Nomad Greystoke Mahale Camp

Located on a crescent of powdery sand where the dense emerald forest meets the shimmering waters of the lake, Greystoke is enchanting in every way. The distinctive main ‘winged’ banda commands centre stage on the beach and is a cool, easy-breezy space dotted with armchairs and beanbags—the perfect spot to relax after a hard day’s ‘chimping.’ There is a small dining area but meals are usually served on the beach, castaway-style, making the most of the verdant views.

The six castaway chic rooms are scattered along the edge of the beach and with their thatched roofs and reclaimed dhow wood walls, each blends seamlessly into the surroundings. Downstairs, there are seriously comfy beds complete with feather pillows, and a little dressing area whilst upstairs is reserved entirely for chilling with a sofa, beanbags and spectacular views to assist. Bathrooms are at the back along a short boardwalk with hot water on tap.

If you hadn’t guessed, Greystoke’s raison d’etre is chimps. Lots of chimps. Trekking takes place in the mountains and there is a group of around 60 chimps that most guests set out to view. Hikes can take from 2 to 7 hours and the pathways are bumpy and sometimes steep so a general level of fitness is required. But when you catch sight of the chimps foraging in the leafy undergrowth, everything else is forgotten. This is exceptional wildlife viewing at its very, very best.