Greystoke Mahale travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Reaching Greystoke Mahale is an adventure. It is set on the remote eastern shores of vast Lake Tanganyika, and getting to the camp involves a four-hour flight on a small plane from Arusha, followed by a ninety-minute dhow trip on the lake. There are no roads within 60 miles (100 km) of this secluded sanctuary, and it is a two-hour boat ride to the nearest town. It is well off the tourist map, so if you are seeking solitude, Greystoke Mahale has plenty.

Accommodation consists of six traditional thatched huts, common in Central America. The beach fronted huts are stylishly designed, with open fronts, spacious decks, and interiors crafted from old dhow timber, giving the camp a look and feel of modest, rustic charm. 

At night, gaze at the starts while enjoying a barefoot meal at the water’s edge, sip cocktails on a dhow, or head to the bar, which is set picturesquely in the rocky headland. The dining area has four decks that face in every direction, affording fabulous views of the landscape. The lodge also has a library of rare books on the local wildlife. 

Behind the lodges are the dense forests of the Mahale Mountains, home to Africa‘s last remaining wild chimpanzees, mankind’s closest relative. Trek through the lush rain forest to spot the endangered primates as they swing noisily and energetically from tree to tree. The rain forest is dotted with waterfalls and giant verdant vines and populated by leopards, monkeys, porcupines, mongooses, butterflies, and birds. 

There are treasures, too, to be found beneath the lake’s transparent water, where 250 species of tropical fish reside, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling and kayaking. With no cell phone reception or wireless Internet, this is a perfect hideaway. Location: Tanzania. Photos by: ianthegecko and kkwhite919