5 Days Katavi & Mahale Safari

Overview

This 5-day Katavi & Mahale safari offers an exclusive adventure into Tanzania’s most remote wilderness areas. Katavi National Park is famed for its raw beauty, vast herds of buffalo, hippo-filled pools, and predator action. Mahale Mountains National Park, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is a rare sanctuary where you trek in lush forests to encounter wild chimpanzees. Together, these destinations create a perfect blend of wildlife, wilderness, and adventure for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari.

Safari Highlights

• Remote safari experience away from crowds

• Explore Katavi’s large buffalo herds and hippo pools

• Stunning aerial flight over the Rift Valley and Lake Tanganyika

• Guided chimpanzee trekking in Mahale Mountains National Park

• Scenic boat trips on Lake Tanganyika

• Unique luxury tented camps in pristine wilderness settings

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Fly Arusha/Dar es Salaam – Katavi National Park, afternoon game drive
Day 2: Full-day game drives in Katavi
Day 3: Fly Katavi – Mahale, boat transfer, afternoon chimpanzee trekking
Day 4: Full-day chimpanzee trekking & lake activities in Mahale
Day 5: Morning activities, boat transfer, fly Mahale – Arusha/Dar es Salaam

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Katavi National Park
Morning flight from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to Katavi. Upon arrival, transfer to your lodge. Afternoon game drive introduces you to Katavi’s untamed landscapes and abundant wildlife.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp / Chada Katavi

• Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Katavi
Spend the day exploring the floodplains, woodlands, and hippo-filled rivers. Katavi is renowned for its high concentrations of buffalo, elephants, crocodiles, and predators. Picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your game drive.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp / Chada Katavi

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Mahale Mountains
After breakfast, board a light aircraft flight from Katavi to Mahale. Arrive at the lakeshore airstrip and enjoy a boat transfer across the crystal waters of Lake Tanganyika to your lodge. Afternoon guided forest trek in search of chimpanzees.

• Accommodation: Kungwe Beach Lodge / Greystoke Mahale

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Lake Exploration
A full day dedicated to chimpanzee trekking in Mahale’s lush forest. Guided by experts, spend time observing these primates in their natural habitat. Later, enjoy kayaking, fishing, or relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Lake Tanganyika.

• Accommodation: Kungwe Beach Lodge / Greystoke Mahale

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Departure
Morning activity at leisure. After breakfast, transfer by boat to the airstrip for your flight back to Arusha or Dar es Salaam, marking the end of your adventure.

• Accommodation: None

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

Package Inclusive

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary.

• All meals as indicated (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional English-speaking guide.

• Park entrance fees, conservation levies, and game drives.

• Bottled drinking water during safari activities.

• Scheduled activities listed in the itinerary

Package Exclusive

• International and domestic flights (unless stated).

• Travel insurance and Tanzania visa.

• Personal expenses, tips, laundry, and souvenirs.

• Alcoholic beverages and drinks not included in meals.

• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Advisory / Important Notes

1. Health & Safety

   • Ensure you have relevant vaccinations (yellow fever certificate may be required).

   • Carry personal medications and first aid essentials.

   • Drink bottled water provided; avoid untreated tap water.

2. Clothing & Gear

   • Lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing for game drives.

   • Comfortable hiking shoes and sandals for walking safaris or forest treks.

   • Warm layers for early mornings and evenings.

   • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

   • Camera, binoculars, and extra batteries/memory cards.

3. Weather & Terrain

   • Tanzania has wet and dry seasons; terrain may be muddy or dusty depending on the time of year.

   • Be prepared for long drives between parks.

4. Cultural Etiquette

   • Respect local customs and communities.

   • Ask permission before photographing people in villages.

5. Safari Conduct

   • Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and forest walks.

   • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife; do not feed animals.

   • Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife.

6. Connectivity

   • Mobile signal may be limited in remote parks.

   • Wi-Fi is often only available at lodges or main camps.