Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Explore Udzungwa National Park – Waterfalls, Hiking & Unique Wildlife
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is part of the Udzungwa Mountains, which belong to a group of very old mountains called the Eastern Arc Mountains. These mountains form a broken chain that runs along the East African coast, stretching from southern Kenya down to southern Tanzania. This chain includes famous mountain ranges such as the Usambara Mountains, Pare Mountains, and Uluguru Mountains. All of these mountains share the same ancient origin and are known for their rich forests, cool climate, and unique wildlife. Because they have existed for millions of years without major changes, they have become home to many rare species of plants and animals. Udzungwa Mountains National Park is one of the most important parts of this mountain system. It protects large areas of untouched rainforest, making it one of the most biodiverse places in Tanzania. The park is home to rare primates like the Iringa red colobus monkey and the Sanje mangabey, as well as many bird species, butterflies, and unique plants that are not found anywhere else in the world. One of the most special things about Udzungwa is that it offers a different safari experience. Unlike other national parks in Tanzania, there are no traditional game drives here. Instead, visitors explore the park on foot through guided walking safaris and hiking trails. These trails take you deep into the forest, across rivers, and up to beautiful waterfalls such as the famous Sanje Waterfalls, which is the second-tallest waterfalls in Tanzania.
Location: Just a 5hours drive from Dar-es-salaam 350 Km (215 miles) and Southwest of Mikumi is 10 Km (about 40 miles). Best time to visit: The dry season is June – October but it is accessible year rou nd although slippery in the wet. Birdlife: There are a large number of birds including endemic species and Francolin. Wildlife: They include Iringa Columbus Monkeys and Sanje Crested Mangabey as well as Leopard, eland and waterbuck and elusive creatures of the forest such as bushbuck and duiker. Access: From Dar-es-salaam located a few Kilometers off Mikumi National Park road on the way to Iringa, it is 350 kms and 65 kms Southwest of Mikumi. Tanzania – Zambia Railway line (TAZARA) Can also reach the Udzungwa National Park. Its five hours drive from Dar es Salaam. To do: From a two- hours hike to the waterfall to camping Safaris, Combine with nearby Mikumi or en-route to Ruaha. Accommodation: Camping inside the park, two modest but comfortable lodges with en-suite rooms with 1 km of the park entrance. |
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The Udzungwa Mountain National Park is a slice of the Udzungwa Arc Mountains in short the Udzungwa is part of a broken chain of mountains called the Eastern Arc Mountains that lie close to the coast of East Africa from southern Kenya to southern Tanzania, the Usambaras, the Pares and the Ulugurus are some of this chain. Udzungwa National Park was formally national forest reserve up to 1992 when became a national Park, it covers an area of 1990 sq.km (770 sq miles) Lying between 300 and 2800 mts above Sea level. The plateau is a natural penthouse with view of grassland and mountain forest stretching over 100Km of Sanjie River waterfall, which plunges at 170 Meters. The major attraction of the park is its bio-diversity and unique rainforest, where many rare plants, not found anywhere else in the world, have been identified, from a tiny Africa no let to 30 meter high trees. Location: Just a 5hours drive from Dar-es-salaam 350 Km (215 miles) and Southwest of Mikumi is 10 Km (about 40 miles). Best time to visit: The dry season is June – October but it is accessible year rou nd although slippery in the wet. Birdlife: There are a large number of birds including endemic species and Francolin. Wildlife: They include Iringa Columbus Monkeys and Sanje Crested Mangabey as well as Leopard, eland and waterbuck and elusive creatures of the forest such as bushbuck and duiker. Access: From Dar-es-salaam located a few Kilometers off Mikumi National Park road on the way to Iringa, it is 350 kms and 65 kms Southwest of Mikumi. Tanzania – Zambia Railway line (TAZARA) Can also reach the Udzungwa National Park. Its five hours drive from Dar es Salaam. To do: From a two- hours hike to the waterfall to camping Safaris, Combine with nearby Mikumi or en-route to Ruaha. Accommodation: Camping inside the park, two modest but comfortable lodges with en-suite rooms with 1 km of the park entrance. |
BEST TIME TO VISIT Udzungwa Mountains National Park
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET TO Udzungwa Mountains National Park
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS TO Udzungwa Mountains National Park
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
Udzungwa Mountains?
In which region is Udzungwa National Park found?
Udzungwa waterfalls – Udzungwa Mountains National Park. The Udzungwa Mountains are located in south-central Tanzania, primarily spanning the Morogoro and Iringa regions. The Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a major part of this range, is situated within the Kilombero and Kilolo districts, with 20% in the Morogoro region and 80% in the Iringa region
What animals are in the Udzungwa National Park?
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