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 $930 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
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 $930 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
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 $930 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
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 $1,795 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
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 $1,795 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
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 $930 per person per night (based on 2023 rates)
November to December

Western Tanzania safaris

Our Western Tanzania 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

L. Mazan

Review for greystoke

"Amazing Experience"

An amazing experience in a beautiful setting, with many interesting activities to do as a family

J. Shaw

Review for greystoke

Stunning Sunsets, Pure Magic

Greystone Mahale is a gem! It’s western location on the shores of Lake Tankinyka provide a beautiful location and stunning sunsets. The entire staff is warm, friendly and professional. The observation and interaction with the chimps is pure magic! It is very clear that the guides and rangers deeply ...

Camps visited:

N. Van Siclen

Review for greystoke

Truly Magical Place

Greystoke and their staff is truly magical place. To meet and get a glance into the chimp community is an experience I will never forget! Thank you to all!

Camps visited:

N. Abedi

Review for greystoke

Chimpanzee Paradise Experience

It’s all about the chimpanzees. Great food, great hospitality and paradise like beauty can be found in many places around the world but none of those add the majestic experience of interacting with a chimpanzee community like Mahale. The fact that Nomad can give you this experience and still give ba...

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