Budget level:
High-End
Country
Tanzania
When to Go
Jun to Feb
Duration
7 Nights
Safari Type
Lodge and Canvas
Location
Western Tanzania
Kids Min Age
All Ages
Safari Rating
This is a 7-night, lodge-based safari taking guests from the remote depths of Katavi National Park at Mbali Mbali Katavi, through the dense habitats of Gombe Stream National Park at Mbali Mbali Gombe. Plunge into the untamed corners of Tanzania with unforgettable stays at these two national parks, both offering unparalleled animal encounters – from the large concentrations of hippo, crocodile and buffalo in Katavi to the famous chimpanzees of Gombe. Exceptional game drives, bush meals, and the longest-running study of its kind in the world promise an unmatched journey through the hidden landscapes of Tanzania.
Itinerary in Brief
4 Nights Mbali Mbali Katavi
3 Nights Mbali Mbali Gombe
Experience the untamed heart of Tanzania on our incredible 7-night Tanzanian Safari, traversing the untouched corners of Katavi and Gombe National Parks. Begin your journey at Mbali Mbali Katavi, nestled in the center of Katavi National Park, where you’ll wake up to stunning views of the vast Katisunga plains. Journey onwards to Gombe Stream National Park, indulging in the wild from your exclusive spot at Mbali Mbali Gombe.
At Mbali Mbali Katavi, embrace the truly remote experience away from regular tourist routes. Your days here will be filled with exceptional game drives, encounters with curious wildlife, and memorable bush meals. Moving onto Gombe, you’ll experience the world-famous habitat of the chimpanzees and partake in the longest-running study of its kind in the world.
This is a journey that brings you closer to Tanzania’s hidden wilderness and leaves you with memories that will be etched in your soul forever.
Detailed itinerary
Days 1 to 4: Mbali Mbali Katavi
Upon arrival at Arusha Airport, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the majestic Mount Meru in the backdrop. Your journey will then take you to the remote and less visited Katavi National Park. After a flight over Tanzania’s vast landscapes, you’ll touch down and head straight to the Mbali Mbali Katavi lodge, nestled amidst the wilderness. The lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and nature, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Africa’s untamed beauty.
Your first game drive in Katavi will introduce you to Tanzania’s third largest national park, sprawling over 4,471 square kilometers. Renowned for its seasonal lakes, floodplains, and woodlands, Katavi is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With some of the country’s largest concentrations of hippo, crocodile, and buffalo, your safaris here will be nothing short of spectacular. Alongside these, the park is also home to herds of elephants, lions, leopards, and a diverse range of bird species.
Throughout your stay, you will not only witness wildlife but also enjoy the traditions of the African bush. Imagine dining under the vast African sky, with bush meals prepared using local ingredients. As the sun dips, gather around a campfire, sharing stories of the day’s adventures, with the sounds of the nocturnal world beginning their nightly symphony around you.
Days 5 to 7: Mbali Mbali Gombe
As dawn breaks over Katavi, you’ll have a hearty breakfast, reminiscing over the memories made. From here, you’ll embark on the next leg of your journey, taking a flight to Kigoma, a bustling port town on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The journey will give you aerial views of the rift valley landscapes, peppered with traditional Maasai villages.
Upon reaching Kigoma, a short vehicle ride will bring you to the dhow boat departure point. The 2-hour dhow boat ride across the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, with its shimmering reflections and scenic views, is an experience in itself.
Your destination, the Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge, sits nestled in the lush forested slopes of Gombe Stream National Park. The park, though small, is a gem and is best known for its chimpanzee populations. Your days here will be marked by thrilling chimpanzee tracking adventures. Walking through the dense tropical forests, you’ll get to observe these magnificent primates up close, engaging in their daily routines. This unique experience is made even more special considering Gombe is where Dr. Jane Goodall began her pioneering research in the 1960s.
While the chimpanzee treks are a highlight, the park also offers opportunities to spot other primates, colorful birds, and even the occasional leopard. Your evenings can be spent enjoying the serene sunset views over Lake Tanganyika, reflecting on the profound connection between man and nature.
When to go
| jan | feb | mar | apr | may | jun | jul | aug | sep | oct | nov | dec | |
| Western Tanzania |  | |  | | |  | | | | | | |
= Best
= Good
= MixedThe Accommodation
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Lodge and Canvas
7 Nights
Budget level:
High-End
