Mbali Mbali Mahale

Quite romantically located on sandy white beaches of Lake Tanganyika with the Mahale Mountains as a backdrop, this lodge is an activity rich retreat with a bit of luxury thrown in. Each of the nine tents have four poster beds and are raised up on hardwood floors with the forest subtly creeping up behind them. The private patio areas are perfect for a morning coffee while enjoying views over the clear waters of the lake and the odd splash as fish chase their breakfast in the calm waters.

If you fancy simply enjoying your surroundings, you will be able to go off on a boat safari and seek out the wildlife that lines this beautiful lake. Kayaking and snorkelling are also great ways to explore these ancient waters and fishing in the lake is also a fun activity for those who enjoy catching their supper. Nile perch and the delicious yellow belly are often caught but every so often, you might also ‘catch Africa’ and have to do some negotiating with the bottom of the lake!

With a population of chimps scouting the forest behind the lodge, you have the chance to hike up to find them and observe their human-like qualities. This might take you a while however, so make sure that you are ready to face some potentially long hikes but once you find the family groups, you will instantly be rewarded. Nothing is guaranteed, except for the adventure.