On the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika
Greystoke Camp lies on a far-flung beach below a huge tropical forest.
Location: Greystoke Mahale sits on the remote shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, backed by the forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains. Accessible only by boat, this jungle-chic lodge offers a rare and magical experience in one of Africa’s most untouched wilderness areas, home to the largest wild chimpanzee population outside of captivity.
Rooms: The camp features six open-fronted bandas, crafted from reclaimed dhow wood and nestled at the forest’s edge with sweeping views of the lake. Designed to blend into the environment, these rustic yet stylish rooms offer privacy and comfort, with en-suite bathrooms and upstairs chill-out decks that invite stargazing and relaxation.
Amenities: The central mess area, also built from dhow timber, houses the dining space, bar, and library, opening directly onto a white-sand beach. Meals are freshly prepared and served with a view of the water, while the beach bar is perfect for sunset drinks after a day of forest trekking or lake kayaking.
Activities: The highlight is tracking habituated chimpanzees through dense forest with expert guides. Guests can also explore the rich biodiversity of Mahale, kayak along the shoreline, snorkel in the gin-clear lake, or visit Katumbi village to see community initiatives supported by the camp. Wildlife sightings include red-tailed monkeys, colourful turacos, and rare insects.
Sustainability: Greystoke supports conservation through careful ecological practices and by funding community health and education in Katumbi village. From solar-powered schools to locally sourced materials, the camp is deeply committed to protecting both the environment and local livelihoods.
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Mahale Mountains Trip Inspiration
When to go to Tanzania
Find out the best time to visit Tanzania with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is mixed when it comes to weather, temperatures rise whilst the chance of rain and humidity increases. It is still a good time to go, as the rates are lower yet the game viewing is still excellent.
- During this time migratory herds are in the Serengeti for calving season, meaning the Ndutu plains are busy.
February
The weather remains hot with a chance of rain in February.
- Meanwhile in the Ndutu Plains the migration is still occurring.
March
March is the calm before the storm, before heavy rains and humidity builds. Visitors can take great advantage of lower rates during the low season.
- Migrating herds start to leave Ndutu, heading West towards Grumeti.
April
April experiences continued periods of heavy rain, we would advise against travel due to the conditions.
May
During may there is periods of heavy rain, we would advise against travel due to the conditions.
June
June heralds the wet season, bringing lush green vegetation which can make spotting game more difficult. It is a particularly great time for birders as parks become populated by migratory birds especially in the South.
- Migration is still in the Grumeti area, heading north.
July
July is the start of peak season, temperatures reach up to 30 degrees and the surrounding land becomes drier and spotting game is becoming easier.
- The migration is in the Northern Serengeti moving towards Kenya.
August
August is peak season, with bush land drying out game spotting becomes much easier. If you want to experience Tanzania game at its best, August is the time to travel.
- The migration still remains in the north.
September
Peak season continues in September, the Northern circuit can be very busy, if you want to avoid crowds it's best to visit the southern parks.
- The end of the migration is still in the north with herds on both side of the Kenyan and Tanzanian borders.
October
Peak season continues into October with good game viewing in the Serengeti and southern parks.
- The migration has now crossed over into Kenya.
November
November is the start of the rainy season, the rains tend to be overnight so it is still a popular time to travel. During this month you can take advantage of low season rates.
- Migration crossing over into the Serengeti can be seen a the Tanzania and Kenya border.
December
Rains continue in December, whilst the temperature and humidity start to build. Venturing out on safari is generally good, with large game still easily spotted.
- Migrating herds in the north travel south back to Ndutu.
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