Activities in Western Tanzania
Tanzania is rich in cultures, landscapes and wildlife. Apart from traditional game drives there are various activities that can add value to your safari itinerary. Most of these are already included in your overnight stay in Western Tanzania, however, to give you an idea of possibilities, we have outlined the most common ones below. If you have any particular interest, that is not listed here, do not hesitate to let us know.
Katavi
Night Game Drive
A night game drive in Katavi is a thrilling and unusual safari experience. Encountering wildlife at night when various animals are active is a very rewarding adventure. Night game drives are done in an open safari vehicle with special spotlights to observe nocturnal animals and their behavior. A ranger joins your vehicle as the know all the corners of the park. Maybe you are lucky to see the elusive leopard and night birds will enchant you with their songs.
Important Facts:
- Departure times: evening – around 08h00 pm
- Duration: 2- to 2,5 hours
- Physical Rating: easy
- Not to forget: Camera and Head-Light
Mahale
Chimpanzee Trekking
For any traveler keen to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, Mahale is a must visit! About 1000 chimpanzees are estimated to live in 20 families within the park. Your overnight stay in Mahale includes one chimpanzee trek per day. Sometimes the chimpanzees are close to the camp and on other days the trek might be strenuous as they are hiding deep in the forest. The time spend with the chimpanzees is one hour only, however, it is an incredible safari experience.
Important Facts:
- Departure time from camp: morning hours
- Time spend with chimpanzees: 1 hour
- Group Size: shared activity with a maximum of 6 people per group
- Age Restriction: no children below 12 years
- Health Restrictions: guests must be physically fit and healthy (no trek with any cold or flu symptoms)
- Physical Rating: moderate to strenuous
Dhow Boat Safari
Lake Tanganyika is Africa’s deepest freshwater lake. When staying in Mahale you have the option to enjoy a boat safari on the lake. Your overnight stay includes one boat safari in which you can option to take a short river cruise and try your luck at fishing; or you visit the nearby fishing village Katumbi for a cultural tour. If you like to do both activities during your stay, a supplemental charge will apply.
Important Facts:
- Departure time: any time
- Duration: 1,5- to 2-hours
- Physical Rating: easy
- Not to forget: sunhat; binocular and camera
Forest & Bird Walk
Stimulate your senses as you take a stroll through the lush Mahale forest. The small and winding forest trails invite you to explore wildlife beyond the parks famous inhabitants and your local guide will explain more about birds, insects, plants, trees and the various primate species that you will encounter on your walk. Mahale is home to more than 350 recorded bird species. These include fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, storks along the lake shore and colorful bee-eaters, guinea fowls, hornbills, trogons and turacos within the forest.
Important Facts:
- Departure time: any time
- Duration: 1,5- to 2-hours
- Physical Rating: easy
- Not to forget: good walking shoes, binocular and camera
Kayaking on Lake Tanganyika
Kayaking is an awesome way to explore the lake and its surroundings. Hop on a kayak and ride along the lake shore. Kayaks are available at Kungwe Beach Lodge and Greystoke Mahale.
Important Facts:
- Departure time: any time
- Duration: 1,5- to 2-hours
- Physical Rating: easy to moderate
- Not to forget: sunhat, binocular and camera