GREYSTOKE MAHALE

LOCATION: Kangwena beach on the edge of Lake Tanganyika in Mahale Mountains National Park on a wide, golden beach along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, sheltered by the dense forests of the Mahale Mountains, is the tiny sanctuary of Greystoke Mahale. The mountains rise up from the water to 2500m, behind. This most spectacular and isolated of settings is home to the world’s largest known population of chimpanzees, with approximately 1000 individuals inhabiting the Mahale Mountains National Park. Greystoke Mahale is within hiking distance of the 60 strong M-group, one of the most habituated groups in the world - making Greystoke one the world’s premiere locations for observing and photographing these great apes.

Accommodation at Greystoke Mahale is in exotic barefoot luxury bandas beneath shady trees on the edge of the beach, with extraordinary - and luxurious - interiors, made out of recycled dhow timber - a mix of space, great style and deep comfort; each is an open fronted room, adorned with local fabrics, and large beds with crisp sheets; with dressing room, and private bathroom behind and top ‘chill-out’ deck above - perfect for the most demanding castaway.  

ROOMS & DESCRIPTION: Greystoke has six open-fronted bandas under shady grass thatch, on the beach overlooking the Lake. All beds have large mosquito nets and electric solar lighting. Dressing room, large airy chill-out top deck, large dining area with library/bar, and second bar area on headland overlooking the lake, private, adjoining each room via a short timber boardwalk, in stylish design from local materials and flush toilets and powerful showers (hot water in evenings or on demand).

RESTAURANT AND BAR: Meal times are something special at Greystoke Mahale. Dinner is either served in the spacious Mess tent by the light of flaming torches at the waters edge, or by the light of the moon on a 50-foot mahogany dhow on the crystal waters of Lake Tanganyika.

OTHER FACILITIES & SERVICES: Chimpanzee tracking, forest walks (also other primates, bushbuck, bush pig, leopard, birds & butterflies in the forest) snorkelling (over 200 species of cichlid fish), fishing, kayaking, swimming, sundowners on the dhow. NOTE: Chimp trekking can be strenuous - clients should be able to walk comfortably for min 2hrs, sometimes over steep terrain. Suitable clothing & walking boots are essential. The age restriction for chimp viewing is 12 and over.