Mahale, in Western Tanzania is one of the world’s most stunning and remote places on the Earth. Lush rain forest flow down the mountains to Lake Tanganyka. Congo appears in the distance over the misty waters while huge numbers of monkeys and primates make this paradise their home. This includes large numbers of Chimpanzees.
But how can you join the traveling elite in having the exciting safari adventures without completely emptying your bank balance?
Budgeting the accommodation:
Mahale currently offers three options of accommodation, two super luxury (and very expensive) and the government bandas (Mango Tree). The two luxury lodges will organize everything for you but you will need deep pockets. Paying thousands of $ per night.
There is a budget alternative. The government run Mahale Mango Tree Bandas offer 5 well equipped units.You might just be surprised on how well run and how good the facilities are.
Facilities you can get at the Mango Tree Bandas:
5 self contained Bandas, each with two beds.
Separate built in-suit shower and toilet.
Mahale keeps numbers down on purpose within the park (Chimps need their space). The Bandas are located about 100 m from the beach within the rain forest. While not luxury, they are very well appointed and comfortable. Hot water is both solar and from the generator. Solar powered electricity is available 24 hours every day.
There is a central building with kitchen and dinning/lecturer room along with a satellite tv. The kitchen is very basic but has all the cooking equipment, plates and cutlery you will need. They have a two ring gas stove, a fridge and running water. Remember this is jungle so you need to get creative on protecting your food from wildlife.
Yellow baboons and velvet monkeys are regular visitors, and will love to get their hands on your supplies.
Officially you need to be self sufficient and bring in all your own food. However, if you contact the management they can organize food and a cook. This not only gives back to the community but also makes your life much easier. If you have not organized this before you arrive then definitely bring in your own food.
Regarding water, if you have not brought enough bottled water for your duration then purify the water from the tap. We use water purification tablets and then the Sawyer Mini water filter for our cooking.
Getting in Mahale:
Book Safari Airlink from Katavi (a somewhat exciting flight). When it is time to leave, organize travel by boat and car to Kigoma with the staff.
If you are coming in from another National Park, Safari Airlink - www.flysal.com is probably the best way to fly in and out. They fly on Monday and Thursday, else Kigoma is your next easiest route and transport can be organized by The Trails of East Africa.
The other options are by charter boat (expect to pay $3k, yes I did say $3,000, and it takes 4/5 hours from Kigoma), Lake taxi from Ujiji ($4 but dangerous and can take over 24 hours with no toilet), or the MV Liemba ($35 but often not sailing). If you are not flying into the airstrip I would recommend using the Trails of East Africa we can arrage speed boat transfers and also book Mv. Liemba if you would wish . From Kigoma we can organize a car to Herembe (3 hours), then a boat to the Bandas (2 hours).
All these prices are subject to change. Please check with us first for updated cost.
All park, guide and Banda fees can be paid on the invoice. If you get us to organize cooking, food or drinks, youw ouldn't have to face any budgeting hassle.