Greystoke

Remotely located on a stretch of white sandy beach, at the foot of the densely forested Mahale Mountains in Tanzania - home to Africa’s largest population of wild chimpanzees - is Greystoke Mahale. This ‘jungle chic lodge’, which is accessible only through tailor-made travel, is a unique, high end tented-camp that offers an excellent base for chimp viewing as well as mesmerising scenery and undiscovered adventures. 

There are just six open-fronted, A-frame bandas overlooking the crystal clear waters of Lake Tanganyika. Built in Robinson-crusoe style with a thatched roof and bamboo blinds each unit is set a little further back from the beach, nestled amongst idigneous vegetation which provides a wonderful feeling of seclusion. There are no doors, no windows and no zips - each one is completely open at the front end - although heavy curtains can be pulled closed for privacy. 

The main attraction here is the superb chimp trekking and adventure-filled walks through the rainforests and hills of Mahale National Park, which is home to 82 species of mammals and the only park where lions and chimpanzees exist side by side. Kayaking on Lake Tanganyika as well as sailing on traditional ‘dhow’ allows for a very beautiful nature cruise along the shore.