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Udzungwa National Park

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Home / Destinations / Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Tanzania’s Lush Hiking Heaven

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a biodiversity hotspot and tropical wonderland in south-central Tanzania. Often overlooked in favor of the “Big Five” parks, Udzungwa offers something truly special—mystical rainforests, rare primates, towering waterfalls, and hidden hiking trails.

Covering 1,990 square kilometers, it is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, known for having more endemic species than anywhere else in Tanzania. This makes it a paradise for eco-tourists, botanists, birdwatchers, and hikers.

A Living Laboratory of Life

Udzungwa has been called “The Galápagos of Africa” for its sheer number of endemic plants and animals. Nearly 30% of the plant species found here exist nowhere else on Earth.

  • Over 2,500 plant species
  • 400+ bird species, many endemic
  • Rare primates including the Sanje mangabey, found only here

Wildlife and Birdlife

While there are no lions or elephants to be found here, Udzungwa is teeming with unique and rare species.

  • Primates: Sanje crested mangabey, Udzungwa red colobus, Sykes’ monkey, vervet monkeys.
  • Birds: The Udzungwa forest partridge, African broadbill, and Livingstone’s turaco are some of the many specialties.
  • Reptiles & Amphibians: Many endemic frogs, chameleons, and snakes.
  • Small Mammals: Duikers, bush pigs, genet cats, and elephant shrews.

 

Things to Do in Udzungwa National Park

Udzungwa is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, offering activities you won’t find in most other parks. From scenic waterfall hikes to birdwatching and forest walks, here are some top things to do in Udzungwa Mountains National Park:

  • Hike to Sanje Waterfalls: The park’s iconic 170-meter waterfall offers stunning views over the forest canopy and Kilombero plains.
  • Birdwatching: Bring binoculars—birding here is world-class.
  • Long-Distance Treks: Multi-day hikes into the high forest and plateau regions offer camping and close encounters with untouched nature.
  • Forest Walks: Short nature trails reveal butterflies, orchids, and rainforest magic.

 

How to Get There

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is accessible by both road and air, making it a flexible stop on your southern Tanzania route. Depending on your itinerary, you can choose the option that best fits your travel plans.

  • By Road: 5–6 hours from Dar es Salaam or 2 hours from Mikumi National Park.
  • By Air: Flights to Mikumi or Iringa followed by road transfers.

Where to Stay

While Udzungwa is less developed than other parks, it still offers a range of accommodation options. From eco-camps to budget lodges, here’s where you can stay near the park.

  • Hondo Hondo Udzungwa Forest Camp – Comfortable tents with great wildlife access.
  • Twiga Hotel – Basic accommodation for budget travelers.
  • Public Campsites – For adventurous trekkers and overlanders.

Who Should Visit?

Udzungwa is not your typical wildlife safari destination—it’s more about hiking, forests, and rare species. It’s an ideal choice for travelers who love nature and want to explore something different in Tanzania.

Udzungwa is perfect for:

  • Nature enthusiasts and hikers
  • Photographers and birders
  • Scientists, researchers, and students
  • Couples or solo travelers seeking peace and lush scenery
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