Chimps aside, between June and October you simply won’t find a better beach living than here at Greystoke.

Our dry season in Mahale starts in June, when the long rains have stopped, and goes through to October. At this time of year, the temperatures increase and the skies are quite hazy, the lake has never been more appealing for a cooling dip. As the dry season progresses, the chimps are more usually found in the lower slopes due to their favourite fruits being found lower down.

Mahale's green season runs from November through to March and this time of year is a photographer’s dream; the haze often prevalent through the dry season is washed away. The forest offers varied viewing, although the forest is at its best, full of the colour of wildflowers, birds, and butterflies. The lake is clearest in these months with incredible views of the Congo in the distance.

January

February

March

June – July

August to October

November to December

Interesting chimp dynamics

LOW season rates. Get up to 45% off.

Chimps begin to disperse into smaller, tighter family groups as the community spreads out to ensure ample food for all. An interesting time to see the dynamics of chimpanzee politics, because dispersal shows the strength of relationships.

A little more rain around and weather can be unpredictable, though it seldom spoils the fun. Still warm.

Prices from $2,170 per person per night
January

Good chimping but longer treks possible

LOW season rates. Get up to 45% off

A lovely time. Small clusters of close-knit chimps forage and patrol their favourite areas, including the beach/forest edge. Walks to find the chimps can be longer sometimes but it's unpredictable.

The odd shower over the forest and sometimes dramatic storms over the lake. Sunny patches in between but can also be grey. Mostly warm.

Prices from $1,125 per person per night
February

Longer treks, often very rewarding

LOW season rates. Get up to 45% off

A lovely time. Small clusters of close-knit chimps forage and patrol their favourite areas, including the beach/forest edge. Walks to find the chimps can be longer sometimes but it's unpredictable.

The odd shower over the forest and sometimes dramatic storms over the lake. Sunny patches in between but can also be grey. Mostly warm.

Prices from $1,125 per person per night
March

Big groups of chimps, sometimes higher up

All the magic of Greystoke from chimp trekking to sunset dhow trips and forest walks.

Chimpanzees can often be found in big groups but can be quite high in the forest taking advantage of an abundance of fruit in the upper slopes. Walking is easier but can be longer at times.

The start of dry season - warm days with sporadic showers but generally dry underfoot. July often brings dry, sunny days and pleasant temperatures.

Prices from $2,170 per person per night
June – July

Chimps on the lower slopes, lake refreshing

All the magic of Greystoke from chimp trekking to sunset dhow trips and forest walks.

Chimps follow the fruiting patterns, and the lower slopes are beginning to produce ripe fruit. Chimps can be heard hooting and screeching in the forest behind the camp. Trek times can be reduced as a result. The weather is perfect for enjoying the Lake and boats during the rest of the day.

Still dry. Still very warm, the lake is constantly appreciated for its cooling swims and breezes. Beach life is idyllic throughout this time.

Prices from $2,170 per person per night
August to October

Chimps still low, Christmas off the map

LOW season rates. Get up to 45% off.

Despite the odd shower, the chimps are still on the lower slopes, which is always good news. Chimps are therefore expected to still be within reasonable reach so trekking, while never easy, should not be too long. Make the most of the boat and relaxing in between.

The rain forest begins once again to live up to its name this month, so you may need your poncho. The sun does come out and sunsets are more vivid than ever.

Prices from $2,170 per person per night
November to December

Western Tanzania

Our camps bring a safari of extraordinary contrasts. Katavi is about remote, expeditionary safaris. Mahale takes you further off the map, to meet our chimpanzee cousins. Put simply, this is the pinnacle of life-changing safaris.

Reviews

D. Zhou

Review for greystoke

Unique Safari Adventure

Secluded piece of paradise in Western Tanzania offering lush forest and lakeside landscapes and a glimpse into the world of chimps. The bandas are open to the beautiful surroundings and offer a much different experience to the usual safari tents. The food and service are outstanding. A must if you’...

A. Vogel

Review for greystoke

Magical Experience Here

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Greystoke Mahale. Just trekking with chimpanzees, to swimming in Lake Tanganyika, to catching fish and eating sashimi, I had a really magical experience here.

B. Kopper & J. Norris

Review for greystoke

Beautiful, Unique and Magical

We have been coming here for years. This is one of our favorite places on the planet. Such a beautiful, unique and magical place. Time slows and you become one with the sounds of the forest and the energy of the lake. Hanging with chimps in the morning, seeing them get excited with a rain a dance an...

A. Van Der Goot

Review for greystoke

Paradise on Bucket List

Mahale has been on our bucket list for almost 10 years - we finally made our way to this paradise and we are already planning our next trip with the family!

K. Ritchey

Review for greystoke

Fantastic Chimp Treks

This place is fantastic. The chimp treks are the highlight. You get within feet of the chimps, and the guides provide so much information (they were researchers here before they became guides). Everything else is lovely too. The food is excellent, the service is incredibly attentive and the rooms ha...

FAQs

What I wish I knew before going on safari

Always take a good pair of binoculars. And slow down. Take time to enjoy and area or the safari camps. There is sometimes nothing more special than spending the afternoon or early morning on your veranda and letting the wildlife come to you.

Are there age restrictions for safaris?

Yes, some camps have minimum age limits, in camp and especially on walking safaris. But there are many brilliant private or family properties that can tailor the age restrictions.

Can I charge my devices whilst on safari?

Yes you can charge your devices whilst on safari. Most camps have connection points in the tent or room. Also, in most safari vehicle there is charging points available so you can keep all your cameras and phones topped up and never miss that wonderful sighting.

Is Tanzania a good honeymoon destination?

Absolutely. Wild, remote and deeply romantic. We believe a safari honeymoon strikes the perfect balance of adventure and calm. No two days are ever the same and what better way to kick off married life.

What are sundowners?

Sundowners are a wonderful part of safari life. At the end of your day in the bush, its time to kick back and celebrate the sightings, the adventures and time with your loved ones. All with something cold in hand!

Is English spoken in Tanzania?

Yes, English in widely spoken in Tanzania, especially in camps and by safari guides. Swahili is the main language and knowing a few words and phrases will always earn you a smile.

Do I need a visa to travel to Tanzania?

Not all travellers into Tanzania require a visa. You must have a single entry tourist visa or business visa, is the general rule but there are country exemptions from this. On the most part, single entry or business visas can be obtained on arrival but we recommend where possible, to process the visa online ahead of travel - just make sure you allow enough time to do so!

Can children go on safari?

A safari with your family is a magical way to spend quality time with your children, immersed in the wilderness and surrounded by wildlife. Time on safari with your family allows all to disconnect from your busy daily lives. Tailor your family safari with a private guide and vehicle plus make sure you look at family specific properties such as Mkombe's House. When inside the national parks, most camps have age restrictions with 8+ being a general guide. 

Much depends on the age of your children, if on the young side then we'd advise not trying to cram too much in to your days but plan your safari in bitesize chunks bringing new excitement around every corner.

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