Intro
An estimated one thousand chimpanzees roam the lush rainforest spanning a chain of dramatic peaks alongside Lake Tanganyika; Mahale Mountains National Park is a sanctuary for these chimpanzee populations.
Kungwe Beach Lodge sits on a stretch of secluded golden beach, deep in the heart of the African interior. With a dramatic mountain range rising up from behind and crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika in front of the lodge, this romantic getaway is the perfect blend of comfort and luxury.
The primary activity in the park is chimpanzee trekking. On a gentle boat safari down the lake you may encounter crocodile, hippo and otter as well as an abundance of birdlife. Test your skills against the local methods of freshwater fishing. Kayaks are available for exploring the lake or you may chose to simply relax on the beach.
In the evening, enjoy a sundowner around a crackling fire whilst the sun slowly dips down over the mountains of the Congo.
Wildlife
Mahale is a pristine, natural experience open to those willing to walk its trails. The birds, primates, monkeys, small predators and butterflies, all offer signs of life and there is little that beats an amble through the forest.
Each day you can venture out into this wonderland to observe the habituated M Group of Chimpanzees as they groom, squabble noisily, or bound into the trees to swing effortlessly between the vines.
If chimpanzee trekking is not enough, boat safaris, kayaking, fishing excursions along the shore are also on offer. This region of Lake Tanganyika offers some of the best fresh water fishing in Tanzania. Here you can catch Sangara (Nile Perch), Kuhe (Yellow Belly) to name just a few.
Quick Facts
Safari Operators
Safari Lodge (less than 20 rooms)
Average Stay
Scheduled flights operate on Mondays and Thursdays only. Therefore a minimum or 3 or 4 nights is the norm for most itineraries with exception to groups on private charters.
Child Policy
Children must be under the age of 12 years and in a shared room for 50% discount to apply. Infants under 2 years stay for free with an Adult in a shared room.
As per the guidelines set by the Mahale National Park, children are not allowed on chimpanzee treks. They are welcome to stay and use the facilities of the lodge under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
Accommodation
Ten light spacious safari rooms, furnished in imitation of the surrounding lakeside Villages, have been strategically placed at the edge of the cooling forest canopy of the Mahale Mountains National park. All rooms are under thatch on raised platforms and have a private deck providing views of Lake Tanganyika and the beach. The main deck is shaped like a dhow boat and contains the central dining and lounge facilities. All guest rooms are within easy walking distance along the beach to the main lounge and dining areas.
Season
Low Season: January, February, May, November, December
High Season: June, July, August, September, October
Closed: 26 February - 15 May
Region
Africa
Safari Operators
Safari Lodge (less than 20 rooms)
