Discover the Untamed Beauty of Mahale Mountains National Park
Explore the breathtaking Mahale Mountains National Park, a sanctuary for chimpanzees and a paradise for nature lovers in Tanzania.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is a breathtaking enclave of biodiversity, home to playful chimpanzees and stunning landscapes. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this park offers a serene escape into the heart of Tanzania's wilderness.
A brief summary to Mahale Mountains National Park
- PWMM+88P, Kalambo, TZ
- +255272970404
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your chimpanzee trekking permits in advance as they are limited and highly sought after.
- Consider visiting during the dry season (June to October) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring appropriate hiking gear and plenty of water for your treks, as the terrain can be challenging.
- Be respectful of wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following park guidelines during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Ruaha National Park, head west towards the town of Iringa. The drive takes about 5 hours (approximately 340 km). Follow the A104 road until you reach Iringa. Once in Iringa, follow signs to the A7 highway towards Mbeya. Continue on the A7 for about 200 km until you reach the town of Mbeya.
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Public Transportation
From Ruaha National Park, you can take a taxi or a local bus to Iringa. This journey typically takes around 5-6 hours. Once in Iringa, you can find a bus service to Mbeya, which will take about 3 hours. Ensure you check the bus schedules in advance as they can vary.
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Car
After reaching Mbeya, continue north to the town of Kyela. This will take approximately 1 hour (about 70 km). Once in Kyela, you will need to arrange for a boat transfer to Mahale Mountains National Park. The boat ride takes about 2 hours and can be booked at the local docks.
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Boat Transfer
The boat transfer from Kyela to Mahale Mountains National Park is essential, as the park is located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Make sure to book in advance for a smoother experience. Prices for the boat ride can vary, but expect to pay around $25-$50 USD per person.
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Final Destination
Upon arrival at the Mahale Mountains National Park dock, you will need to arrange for a local guide who can assist you with park entry and activities. Ensure you have cash ready for park entrance fees, which can cost around $30 USD per person.
Discover more about Mahale Mountains National Park
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