Greystoke Mahale sits on a pristine, white sandy beach overlooking the turquoise water of Lake Tanganyika, with the forested slopes of the 8000 ft Mahale Mountains rising behind. It is no exaggeration to say there is nowhere in the world like this unique lodge. Being so remote, with mountains rising from the beach at your backs this lake side lodge invokes a mood of tranquility and otherworldliness.

However unique the experience of staying at the lodge may be, it is topped only by the time spent trekking with the resident chimpanzees. With an incredible hike through the surrounding forest and mountains you follow a family of chimps for an hour or two before heading back to relax on the beach.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Whether you are hiking alongside a family of chimps while they forage for food or sitting calmly nearby while they sit to feed or groom, a visit with our nearest genetic ancestors is something you will never forget. These peaceful creatures are intelligent enough to recognize our presence but also that we are no threat to them. You’ll find it easy to connect with these animals as a family unit, but even more so if there are some young chimps around bugging their siblings or parents as they roll around playing just like a toddler would.