Mahale Mountains National Park

Nestled on the eastern shoreline of Lake Tanganyika, the Mahale Mountains National Park is a hidden gem of Tanzania. This protected area is named after the towering Mahale Mountains range that graces its borders, adding a majestic backdrop to the park’s unique characteristics.What sets Mahale Mountains National Park apart is its unusual features. It is one of only two protected areas in Tanzania dedicated to preserving the country’s chimpanzees, with the other being the renowned Gombe Stream National Park made famous by the renowned researcher, Jane Goodall. However, Mahale Mountains National Park is home to the largest known population of eastern chimpanzees, thanks to its remoteness and vast size.In this park, visitors get to witness a remarkable phenomenon – the co-existence of chimpanzees and lions. The park is among the few in Africa that must be experienced on foot, and visitors will be captivated by the raw beauty of the Mahale Mountains, as well as the lush vegetation that makes up the park’s ecosystem. The absence of roads and other infrastructure within the park boundaries is a testament to the park’s pristine and untouched natural environment.Mahale Mountains National Park has a rich history. The Batongwe and Holoholo peoples traditionally inhabited the Mahale Mountains. In 1979, the Mahale Mountains Wildlife Research Center was established, resulting in the forceful eviction of the people to pave the way for the park. Although the people had lived in harmony with the environment with virtually no impact on the ecology, the establishment of the park marked the beginning of a new chapter in the preservation of the park’s natural resources.As you navigate the park, be prepared to be awed by the stunning scenery, natural wonders, and abundance of wildlife. The park’s remoteness offers a rare chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse oneself in the beauty of nature.Mahale Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic African safari experience. The park’s unique blend of rare wildlife and untouched beauty is an experience that will be etched in your memory forever.