Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Udzungwa Mountains – Tanzania’s Rainforest & Hiking Treasure

Udzungwa Mountains National Park, located in south-central Tanzania, is one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforest reserves and the country’s top hiking destination. Part of the ancient Eastern Arc Mountains, it is often called the “Galápagos of Africa” due to its high number of endemic species. With no roads inside the park, exploration is done entirely on foot through lush montane forests, crystal-clear streams, and dramatic waterfalls including the spectacular Sanje Falls.

This hidden gem offers a completely different safari experience — focused on trekking, rare primates, birdlife, and untouched nature.

Wildlife and Biodiversity at Udzungwa

Udzungwa is a primate paradise and biodiversity hotspot:

• Endemic Primates: Sanje Crested Mangabey, Iringa Red Colobus, Udzungwa Red Colobus (found nowhere else)
• Other Monkeys: Sykes’, vervet, black-and-white colobus
• Birdlife: Over 400 species including rare endemics like Udzungwa forest partridge and rufous-winged sunbird
• Landscape: Montane rainforest, bamboo zones, waterfalls, and mountain peaks

What to Do at Udzungwa Mountains

The park offers world-class hiking experiences:

• Sanje Waterfalls Trek: Full-day hike to three-tiered falls with swimming at the top (170m drop)
• Prince Bernhard Waterfall Trail: Easy 2–3 hour walk to a beautiful cascade
• Mwanihana Peak Trek: 3–4 day challenging climb to the second-highest peak
• Birdwatching & Primate Tracking: Guided walks to spot rare and endemic species
• Camping in the Rainforest: Overnight inside the park near waterfalls

Best Time to Visit Udzungwa Mountains

Udzungwa can be visited year-round, but:

• June to October (Dry Season): Best for hiking — cooler, drier trails, clear views
• December to February: Also excellent, warm and mostly dry
• Avoid March to May: Heavy rains make trails slippery and challenging

The dry season is ideal for all major hiking routes.

Unique Features of Udzungwa Mountains

• 100% Foot-Only Exploration: No vehicles allowed — pure hiking experience
• Endemic-Rich Rainforest: One of the oldest forests on Earth
• Sanje Waterfalls: Among the highest in East Africa
• Eastern Arc Biodiversity Hotspot: More endemic species per square kilometer than almost anywhere in Africa
• Perfect Add-On: Easily combined with Mikumi, Ruaha, or Selous safaris

Accessing Udzungwa Mountains

Easy access from multiple locations:

• By Road: 5–6 hours from Dar es Salaam, 4 hours from Mikumi or Iringa
• By Train: TAZARA railway stops at Mang’ula (park entrance)
• By Air + Drive: Fly to Iringa or Morogoro, then transfer

Recommended Udzungwa Tour Packages

We offer flexible hiking-focused packages:

• 1 Day Udzungwa Hiking Trip: Sanje Waterfalls trek from Mikumi or Morogoro
• 2 Days Udzungwa & Waterfalls: Full immersion with overnight camping option
• 3 Days Udzungwa & Mikumi Combo: Rainforest hiking + classic safari
• 7 Days Southern Tanzania Explorer: Udzungwa + Ruaha + Mikumi

All packages include transport, guides, park fees, meals, and accommodation.

Take Away!

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is Tanzania’s ultimate hiking and rainforest destination — a place where rare primates swing overhead, waterfalls thunder down ancient cliffs, and every trail leads to discovery. Perfect for nature lovers seeking an active, off-the-beaten-path adventure.