Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Home to rare monkeys, vibrant plants, and hundreds of bird species
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Present within Tanzania’s Eastern Arc range, Udzungwa Mountains National Park spans almost 1,990 square kilometres of pristine wilderness. Established in 1992, it’s a sanctuary for numerous unique species and one of the world’s most biodiverse forests. This park is a critical conservation area recognized for its endemic wildlife and vibrant ecosystems.
Animals thrive here, from the elusive Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey monkeys to giants like elephants and buffalos. Bird watchers will delight in the rich avian population, with over 400 species observed, including some that are unique to these mountains. The varied landscapes, from dense forests to sparkling waterfalls, support this rich array of life.
Udzungwa invites explorers of all ages with its accessible hiking trails leading to breathtaking destinations like the 170-meter-high Sanje Waterfall. Visitors can camp under the stars, enjoying the nocturnal sounds of the forest, or join guided tours to learn about the park’s wildlife and flora. With activities ranging from game viewing on foot to cultural experiences, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a gateway to adventure in Tanzania’s wild.
Best Time to Visit
The Best Time to Visit Udzungwa Mountains National Park depends significantly on its distinct dry and wet seasons. To immerse fully in its natural splendour, understanding these periods is key:
- Dry Season (June to October) This is ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, as cooler temperatures and less rainfall make the park’s trails more navigable.
- Wet Season (March to May and November to February)
This period features heavier rains, making the trails challenging but rewarding for those who enjoy lush, vibrant landscapes.
Visiting Udzungwa offers diverse experiences throughout the year, from dry-season hikes to wet-season butterfly-watching. Choose your travel time based on the adventure you seek!
How to Get to Udzungwa National Park
Getting to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park is easy and offers several travel options:
- By Road The most popular and direct route is by road from Dar es Salaam, taking approximately 5 hours. Drive west on Morogoro Road towards Mikumi, then through Kilombero, crossing the Ruaha River to reach Sanje Village.
- By Air For those preferring a quicker journey, charter flights are available daily from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar to airstrips near the park. Scheduled flights also connect to nearby Mikumi National Park, from where it’s a short drive to Udzungwa.
- By Train Travellers who love adventure can take the train from Dar es Salaam heading towards Zambia, which stops in Mang’ula, the village nearest to the park. This method offers a scenic but longer journey.
Discover the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Plan your Tanzania Safari Trip now!
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