Mahale Mountains
Facts and practical information
Located in the Kigoma region of Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This remote and isolated park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including a large population of chimpanzees, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
The park is named after the Mahale Mountains, which rise dramatically from the shores of Lake Tanganyika, creating a stunning backdrop for the park's lush forests and pristine beaches. Visitors to Mahale Mountains National Park can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area by hiking through the dense forests, birdwatching along the lakeshore, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches.
One of the main draws of Mahale Mountains National Park is the opportunity to trek into the mountains to observe and interact with wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park is home to several habituated groups of chimpanzees, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. In addition to chimpanzees, the park is also home to a variety of other primates, as well as a rich array of bird and plant species.
For those seeking a more active adventure, Mahale Mountains National Park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. The lake is teeming with colorful fish and other aquatic life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Lion
The lion, a majestic big cat from the genus Panthera, roams the wilds of Africa and India. Known for its powerful build, rounded head, and distinctive tail tuft, the lion is a striking figure in the animal kingdom. Male lions, larger than females, are easily recognized...
Mammals
Common Hippopotamus
The hippopotamus, or hippo, is a fascinating and hefty mammal native to Africa, renowned for its massive barrel-shaped body, wide-opening mouth, and almost hairless skin. These semiaquatic giants can weigh around 1,500 kg on average.
Mammals
Leopard
Leopards, belonging to the Felidae family and the genus Panthera, are among the five big cats in this group. They inhabit sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and East Asia.
Mammals
White-backed vulture
The white-backed vulture, a member of the Accipitridae family, is an Old World vulture closely related to the European griffon vulture. This medium-sized bird is easily identifiable by its distinctive white neck ruff and whitish back.
Birds
Ground pangolin
The ground pangolin, also known as Temminck's pangolin or the Cape pangolin, is one of four pangolin species indigenous to Africa, specifically found in the southern and eastern regions. Named after Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck, these creatures are among the...
Mammals
Kigoma