At Chimps Camps, our commitment to wildlife conservation is at the heart of everything we do. The establishment of Sokwe Lodge outside the park boundaries is a testament to our dedication to preserving the delicate balance between tourism and the well-being of chimpanzees.

Why Outside the Park?

Chimpanzees in regions like Gombe and Mahale have faced numerous health challenges over the years, often linked to human interactions. Studies have documented various disease outbreaks that have severely impacted chimpanzee populations.

Documented Disease Outbreaks:

• Gombe National Park:
  • 1966: A suspected polio outbreak paralyzed several chimpanzees. (Source: Goodall, J. (1986). The Chimpanzees of Gombe.)
  • 1996: A severe respiratory epidemic led to at least 11 chimpanzee deaths. (Source: Goldberg et al., 2007, Emerging Infectious Diseases.)
  • 1997: A scabies outbreak affected multiple chimpanzees. (Source: Wallis & Lee, 1999, American Journal of Primatology.)
• Mahale Mountains National Park:
  • 2006: A flu-like respiratory disease resulted in up to 12 chimpanzee deaths. (Source: Hanamura et al., 2008, Primates Journal.)

Cause of Disease Transmission

Research indicates that human proximity to chimpanzees increases the likelihood of zoonotic disease transmission. Respiratory infections and skin diseases observed in wild chimpanzees have often been linked to interactions with tourists, researchers, and park staff. (Source: Köndgen et al., 2008, Current Biology.)

Solution: Sustainable Tourism Outside the Park

By situating Sokwe Lodge outside the park, we aim to:

• Minimize Human-Wildlife Contact: Reducing direct interactions decreases the risk of disease transmission, ensuring that our closest relatives in the animal kingdom thrive in their natural habitats.
• Promote Sustainable Tourism: Guests can experience the wonders of chimpanzee behavior without intruding upon their environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.

Our Commitment to Conservation

Beyond the strategic location of Sokwe Lodge, Chimps Camps is dedicated to:

• Community Engagement: We work closely with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of chimpanzee conservation and the role they play in this effort.
• Research and Monitoring: Collaborating with wildlife experts, we support ongoing research to monitor chimpanzee health and implement measures to protect them from potential threats.
• Eco-Friendly Practices: Our lodges are designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that our ecological footprint is minimal and that we contribute positively to the surrounding environment.

Be an Advocate for Chimpanzee Conservation

We invite our guests to become advocates for chimpanzee conservation. By choosing to stay with us at Sokwe Lodge, you are not only supporting sustainable tourism but also setting an example for others. Your experience and voice can inspire more people to understand that it is possible to protect these incredible animals while enjoying their beauty from a respectful distance.

Share your journey, tell your story, and let’s build a community of conservation champions. Together, we can safeguard the future of chimpanzees.

At Chimps Camps, we believe that thoughtful tourism and conservation can go hand in hand. Sokwe Lodge embodies this philosophy, offering guests an unforgettable experience while safeguarding the future of our cherished chimpanzees.

Discover the Ultimate African Safari: Mahale & Katavi – A Journey Beyond Compare
Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Escape to Tanzania’s untamed western frontier, where the secluded Mahale Mountains National Park and Katavi National Park promise an extraordinary safari experience. These hidden gems are a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike, combining untouched wilderness with intimate wildlife encounters.

Why Choose Mahale & Katavi for Your Safari?
Tired of crowded parks? Longing for a more authentic and serene experience? Mahale and Katavi offer the perfect getaway for those seeking unparalleled beauty and tranquility.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Venture into lush, tropical forests to encounter wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Relax in the lap of luxury at Sokwe Lodge, situated on the pristine shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Katavi National Park: Witness massive herds of elephants, hippos, and buffalo gather at remote waterholes. Catch sight of crocodiles basking in the sun or predators in action. Every moment feels like a scene from a wildlife documentary.
This safari seamlessly blends adventure with serenity. Activities such as chimpanzee trekking, kayaking, and sunset cruises ensure an unforgettable journey.

Exceptional Accommodation for an Unforgettable Experience
Your safari is not just about wildlife – it’s about comfort and relaxation too. Enjoy luxurious stays at Ihama Lodge and Sokwe Lodge, where hospitality meets the heart of the wilderness.

Ihama Lodge – Your Gateway to Katavi.

• Nestled near Katavi National Park, Ihama Lodge offers the perfect base to explore this untamed paradise.
• Authentic Safari Ambiance: Experience the charm of a traditional African safari lodge with modern amenities.
• Spacious Rooms: Relax in comfortable, well-appointed rooms designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
• Gourmet Dining: Savor delicious meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, served in a serene setting.
• After thrilling game drives or walking safaris in Katavi, return to the lodge to unwind in peaceful surroundings.

Sokwe Lodge – Luxury on the Shores of Lake Tanganyika

• Located in Mahale Mountains National Park, Sokwe Lodge offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and nature.
• Stunning Location: Situated on the crystal-clear shores of Lake Tanganyika, the lodge provides breathtaking lake views and easy access to Mahale’s chimpanzee trekking trails.
• Class Comfort: Stay in private, elegant suites equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable retreat.
• Exclusive Activities: Enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, or even scuba diving in the lake’s pristine waters.
• Whether you’re resting after a day of chimpanzee trekking or simply soaking in the tranquility of the lake, Sokwe Lodge ensures your stay is as remarkable as the safari itself.

Mahale: Trek, Unwind, and Explore

• Begin your adventure in Mahale, home to one of the largest wild chimpanzee populations in Africa. Trek through dense, emerald forests and feel the thrill of observing these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Watch as they play, communicate, and interact – a sight that will leave you in awe.
• After an exhilarating day, retreat to Sokwe Lodge for a well-deserved rest. Swim in the lake, indulge in gourmet meals, or simply relax while gazing at the star-studded sky.

Katavi: Africa’s Untamed Wilderness
Step into Katavi, where wildlife thrives and human footprints are scarce. This remote park is a sanctuary for some of Africa’s most iconic species. Picture vast herds of elephants, playful hippos, and prowling predators like lions and leopards.

Highlights of Katavi include:

• Walking safaris that bring you face-to-face with nature.
• Biking tours through unspoiled landscapes.
• Night game drives to uncover the secrets of nocturnal wildlife.

After your day’s adventures, return to the comfort of Ihama Lodge, where you’ll enjoy warm hospitality and serene surroundings.

When to Visit Mahale & Katavi
The best time to explore these hidden treasures is between June and November. During this dry season, wildlife congregates around waterholes, providing unparalleled viewing opportunities. Whether you’re chasing adventure or seeking tranquility, this is the prime window to visit.

How to Get There
Your journey begins with a flight from Dar es Salaam to Mpanda Town. From there, enjoy a scenic drive to Mahale and Katavi. Alternatively, scheduled flights between Mahale and Katavi allow you to maximize your time in these parks.
At the end of each day, unwind in comfort at Ihama Lodge and Sokwe Lodge, ensuring your safari is as luxurious as it is adventurous.

Don’t Wait – Start Your Adventure Today!
Uncover the magic of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of wild chimpanzees or the thrill of spotting big game in untamed landscapes, this safari promises memories to last a lifetime.
Contact us now to plan your dream safari and secure your stay at Ihama Lodge and Sokwe Lodge. Your African adventure awaits!

When planning your safari adventure in Western Tanzania, choosing the right accommodation goes beyond just comfort — it’s about experiencing nature in its rawest form while contributing to conservation and supporting local communities. At Chimps Camps, we carefully select lodges that reflect our values of sustainability, community engagement, and authentic wildlife encounters. Let’s explore why Ihama Lodge, Chui Fly Camp, and Sokwe Lodge are the perfect choices for your next safari.

Ihama Lodge — Where Wildlife Meets Serenity

Nestled along the banks of the Katuma River, Ihama Lodge offers a front-row seat to some of Katavi’s most iconic wildlife. The river attracts a vibrant array of animals — hippos wallow in its waters, elephants gather at the riverbanks, and graceful giraffes roam the surrounding plains. For those seeking more than just game drives, Ihama Lodge arranges walking safaris and riverbank walks, offering an up-close experience with the park’s natural beauty. Additionally, the lodge offers unique activities like night game drives, where the nocturnal world of Katavi comes alive, and forest biking, allowing guests to pedal through the wilderness, immersing themselves in the park’s untouched beauty.

Choosing Ihama Lodge means choosing a rich, immersive experience with the region’s wildlife while enjoying a serene stay in harmony with nature.

Chui Fly Camp — A Haven for the Adventurous

For travelers yearning for solitude and unfiltered wilderness, Chui Fly Camp is the ideal escape. Situated in the heart of the Miombo forest or deep within Ugalla River National Park, this camp is designed for those who love being truly off the grid — surrounded by vast stretches of forest and the distant calls of wildlife. The camp also serves as a base for exploring Issa Valley through guided forest hikes, allowing guests to traverse remote trails and discover the region’s natural wonders.

Chui Fly Camp embraces the spirit of adventure and raw exploration — perfect for those seeking to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature.

Sokwe Lodge — Sustainability at Its Core

Sokwe Lodge stands as a symbol of responsible tourism. Unlike many lodges located within Mahale National Park, Chimps Camps deliberately chose to establish Sokwe Lodge outside the park boundaries. This conscious decision was driven by a commitment to reducing human activity within the park, helping preserve its fragile ecosystem and protect the last standing population of wild chimpanzees.

Understanding the impact of tourism on nature, Chimps Camps opted for sustainability over convenience. To further support conservation and make Mahale more accessible to visitors, they established two camps, keeping prices reasonable and drawing more tourists to the area. This, in turn, fosters local economic growth — offering an alternative to overfishing by providing new employment opportunities in hospitality and tourism.

By boosting visitor numbers, we not only open doors for community involvement but also create an ongoing dialogue with local residents, encouraging them to see the value of preserving the chimpanzees’ habitat. Every guest who stays at Sokwe Lodge becomes part of a larger mission — protecting Mahale’s natural heritage while supporting the livelihoods of its people.

More Than Just a Stay — A Commitment to Conservation

At Chimps Camps, we believe that choosing the right lodge is about more than luxury — it’s about making a difference. Ihama Lodge, Chui Fly Camp, and Sokwe Lodge each offer unique experiences, but together they represent our dedication to sustainable tourism, community empowerment, and the preservation of Western Tanzania’s precious ecosystems.

Join us on a journey where your safari not only brings you closer to nature but also leaves a lasting, positive impact on the land and its people.

Ready to explore Katavi, Ugalla, and Mahale? Let’s plan your adventure today!

Katavi Wild Mushrooms: A Taste of the Tanzanian Wilderness

At our lodge by the serene shores of Lake Tanganyika, we are proud to offer a unique culinary experience — Katavi Wild Mushrooms. These mushrooms, handpicked from the untouched forests of Katavi National Park, capture the essence of Tanzania’s wild beauty and bring a natural, earthy flavor to your plate.

What Makes Katavi Wild Mushrooms Special?

Our mushrooms are not farmed — they grow naturally in the rich, diverse landscapes of Katavi. Carefully harvested by local foragers who know the forest’s hidden treasures, these mushrooms are then dried at optimal temperatures (between 40–50°C) to preserve their color, aroma, and flavor.

How We Prepare Them

To ensure their taste and nutrients remain intact, the mushrooms undergo a slow-drying process. This method locks in their unique, wild flavor — a perfect addition to soups, stews, or even as a side dish during your stay.

We also incorporate these mushrooms into some of our lodge’s signature dishes, giving you a true taste of Katavi’s natural wonders. Whether you’re enjoying a warm mushroom soup after a long day of exploring or sampling them in a rich, local sauce, these flavors tell a story of the land.

Take a Piece of Katavi Home

For those who want to bring home a piece of Tanzania, we offer Katavi Wild Mushrooms in eco-friendly packaging. Our bags and jars are designed to reflect the raw beauty of Katavi — simple, natural, and sustainable. Each package comes with:

• 100% Wild and Natural mushrooms
• No Preservatives — Just Pure Flavor
• A small card with easy-to-follow recipes or tips for rehydrating and cooking the mushrooms

Supporting Local Communities

By offering these mushrooms, we also support local communities who gather them, encouraging sustainable practices and promoting the use of Katavi’s natural resources in a responsible way.

Experience the Wild Flavors of Katavi

We invite you to taste these earthy delights during your stay at our lodge. And if you fall in love with their unique flavor, don’t forget to take some home — a perfect reminder of your unforgettable journey through the heart of Western Tanzania.

The Alpha Male Challenge: A True Test of Strength and Skill

At our lodge, we believe in crafting unforgettable experiences, and the Alpha Male Challenge is at the heart of it all. This isn’t just any fishing contest—it’s an exhilarating test of strength, skill, and determination, where guests compete to catch the biggest fish from the deep, rich waters of Lake Tanganyika.

A Contest Like No Other

The Alpha Male Challenge is not for the faint-hearted. As you cast your line into one of the most biodiverse and challenging fishing environments on the planet, you’ll face off with some of the toughest fish in the region. The ultimate prize? Catching the largest fish and earning the right to have your name immortalized on our Alpha Male Board, where winners are ranked by the weight of their catch. It’s a true testament to your prowess and a bragging right that lasts forever!

Catch and Eat: A Feast Like No Other

One of the unique advantages of staying at our lodge is that our fishing experience is catch and eat—no fish are released back into the lake. What you catch becomes part of the feast, ensuring you and your fellow guests enjoy the freshest fish, cooked to perfection in a variety of mouthwatering dishes. From grilled fillets to savory fish stews, the lake’s bounty will fill your plate and your heart with satisfaction.

A Meal That’s Built by You

After the competition, the winners will contribute their fish to a communal feast in our Open Kitchen, where the entire lodge gathers to celebrate your victory. This shared experience not only nourishes the body but also brings everyone closer together as part of a tight-knit community.

Connect with the Local Culture

But the adventure doesn’t end with fishing. We believe in providing a rich cultural experience that allows guests to truly immerse themselves in the way of life of the local community. After your fishing day, you’ll have the chance to explore the village and share an evening with the locals. Whether it’s sharing stories around a campfire or learning about the traditional ways of life, this is a perfect opportunity to connect with the people who call this beautiful region home.

The Ultimate Reward: A Spot on the Alpha Male Board

The thrill of the catch is only part of the reward. As you compete, you’ll be striving for a place on our Alpha Male Board, where we proudly display the names and fish weights of the lodge’s top competitors. If you manage to reel in the largest catch, your name will join the ranks of the most legendary anglers to stay at our lodge. It’s a tradition, a challenge, and a story you’ll carry with you forever.

Spotlight on Winners: Social Media Recognition

The excitement doesn’t stop at the lodge. We take pride in celebrating our Alpha Male Challenge winners by publishing the results on our social media platforms. Each victor gets their moment of fame, with their catch and victory proudly shared with our global community. It’s a chance to relive the thrill and showcase your achievement to the world!

The Taste of Tradition: A Culinary Adventure at Sokwe Lodge

At our lodge, food is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. We take pride in creating dishes that not only delight the senses but also tell the story of our beautiful surroundings in Western Tanzania. Each dish served at our Open Kitchen is made with local wild spices, vegetables from our own gardens, and the freshest fish caught straight from the pristine waters of Lake Tanganyika.

Local Wild Spices & Fresh Vegetables: A Flavorful Connection to Nature

Our chefs know the forest around the lodge like the back of their hands, constantly on the lookout for new wild spices that add unique flavors to our dishes. These spices are handpicked from the natural environment, ensuring that each meal is an authentic representation of the local flora. Along with these wild spices, we also use fresh vegetables grown in our gardens, making sure every dish is as sustainable and fresh as it is delicious.

The Alpha Male Challenge: A Test of Skill, Strength, and Community

One of the most exciting and interactive experiences at the lodge is our Alpha Male Challenge. Here, tourists are invited to compete against each other in a thrilling fish-catching competition. The challenge isn’t just about catching the biggest fish—it’s about working together as a community. The fish caught during the challenge are used to prepare a communal meal that feeds everyone in the lodge, reinforcing a sense of shared accomplishment and connection.

Lake Tanganyika: The Heart of Our Cuisine

Lake Tanganyika isn’t just a breathtaking landscape—it’s the source of some of the finest fish in the region. Our chefs work closely with local fishermen to bring in the freshest catch, which forms the backbone of many of our signature dishes. From crispy fried fish to savory stews, the lake provides a taste of Tanzania that’s impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Sustainability and Local Partnerships: Supporting Our Community

As we continue to innovate in the kitchen, we remain committed to sustainability and supporting the local community. By using local ingredients and sourcing fish directly from the lake, we ensure that our meals are not only delicious but also responsible. Our chefs, with their deep knowledge of the land and its flavors, work alongside local farmers and fishermen to create a menu that’s both satisfying and sustainable.

At our lodge, food is not just about eating—it’s about experiencing the land, the culture, and the adventure of Tanzania in every bite. Whether you’re competing in the Alpha Male Challenge or enjoying a peaceful meal overlooking Lake Tanganyika, we promise that every meal will leave you with a lasting memory of the flavors of the wild.