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Chimpanzee Encounters

Meeting Chimpanzees At Greystoke Mahale

Fifty years ago, millions of chimpanzee lived throughout equatorial Africa. Today, they are listed as endangered. There are only 170,000 to 300,000 left and, with their habitat under constant threat, their numbers are declining rapidly. The eastern chimpanzee range has been reduced to the Central African Republic and Democratic Republic of Congo, western Uganda, Rwanda and western Tanzania. Chimpanzee live in a range of habitats including tropical rainforests, dry woodlands and savannah.

A fascinating fact is that groups of chimpanzee living in different regions have unique behaviours, tools and traditions that are passed down from one generation to the next. They are highly sociable creatures that live in communities of up to 120 individuals. Chimpanzee communicate by using vocalisations, hand gestures and facial expressions.

Indulge yourself

ACTIVITIES

Tanzania offers chimpanzee experiences in three different locations – Mahale and Gombe — each of which is slightly different. Our recommended location is Mbali Mbali is the perfect blend of comfort and luxury in a romantic setting. Mahale is 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 and there is little that beats an amble through the forest. Here, guests can enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure by assisting in the rangers’ efforts to habituate the chimpanzees to humans.

The park was originally established as a haven for endangered species by Professor Bernhard Grzimek of the Frankfurt Zoological Society. Over a 4-year period (1966–69), he released 16 chimpanzees rescued from European zoos — the first-ever attempt to rehabilitate captive chimpanzees. They have now reverted to an unhabituated state characteristic of wild chimpanzees. From just 16, the population has grown to around 35.

This project has not only been beneficial for the chimpanzees, but it has also had a considerable positive impact on the island itself. By introducing the chimps  as well as other species such as elephants and antelope  the island’s biodiversity was increased and its habitats strengthened, enabling all species to thrive. Turning RubondoIsland into a profitable, sustainable travel destination has benefited the local economy and ensured the viability of this wildlife sanctuary for generations to come.

Rubondo is situated between the Serengeti and Rwanda, making it an ideal stop on an African safari itinerary or gorilla-trekking trip.

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Helicopter flights

Scenic flights

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Helicopter flights

Scenic flights

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GALLERY

Karibu Masaai Mara

LUXURY ACCOMODATION

From remote safari camps to world-class resorts, our selected properties are hand-picked by our experts and endorsed by our guests. Often intimate, always exceptional, we’ll choose the perfect lodges, hotels, and villas to suit your personal style and interests.

ANGAMA MARA CAMP

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SERIAN ‘THE ORIGINAL’

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NEPTUNE MARA RIANTA CAMP

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Your travel guide

WHEN TO VISIT

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OUR BOOKING PROCESS

We know how planning a safari can be stressful, but we have made things so easy for you. Get inspiration from our website or call us! Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, we are for you. We are ready to create your unique safari adventure.

Reach Out

Call us or fill in our contact form. Tell us your dream and we’ll start planning your safari.

Customize

Your personal safari concierge will get in touch with you to start putting together your personalized safari itinerary.

Optimize

We will refine the itinerary by looking at all the factors. We will not stop until we get your perfect safari at the best price.

Safiri

Receive your EOS travel documents, get set and go on the best adventure of your life!

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