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!