Udzungwa is really beautiful place for hikers.
The major attraction of Udzungwa is bio-diversity and unique rain forest, where most rare plants are not found anywhere else in the world, have been identified, from a tiny African violet to 30 meter high trees.
There are more than 400 bird species, 2500 plant species (25% of which are endemic and 6 primate species. It has the second largest biodiversity of a national park in Africa.
Udzungwa plateau supports Iringa Red Colubus Monkey, Sanje Crested Mangabey Monkey, Buffalo, Yellow monkey, Blue monkey, Velvet monkey, Red Duikers, Honey badgers, Squirrels, Mongoose, Sables and Blue Duiker’s as well rare species of birds.
Best to know in udzungwa National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is the largest and most bio-diverse of a chain of a dozen large forest-swathed mountains that rise majestically from the flat coastal area of eastern Tanzania.
Udzungwa has also been dubbed the African Galapagos for its collection of endemic plants and animals.
Beautiful forest and waterfalls called Sanje Waterfalls.
A well known paradise for hikers.
Over 400 species of birds, some of which are endemic to Udzungwa only.
Iringa Red colobus and Sanje Crested Mangabey both occur nowhere else in the world.
Continuous Scientific exploration still going on.
Very dense rain forest
One of the world ten forests for Bird conservation in Africa.
Covers an area of about 1,990 sq km (770 sq miles).
Located about five hours (350 km/215 miles) from Dar es Salaam; 65 kms (40 miles) southwest of Mikumi
Dry Season in Udzungwa:
June – Mid November: Best time for hiking but be prepared for rain any time
December – February: Humid & Hot: Good time hiking.
Rainy Season in Udzungwa:
Mid November – Mid December: Short Rain : Slippery for hiking
April – May: Heavy rain: Slippery for hiking.
Getting to Udzungwa:
Road: 6 hours from Dar es salaam / 1 hr drive from Mikumi
Suggested Itineraries for Udzungwa : Minimum 3 Days / 2 Night Safari : Udzungwa can be combined with Ruaha, Mikumi, Saadani & Selous :Check for Itineraries
Hiking safaris, bird watching safari, camping safari are the major activities, an excellent network in the forest trial through beautiful scenery, trials are maintained regularly. Also can visit local villages around and local Sugarcane farmers.
The most popular half day ramble to Sanje Water fall, which pledges 170 m through a misty spray in the forested below valley.