Mbali Mbali Mahale

Mbali Mbali Mahale is one of five beautiful lodges in Tanzania under the Mbali Mbali umbrella. “Mbali Mbali” translates to “Far, Far Away” in Swahili and its lodges transport you to some incredibly diverse ecological areas – to a wilderness unparalleled.

Boasting a backdrop formed by the dramatic Mahale Mountain range, and the crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika in the foreground, this secluded and romantic hideaway is the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury.

At Mbali Mbali Mahale, guests are offered a pristine, natural experience open to those willing to walk its trails. The birds, primates, monkeys, small predators and butterflies, all offer signs of life in the Mahale National Park, and there is little that beats an amble through the forest.

There are 10 Beach Tents, each well-appointed and strategically positioned to offer guests privacy, while still allowing easy access to the beach and communal areas. Each tent is on a raised platform, with a private deck providing views of Lake Tanganyika and the beach; each tent has 24-hour electricity and hot and cold running water. The tents provide self-contained mosquito nets around the beds and bathroom.

Why we like it here

The primary activity in the park is chimpanzee tracking, carefully monitored so as to reduce human impact on the famous habituated chimps.

Spend blissful afternoons on the private stretch of sheltered golden beach and finish the day by the campfire with the Milky Way shining down.

The price of comfort has not been at the cost of the environment. Mbali Mbali Mahale is powered by solar energy and much care has been taken to reduce our carbon footprint.

Take a gentle boat safari on the lake, or opt for a fishing excursion, where you may encounter crocodile, hippo and otter as well as an abundance of birdlife.

Kayaks are available for exploring the lake at your leisure.

Complimentary Wi-Fi in the rooms / tents.

At the end of 2018 an extensive rebuilding and refurbishment project was completed. There is now a brand new double-volume lounge and dining room with a beanbag-filled viewing lounge. On the beach there are new salas and pool loungers to relax on after a day of trekking. For the perfect sundowners or private evening dinner the wooden jetty was extended. The rooms also received a beautiful makeover completely removing the old tents, extending the floor space and building new roofs. The side walls now have stretched canvas complimented by brand new furniture from front to back. In the back of the rooms you will find new double-basin bathrooms.

Things to be aware of

Daily chimpanzee trekking in groups of a maximum of 6 guests.

Children of all ages are welcome in the camp but the minimum participating age for chimpanzee trekking (as determined by TANAPA) is 15 years old.

Where we are situated