrasts to open acacia studded bushveld of Katavi.
With so few visitors, and little to no internet connection in the camps, the West is arguably the destination in Tanzania to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy nature in a pure and simple way that is becoming ever-increasingly difficult in today’s world.
