This safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter wild chimpanzees in their natural habitats at Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks. Starting from Dar Es Salaam, guests will fly to Kigoma, then take scenic boat transfers across Lake Tanganyika to reach these remote and pristine parks. The journey focuses on intimate primate encounters, nature walks, and relaxing by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika.
Trip Highlights
- Visit the definitive "coolest" cafe on the iconic Houston Lane.
- Skip the tourist traps and go straight to the best spot.
- Perfect for coffee lovers and capturing that Instagram-worthy moment.
Itinerary
07:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel/residence in Dar Es Salaam by Sajaji Safari representative. Transfer to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) for your scheduled flight.
08:30 AM: Check-in for your domestic flight to Kigoma Airport (TKQ).
10:00 AM: Depart from Dar Es Salaam.
12:00 PM: Arrive at Kigoma Airport. Meet your Sajaji Safari guide and transfer to Kigoma port.
01:00 PM: Board a private boat for the scenic transfer across Lake Tanganyika to Gombe Stream National Park. Enjoy lunch on board or a packed lunch.
04:00 PM: Arrive at Gombe Stream National Park. Check into your lodge/campsite.
04:30 PM: Orientation briefing about Gombe, chimpanzee trekking, and park rules.
05:00 PM: Relax, enjoy the lake views, or take a short introductory walk around the camp.
07:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge/camp.
08:30 PM: Briefing for the next day's activities.
09:00 PM: Overnight at Gombe.
- 06:30 AM: Wake-up call, light breakfast.
- 07:30 AM: Head to the park headquarters for a final briefing with your guide and park rangers.
- 08:00 AM: Begin your chimpanzee trekking adventure. Follow the rangers deep into the forest, tracking the chimps. The trek duration varies depending on the chimpanzees' location (can be 2-6 hours).
- 12:00 PM: (Approx) Return to the lodge/camp after your trekking experience.
- 01:00 PM: Lunch at the lodge/camp.
- 02:30 PM: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Options include:
- Swimming in Lake Tanganyika (if permitted and safe).
- Guided forest walk to see other primates (baboons, red colobus monkeys).
- Relaxing and birdwatching around the camp.
- Visit Jane Goodall's former research station (if time and interest allow).
- 06:00 PM: Sundowners by the lake.
- 07:30 PM: Dinner at the lodge/camp.
- 09:00 PM: Overnight at Gombe.
07:00 AM: Wake up, enjoy breakfast.
09:00 PM: Overnight at Mahale.
08:00 AM: Say goodbye to Gombe. Board your private boat for the transfer to Mahale Mountains National Park. This is a longer, scenic journey across Lake Tanganyika. Packed lunch will be provided.
01:00 PM: (Approx) Arrive at Mahale Mountains National Park. Check into your lodge/campsite.
02:00 PM: Lunch at the lodge/camp.
03:00 PM: Orientation briefing about Mahale, chimpanzee trekking rules, and park regulations.
04:00 PM: Relax or take an optional activity such as a dhow cruise on Lake Tanganyika or fishing (additional cost may apply for some activities).
07:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge/camp.
08:30 PM: Briefing for the next day's activities.
06:30 AM: Wake-up call, light breakfast.
09:00 PM: Overnight at Mahale.
07:30 AM: Head to the park headquarters for a briefing with your guide and park rangers.
08:00 AM: Begin your chimpanzee trekking adventure in the Mahale forests. The trek duration varies depending on the chimps' location (can be 2-8 hours). You'll spend up to one hour observing the chimps once located.
01:00 PM: (Approx) Return to the lodge/camp after your trekking experience.
01:30 PM: Lunch at the lodge/camp.
03:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Options include:
Swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika.
Kayaking or paddle boarding along the shore.
Leisurely walk on the beach.
Birdwatching.
07:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge/camp.
07:00 AM: Wake-up call, breakfast.
08:30 AM: Choose your preferred activity for the day: Option 1 (Chimpanzee Trekking - second chance): If you wish for another chimpanzee encounter (subject to permit availability and additional cost), head out for another trek.
Option 2 (Forest Walk & Waterfall): Guided forest walk to a beautiful waterfall, exploring the rich biodiversity of the Mahale mountains.
Option 3 (Lake Tanganyika Exploration): Full morning of lake activities - fishing excursion (catch & release), snorkeling at different spots, or a longer dhow cruise.
01:00 PM: Lunch at the lodge/camp or packed lunch during your activity.
03:00 PM: Afternoon dedicated to relaxation, swimming, or enjoying the lodge amenities.
05:00 PM: Sunset dhow cruise on Lake Tanganyika with sundowners.
07:30 PM: Farewell dinner at the lodge/camp, sharing safari highlights.
09:00 PM: Overnight at Mahale.
07:00 AM: Wake up, enjoy your final breakfast in Mahale.
08:00 AM: Board your private boat for the transfer back to Kigoma.
11:00 AM: Arrive at Kigoma Port and transfer to Kigoma Airport.
12:30 PM: Check-in for your domestic flight to Dar Es Salaam.
02:00 PM: Depart from Kigoma.
04:00 PM: Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), Dar Es Salaam.
04:30 PM: Meet your Sajaji Safari representative for transfer to your hotel or onward international flight (if applicable).
End of Sajaji Safari Services.
Included/Exclude
The Cost Includes
- * All domestic flights as per itinerary (Dar Es Salaam - Kigoma - Dar Es Salaam).
- All boat transfers as per itinerary (Kigoma - Gombe, Gombe - Mahale, Mahale - Kigoma).
- All park entry fees for Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains National Parks.
- One (1) chimpanzee trekking permit per person for Gombe Stream National Park.
- One (1) chimpanzee trekking permit per person for Mahale Mountains National Park.
- Accommodation as specified for your chosen tier (5 nights).
- Meals as specified (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - typically full board).
- Professional English-speaking Sajaji Safari guide/driver.
- Park rangers/trackers during chimpanzee trekking.
- All ground transfers in Kigoma.
- Bottled drinking water during activities and transfers.
- Emergency medical evacuation services (within Tanzania, subject to policy terms).
The Cost Excludes
- International flights to and from Tanzania (Dar Es Salaam).
- Visa fees for Tanzania.
- Comprehensive travel insurance (mandatory, must be arranged by the client).
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, souvenirs, phone calls).
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks at lodges/camps (unless specified as included).
- Tips for guides, lodge staff, and park rangers.
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., additional chimpanzee treks, specific fishing trips, specialized lake activities).
- Any extra nights or activities due to flight delays or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Medical vaccinations and travel medications.
Tour Plan
Due to its popularity and intimate size, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, to guarantee your spot. While we do accommodate walk-in guests if space is available, booking in advance ensures you will not have to wait. You can easily make a reservation through our website or by calling the cafe directly to secure your preferred time.
It’s a unique combination of factors. We are known for our minimalist, award-winning interior design, a curated menu of rare single-origin coffees that you won’t find anywhere else, and a relaxed, artistic atmosphere. Our expert baristas are also considered some of the best in the city, making every single cup of coffee a true work of art.
Of course! We cater to all dietary preferences and offer a wide selection of premium, non-dairy milk alternatives for you to choose from. Our current options include oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. Our baristas are happy to help you select the best one to perfectly complement your chosen coffee drink for a delicious experience.
Yes, we offer complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi for all of our guests. While you are welcome to use your laptop, please note that we cultivate a social and relaxing atmosphere, so we do not have dedicated workspaces. We kindly ask guests to be mindful of others during our peak hours, as table space can be limited for all to enjoy.
