Greystoke Mahale

The serene lakeside setting and natural beauty makes guests feel as though they are on their own private island.

• The thrill of seeing chimps in the wild
• The many water activities like kayak and sailing trips and waterfall visits

Inspiration hit in 1988, when Roland Purcell first came across this pristine stretch of beach along Lake Tangankiya, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake that sits on the border of western Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Overwhelmed by the spot’s natural beauty, with the 8,000-foot Mahale Mountains looming just beyond, Purcell developed Greystoke Mahale, a sustainable eco-lodge that has now been open for more than 20 years.

The main hall is the only visible structure from the beach. Made from entirely sustainable materials and reclaimed wood, the building hardly interrupts the tropical forest line. Six lodgings are set back into the lush greenery, steps from the beach but shrouded by the jungle canopy. Abundant activities take advantage of the unspoiled locale: chimpanzee hikes are a must-do, but guests can also swim in the mountain’s many waterfalls, kayak along the lake, sail an indigenous wooden dhowat sunset or simply relax at the romantic, dimly lit bar.

Eco-friendly travelers who are looking for a remote location and untouched vibe. Children over the age of eight are welcome (but only the twelve-plus set can opt to see the chimps).