Exploring Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania

There are few destinations left where, upon arrival, we feel like we are immediately transported back in time, to a rich, tangled wilderness worthy of Tarzan himself.

One place that has endured the transition to the digital age but retains the feeling of wild Africa is the Mahale Mountains in western Tanzania. Here, the remote yet unparalleled Greystoke Camp is nestled into thick forest where it meets sandy beach along the shore of Africa’s longest and deepest lake, Tanganyika.

Greystoke Camp

A room with a view

Here we spend our time walking in the lush and beautiful forest of the foothills, up close and personal with our relatives, the chimpanzees. These chimps have been studied for more than fifty years, and we gain stunning insights into the lives and loves – as well as political dynamics – of these fascinating creatures. The local guides really bring it all to life for us with their energetic explanations and personal histories of individual chimps.

Meeting the locals

Walking along the river with the chimps

Looks like a place Tarzan could have called home

We also thoroughly enjoy our time on and in the lake itself. We paddle in kayaks, fish for native species of cichlids, and just cool off in the heat of the day.

We even get to know Big Bird, the orphaned pelican who has made himself a regular fixture around camp and particularly enjoys the afternoon boat rides on the lake.

Cruising the lake via wooden vessel offers views of hippos submerged beneath us in the clear waters, lots of fun diving contests off the top deck, and plenty of opportunities for sundowners ….with Big Bird participating in everything!

Cruising Lake Tanganyika

Hippos swimming under the boat

Paddling with Big Bird

Time for a swim and a sundowner!

Mahale after dark

Big Bird is famous on YouTube! You can see his GoPro video if you click here.