Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Established in 1992, Udzungwa Mountains National Park was officially inaugurated by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands, the former President and founder of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The park’s name is derived from “Wadsungwa,” a native sub-tribe of the Hehe people who historically inhabited the mountain slopes. Spanning an impressive 1,990 square kilometers, the park’s geography is divided between the Morogoro region (20%) and the southern highlands of Iringa (80%).
How To Get There
The park is easily accessible by road from Dar es Salaam (380 km), as well as from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Mbeya. For those preferring air travel, the nearby Msolwa and Kilombero airstrips accommodate chartered flights. From there, visitors can hire vehicles to reach the main gate. Please note that all travel arrangements—whether by bus, tour operator, or charter flight—should be scheduled in advance according to provided departure and arrival timetables.
Best Time for Park Visit
The park is stunning year-round, but the dry season (June to September) offers excellent hiking conditions. The wet season (November to March) transforms the landscape into a vibrant display of blooming wildflowers and abundant butterflies. For bird enthusiasts, December to February is the optimal time to visit, as many migratory species nest within the park during this period.
Park Attractions
Udzungwa is filled with captivating points of interest, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural significance, and thrilling adventures for every type of explorer.
Waterfalls
The heavy forest is alive with the soothing sounds of cascading water, as numerous streams flow into breathtaking natural waterfalls scattered throughout the park.
Natural trails for hiking
Excellent hiking trails provide the opportunity to summit the park’s highest peaks, Luhomero and Mwanihana. While hiking is available year-round, the dry season provides the most favorable conditions for mountain climbers.
Reptiles and Amphibians
The park is a haven for unique wildlife, including the endemic Udzungwa lizard (Cnemaspis udzungwae), the Phrynobatrachus udzungwensis frog, and the rare bearded pygmy chameleon.
Tropical Rain forest
Explore a lush, evergreen tropical rainforest home to over 2,500 distinct plant species. This incredibly biodiverse habitat includes three endemic plants and 160 species known for their medicinal properties.
Sanje Crested Mangabey and Iringa Red Colobus Monkeys
Udzungwa is a primate paradise, hosting eleven different species. Most notably, it is one of the only places you will find the endemic Sanje crested mangabey and the Iringa red colobus monkey.
Tourism Activities
Visitors can engage in a wide variety of exciting activities during their stay. Options include mountain climbing to the peaks of Mwanihana (2,500m) and Luhomero (2,576m), bird watching, swimming, nature walks, picnicking, filming, camping, cultural tourism, and guided cycling outside the park boundaries.
Mountain Climbing
Challenge yourself by summiting the towering peaks of Luhomero and Mwanihana. Although climbing is permitted all year, the dry season is highly recommended for the best experience.
Bird watching
Bird watching is spectacular along the trails, roads, and throughout the dense forest. Depending on the season, a diverse array of native and migratory birds can be spotted. With the help of expert park guides detailing specific locations and behaviors, you may even encounter rare endemics like the Udzungwa forest partridge and the rufous-winged sunbird.
Photographing and Filming
The park’s pristine, tranquil environment makes it an exceptional destination for nature photography and filming year-round. The short rains bring the forest to life with blooming wildflowers and clouds of butterflies, making it an especially magical time for capturing vibrant images. Additionally, the period between December and February is perfect for photographing a variety of migratory birds.
Camping
Immerse yourself in the wilderness by spending the night at one of the park’s designated campsites. Relax under the canopy, listen to the chorus of forest birds and nocturnal wildlife, and fall asleep to the peaceful sound of a nearby flowing stream.
Cycling
Enjoy a scenic and active excursion by cycling through the areas surrounding the park. These guided rides take you through local villages and lush rubber plantations, offering a great physical activity to complement your safari experience.
Cultural tourism
Engage with the rich heritage of the surrounding communities. Cultural tours offer visitors the chance to learn about native farming practices, witness traditional dances, view local dress patterns, and taste authentic regional food and beverages.
Swimming
The eastern section of the park features dense rainforests that feed numerous permanent rivers flowing into the Kilombero Valley. These rivers form refreshing natural plunge pools at the base of several waterfalls, offering the perfect spot for a swim year-round. Do not forget to pack your swimsuit!
Accommodation
A variety of lodging options are available both inside and outside the park to suit every traveler’s needs, including beautifully situated public and special camping grounds.
Twiga Hotel
Located just 500 meters from the park’s main gate, this hotel offers 14 self-contained, air-conditioned bedrooms with a total capacity of 30 beds. Guests also have the option to camp within the secure hotel compound at specific rates.
Campsites
The park features nearly 12 designated camping areas, all nestled within the cool, scenic mountain forest for a truly wild experience.
Hondohondo Luxury Camp
Situated just 2 kilometers from the park, this privately owned and operated luxury tented camp provides a premium, comfortable stay close to nature.