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Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountain NP

Overview

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting There

Malaria & Safety

Overview – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

The main highlight of Mahale Mountains National Park is its chimpanzees. This mountainous forest is home to about 900 of these fascinating primates. Tourists can trek to the Mimikere community, a group of around 75 chimpanzees that have been closely studied by Japanese researchers since the 1960s. Adding to its appeal, the park is located in a remote and stunning setting along the scenic shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake.
Mahale bush 2 city
Best Time To Go
August to October (Chimp trekking is most convenient).
High Season
August to October (Mahale is never crowded).
Size
1,613km² / 623mi²
Altitude
767-2,388m / 2,516-7,835ft
Pros & Cons
Get the chance to see chimpanzees up close in their natural habitat.
Mahale Mountains National Park is much larger than Gombe National Park.
Explore unspoiled forests stretching down to the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Enjoy hiking through untouched woodlands with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika.
Experience wildlife on foot, offering a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional vehicle safaris.
Enjoy an exclusive and uncrowded safari experience, far from the crowds of more popular parks.
Reaching the park is challenging, with limited accommodation options available.
Due to its remote location, tour packages to Mahale tend to be more expensive.
Wildlife
Mahale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee population, the park’s main attraction. Beyond the chimps, the park is teeming with life, including colorful monkeys like the red colobus, red-tailed, vervet, and blue monkeys. A variety of butterflies and a diverse birdlife also call the park home. As night falls, the sounds of foraging bushpigs create a truly wild atmosphere.

The highlight of any visit to Mahale is chimpanzee trekking. Typically starting after breakfast, treks can last into the afternoon, depending on the chimps’ movements. Other activities include guided forest walks for observing monkeys and birds, a hike to a stunning waterfall nestled in the rainforest, and opportunities for dhow cruises and snorkeling adventures on the lake.
Scenery
Mahale National Park is a stunning landscape of rugged, forested mountains rising dramatically above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. The lake’s sheer cliffs and pristine beaches offer breathtaking views, best enjoyed on a relaxing dhow cruise.
Weather & Climate
Mahale National Park experiences two distinct seasons. Dry Season (May to October), This is the ideal time to visit, with sunny skies and minimal rainfall. Wet Season (November to April), While the park is lush and green during this time, increased humidity and rainfall can be expected.
Best Time To Visit
The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale is during the dry season, particularly from August to October. During these months, the chimps are often found on the lower slopes near the lake, making them easier to find. The forest trails are also drier and easier to navigate.

While the wet season (November to April) can make tracking more challenging, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the rainforest in its full glory, with lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls.
​Wildlife & Animals – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking. With a population of around 900 chimpanzees, including a habituated group, you can observe these intelligent primates up close. Expert guides will lead you through the forest, offering an unforgettable experience as you search for these fascinating creatures.

Hippo
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
Elephant
Giraffe
Cheetah
Leopard
Lion
Black & White Rhino
Chimpanzee
Gorilla
Wildlife Highlights

Mahale National Park is home to various wildlife, including nine primate species. The park’s most famous residents are the chimpanzees and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. You may also encounter yellow baboons, blue, red-tailed, and vervet monkeys. At night, you might hear the calls of lesser and greater galagos.

While the park is primarily known for its primates, the remote eastern slopes are home to larger mammals like elephants, lions, wild dogs, roan antelopes, buffaloes, and giraffes. The forested slopes of Mount Nkungwe are home to a rare subspecies of Angola colobus monkey, which can be spotted on a day hike.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The best time to visit Mahale for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry season, from May to October. Particularly from August onwards, the chimps are often found closer to the lakeshore lodges, making sightings more likely. While the park is open year-round, the rainy season can make trekking more difficult, as the chimps tend to move higher up the slopes.

Wildlife Photos
mahale bush 2 city (10)
​Birds – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale National Park is a birder’s dream, with nearly 400 bird species recorded. The park is home to a variety of forest birds, lake birds, and migratory birds. Keep an eye out for unique species like the palm-nut vulture, giant kingfisher, and crested guineafowl. From November to April, the park welcomes a variety of migratory birds.

Notable Birds in Mahale Mountain NP

African fish eagle
common
Palm-nut vulture
common
Crested guineafowl
common
Vieillot’s black weaver
common
Giant kingfisher
common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Birdwatching is a year-round delight in Mahale. The peak birding season is from November to April when both resident birds and migrants can be observed. However, heavy rains in March and April can make birdwatching difficult. The dry season, from May to October, is the best time for chimpanzee trekking. The chimps are more likely to be found on the lower slopes near the lake during this time.

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Chimpanzee tracking is a year-round activity in Mahale Mountains National Park, with the likelihood of encounters increasing towards the latter part of the dry season, particularly from August through October. During this time, chimpanzees often migrate towards the lower slopes near the lake’s edge, close to the lodges and bandas. For those dedicating two to three days to this endeavor, the chances of spotting these primates are fairly good, regardless of the season.
Best Time
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking: August to October
High Season
Quietest Time to Visit: August to October
Low Season
November to mid-December and March to May (Many lodges closed)
Best Weather
May to October (Almost no rainfall)
Worst Weather
November to April (Wet season)
May to October – Dry Season
Enjoy sunny days with minimal rainfall.
From August to October, chimps are often found on the lower slopes, making sightings easier.
Fewer mosquitoes mean a lower risk of malaria.
The park is generally uncrowded, allowing for a more serene experience.
November to April – Wet Season
Enjoy clear skies and lush, green forests.
Witness powerful waterfalls at their peak.
Observe a variety of bird species, including migrants.
Admire the abundance of butterflies.
Forest paths can be slippery, making navigation tricky.
Chimpanzees may be harder to find, as they move to higher elevations.
Expect warmer temperatures and higher humidity.
Wildlife Photos
mahale bush 2 city (10)
Weather & Climate – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale has a warm, humid climate year-round. Daytime temperatures average around 27°C (81°F), while nights cool down to about 16°C (61°F). The park has two main seasons, dry Season (May to October), enjoy warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall. Wet Season (November to April), expect afternoon showers and higher humidity.
Dry Season – May to October

May marks the beginning of the dry season in Mahale. While there might be occasional rain showers early in the month, the weather becomes increasingly dry and sunny as the season progresses. From June to September, you can expect clear skies and warm temperatures, with highs around 26°C (79°F). Nights can be quite cool, especially in June, with temperatures dropping to around 14°C (57°F). As October approaches, the dry season starts to wind down, and there’s a slight increase in rainfall.

Wet Season – November to April

The wet season in Mahale, from November to April, brings higher humidity and warmer temperatures. While the average temperature doesn’t increase dramatically, the humidity makes it feel hotter. Rainfall is often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms, with sunny periods in between.

Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale Mountain NP Photos
Mahale bush 2 city
​Getting There – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Reaching Mahale National Park requires careful planning and a significant investment. Most visitors arrive in Tanzania through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).

 

Popular Travel Routes:

Arusha: This is the most common starting point. 3- or 4-night packages include charter flights from Arusha to Kalilani airstrip, followed by a boat transfer to the lodge. These packages often combine visits to other parks like Katavi.

 

Southern Tanzania: Safari Air Link offers flights from Ruaha to Mahale on Mondays and Thursdays.

 

Budget-Friendly Option:

For budget travelers, Kigoma is an option. You can fly to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam and then continue your journey by road and boat to the Kasiha rest camp.

Main Park Map
getting to mahale map bush2city
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from São Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

 

Domestic Flights

Tour packages typically include charter flights between parks, arranged by your tour operator for seamless travel. Safari Air Link is the go-to airline for those booking scheduled flights to Mahale.

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

For detailed information on passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements for Tanzania, we invite you to visit our “Getting There” section on the Tanzania page.

​Malaria & Safety – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

Mahale National Park is generally considered safe for visitors. Most people arrive on organized tours, which include flights and boat transfers, adding an extra layer of security. Your experienced guide will prioritize your safety throughout your trip.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Before your trip, consult a healthcare professional to discuss recommended vaccinations. Malaria is present in the area, so it’s important to take preventive measures. These include taking antimalarial medication, using DEET-based insect repellent, and covering exposed skin, especially during the evenings.

Wildlife Viewing

Chimpanzee trekking is generally safe. Chimps are usually indifferent to humans, allowing for close observation of their natural behavior. Before your trek, you’ll receive a safety briefing. It’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions and adhere to the ‘Chimp Trekking Safety Precautions’ to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Overview – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

The main highlight of Mahale Mountains National Park is its chimpanzees. This mountainous forest is home to about 900 of these fascinating primates. Tourists can trek to the Mimikere community, a group of around 75 chimpanzees that have been closely studied by Japanese researchers since the 1960s. Adding to its appeal, the park is located in a remote and stunning setting along the scenic shores of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake.
Mahale bush 2 city
Best Time To Go
August to October (Chimp trekking is most convenient).
High Season
August to October (Mahale is never crowded).
Size
1,613km² / 623mi²
Altitude
767-2,388m / 2,516-7,835ft
Pros & Cons
Get the chance to see chimpanzees up close in their natural habitat.
Mahale Mountains National Park is much larger than Gombe National Park.
Explore unspoiled forests stretching down to the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Enjoy hiking through untouched woodlands with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika.
Experience wildlife on foot, offering a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional vehicle safaris.
Enjoy an exclusive and uncrowded safari experience, far from the crowds of more popular parks.
Reaching the park is challenging, with limited accommodation options available.
Due to its remote location, tour packages to Mahale tend to be more expensive.
Wildlife
Mahale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee population, the park’s main attraction. Beyond the chimps, the park is teeming with life, including colorful monkeys like the red colobus, red-tailed, vervet, and blue monkeys. A variety of butterflies and a diverse birdlife also call the park home. As night falls, the sounds of foraging bushpigs create a truly wild atmosphere.

The highlight of any visit to Mahale is chimpanzee trekking. Typically starting after breakfast, treks can last into the afternoon, depending on the chimps’ movements. Other activities include guided forest walks for observing monkeys and birds, a hike to a stunning waterfall nestled in the rainforest, and opportunities for dhow cruises and snorkeling adventures on the lake.
Scenery
Mahale National Park is a stunning landscape of rugged, forested mountains rising dramatically above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. The lake’s sheer cliffs and pristine beaches offer breathtaking views, best enjoyed on a relaxing dhow cruise.
Weather & Climate
Mahale National Park experiences two distinct seasons. Dry Season (May to October), This is the ideal time to visit, with sunny skies and minimal rainfall. Wet Season (November to April), While the park is lush and green during this time, increased humidity and rainfall can be expected.
Best Time To Visit
The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale is during the dry season, particularly from August to October. During these months, the chimps are often found on the lower slopes near the lake, making them easier to find. The forest trails are also drier and easier to navigate.

While the wet season (November to April) can make tracking more challenging, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the rainforest in its full glory, with lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls.
​Wildlife & Animals – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking. With a population of around 900 chimpanzees, including a habituated group, you can observe these intelligent primates up close. Expert guides will lead you through the forest, offering an unforgettable experience as you search for these fascinating creatures.

Hippo
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
Elephant
Giraffe
Cheetah
Leopard
Lion
Black & White Rhino
Chimpanzee
Gorilla
Wildlife Highlights

Mahale National Park is home to various wildlife, including nine primate species. The park’s most famous residents are the chimpanzees and the endangered Ugandan red colobus monkey. You may also encounter yellow baboons, blue, red-tailed, and vervet monkeys. At night, you might hear the calls of lesser and greater galagos.

While the park is primarily known for its primates, the remote eastern slopes are home to larger mammals like elephants, lions, wild dogs, roan antelopes, buffaloes, and giraffes. The forested slopes of Mount Nkungwe are home to a rare subspecies of Angola colobus monkey, which can be spotted on a day hike.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

The best time to visit Mahale for chimpanzee trekking is during the dry season, from May to October. Particularly from August onwards, the chimps are often found closer to the lakeshore lodges, making sightings more likely. While the park is open year-round, the rainy season can make trekking more difficult, as the chimps tend to move higher up the slopes.

Wildlife Photos
mahale bush 2 city (10)
​Birds – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale National Park is a birder’s dream, with nearly 400 bird species recorded. The park is home to a variety of forest birds, lake birds, and migratory birds. Keep an eye out for unique species like the palm-nut vulture, giant kingfisher, and crested guineafowl. From November to April, the park welcomes a variety of migratory birds.

Notable Birds in Mahale Mountain NP

African fish eagle
common
Palm-nut vulture
common
Crested guineafowl
common
Vieillot’s black weaver
common
Giant kingfisher
common
Best Time for Bird Watching

Birdwatching is a year-round delight in Mahale. The peak birding season is from November to April when both resident birds and migrants can be observed. However, heavy rains in March and April can make birdwatching difficult. The dry season, from May to October, is the best time for chimpanzee trekking. The chimps are more likely to be found on the lower slopes near the lake during this time.

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450+

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Chimpanzee tracking is a year-round activity in Mahale Mountains National Park, with the likelihood of encounters increasing towards the latter part of the dry season, particularly from August through October. During this time, chimpanzees often migrate towards the lower slopes near the lake’s edge, close to the lodges and bandas. For those dedicating two to three days to this endeavor, the chances of spotting these primates are fairly good, regardless of the season.
Best Time
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking: August to October
High Season
Quietest Time to Visit: August to October
Low Season
November to mid-December and March to May (Many lodges closed)
Best Weather
May to October (Almost no rainfall)
Worst Weather
November to April (Wet season)
May to October – Dry Season
Enjoy sunny days with minimal rainfall.
From August to October, chimps are often found on the lower slopes, making sightings easier.
Fewer mosquitoes mean a lower risk of malaria.
The park is generally uncrowded, allowing for a more serene experience.
November to April – Wet Season
Enjoy clear skies and lush, green forests.
Witness powerful waterfalls at their peak.
Observe a variety of bird species, including migrants.
Admire the abundance of butterflies.
Forest paths can be slippery, making navigation tricky.
Chimpanzees may be harder to find, as they move to higher elevations.
Expect warmer temperatures and higher humidity.
Wildlife Photos
mahale bush 2 city (10)
Weather & Climate – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Mahale has a warm, humid climate year-round. Daytime temperatures average around 27°C (81°F), while nights cool down to about 16°C (61°F). The park has two main seasons, dry Season (May to October), enjoy warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall. Wet Season (November to April), expect afternoon showers and higher humidity.
Dry Season – May to October

May marks the beginning of the dry season in Mahale. While there might be occasional rain showers early in the month, the weather becomes increasingly dry and sunny as the season progresses. From June to September, you can expect clear skies and warm temperatures, with highs around 26°C (79°F). Nights can be quite cool, especially in June, with temperatures dropping to around 14°C (57°F). As October approaches, the dry season starts to wind down, and there’s a slight increase in rainfall.

Wet Season – November to April

The wet season in Mahale, from November to April, brings higher humidity and warmer temperatures. While the average temperature doesn’t increase dramatically, the humidity makes it feel hotter. Rainfall is often in the form of afternoon thunderstorms, with sunny periods in between.

Mahale Mountains National Park
Mahale Mountain NP Photos
Mahale bush 2 city
​Getting There – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Reaching Mahale National Park requires careful planning and a significant investment. Most visitors arrive in Tanzania through Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).

 

Popular Travel Routes:

Arusha: This is the most common starting point. 3- or 4-night packages include charter flights from Arusha to Kalilani airstrip, followed by a boat transfer to the lodge. These packages often combine visits to other parks like Katavi.

 

Southern Tanzania: Safari Air Link offers flights from Ruaha to Mahale on Mondays and Thursdays.

 

Budget-Friendly Option:

For budget travelers, Kigoma is an option. You can fly to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam and then continue your journey by road and boat to the Kasiha rest camp.

Main Park Map
getting to mahale map bush2city
Airlines & Ticket Prices

We offer convenient flight booking services to Tanzania at great rates. Alternatively, you can arrange your flights. Either way, we’ll take care of your accommodations and itinerary.

 

There are two direct flight options from Europe to Tanzania. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines operates daily flights from Amsterdam to Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, while Turkish Airlines offers daily flights from Istanbul to the same destinations. These are convenient choices for travelers seeking direct routes.

 

Alternatively, you can fly to Nairobi, the key air travel hub in East Africa, and connect to Tanzania with Kenya Airways, which provides daily flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar. European airlines offering flights to Nairobi include British Airways from London Heathrow, Air France from Paris, Swiss Air from Zurich, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Lufthansa from Frankfurt, and Kenya Airways from London Heathrow or Amsterdam. Many travelers favor Kenya Airways for its efficient overnight service from London to Nairobi, with a convenient connection to Dar es Salaam arriving around 9:00 AM.

 

Additional connection options for those flying directly into Dar es Salaam include Egypt Air via Cairo, Emirates via Dubai, Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi, Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa, Oman Air via Muscat, and Qatar Airways via Doha. Several airlines also operate flights to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar, providing flexibility for your Tanzanian safari adventure.

 

Getting to Tanzania: Simplified Guide 

 

From North America:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from North America. Travelers typically make one stop in Istanbul (via Turkish Airlines) or Amsterdam (via KLM). Turkish Airlines connects 13 North American cities to Tanzania through Istanbul, while KLM offers connections from many U.S. and Canadian cities via Amsterdam. For example, the journey from New York to Dar es Salaam with KLM takes about 21 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take only slightly longer.

Another option is flying directly to Johannesburg with Delta Air Lines (from Atlanta) or South African Airways (from New York or Washington). After an overnight stay, you can take a short 3.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam.

 

From South America:

The quickest route from South America is with South African Airways, flying directly from São Paulo to Johannesburg and then connecting to Dar es Salaam. This journey takes about 15 hours. Other options include connections via Europe or the Middle East with airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, KLM, or Turkish Airlines.

 

From Asia:

Kenya Airways connects directly to Tanzania from Bangkok, Hanoi, and Mumbai, with onward flights to Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar. Alternatively, most travelers fly through Middle Eastern hubs with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Oman Air, or Qatar Airways.

 

From Australasia:

There are no direct flights to Tanzania from Australasia. The best option is with South African Airways, flying from Perth to Dar es Salaam via Johannesburg in about 20 hours. Alternatively, you can connect through the Middle East with Emirates, Etihad Airways, or Qatar Airways.

 

Domestic Flights

Tour packages typically include charter flights between parks, arranged by your tour operator for seamless travel. Safari Air Link is the go-to airline for those booking scheduled flights to Mahale.

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

For detailed information on passport, visa, vaccination, and other entry requirements for Tanzania, we invite you to visit our “Getting There” section on the Tanzania page.

​Malaria & Safety – Mahale Mountain NP

By Maliwaza Kazimoto

Maliwaza a renowned Safari Expert, has helped thousands of travelers experience the magic of Tanzania, including the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Safety

Mahale National Park is generally considered safe for visitors. Most people arrive on organized tours, which include flights and boat transfers, adding an extra layer of security. Your experienced guide will prioritize your safety throughout your trip.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Before your trip, consult a healthcare professional to discuss recommended vaccinations. Malaria is present in the area, so it’s important to take preventive measures. These include taking antimalarial medication, using DEET-based insect repellent, and covering exposed skin, especially during the evenings.

Wildlife Viewing

Chimpanzee trekking is generally safe. Chimps are usually indifferent to humans, allowing for close observation of their natural behavior. Before your trek, you’ll receive a safety briefing. It’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions and adhere to the ‘Chimp Trekking Safety Precautions’ to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Explore Mahale Mountains National Park Safari Tours

Photo Gallery of Mahale Mountains National Park

Map of Mahale Mountains National Park

Photo Gallery of Mahale Mountains National Park

Main Park Map

General Travel Safety Precautions

Embarking on an African safari promises an adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the continent’s rich wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse cultures. While safaris are widely considered safe, especially those organized through reputable tour operators, it’s prudent to take certain precautions to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Here are some essential safety tips to consider:

Cities & Urban Areas: Safety Precautions

Traveling through Africa offers an enriching experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. While it’s generally safe, especially on organized tours or safaris, navigating urban environments requires a bit of savvy to ensure your trip remains worry-free. Here are some straightforward tips to keep in mind, whether you’re exploring bustling metropolises or serene landscapes:

Wildlife Viewing Safety Precautions

Exploring the wild through a safari adventure is an exhilarating experience that brings you closer to nature’s most fascinating wildlife. Whether you opt for a guided tour with an experienced professional or decide to navigate the trails on a self-drive journey, safety is paramount to ensure an enjoyable and incident-free adventure. Here are some essential safety guidelines and tips to help you navigate your safari safely:

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