Exploring the hidden gems of Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, which cover about 10,000 sq.km and are almost entirely in Tanzania. Udzungwa Mountains National Park is located in Iringa and Morogoro regions, south-central Tanzania. The Park covers a land area of 1,990 sq.km and lies within Kilolo and Kilombero Districts in Iringa and Morogoro Regions respectively. The park also lies in Selous Game Reserve is to the east and Mikumi National Park to the northeast and borders The Great Ruaha River in the north while the Ruipa and Msosa Rivers in the west
Udzungwa Mountains National Park was gazetted in 1992 from the former Forest Reserves of Mwanihana, Iwonde, Nyanganje and parts of Matundu and the West Kilombero Forest Reserves. The park was specifically created to safeguard the mountains’ water catchment and biological values.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park has different large animal species such as; elephant, buffalo, hippopotamus and leopard. The Park is also home to endangered and endemic species, such as the Iringa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey; the Udzungwa partridge and the Rufous-winged sunbird.
The discovery of new flora and fauna continues in Udzungwa Mountains, which is the only place in Tanzania where forest cover is intact from the lowland acacia and miombo forest of the Great Ruaha Valley to high montane forests and grasslands to more than 2,500m above sea level. The park has several major water catchment areas that feed the surrounding river systems, which include the Great Ruaha River. The rivers are also contributed in production hydroelectric power at Kidatu and Kihansi stations.
Climate
The Udzungwa Mountains receives short rains from October to November and heavy rains from mid March to May. “Dry season (June – September) short rains starts from October to November and thoughtful wet season starts from (November to April) when wild flowers are flourishing and plentiful of butterflies. For bird watchers December to February is their best time as most migratory birds are nesting in the park and easily spotted.”. The maximum temperature is 310 C in October, with the minimum temperature of 21 0 C in July
What to see in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Primates
Udzungwa is a primate park and currently 11 species has been identified. Among of them two species found nowhere else in the world, the Sanje Crested Mangabey and Iringa Red Colobus Monkey. Other primates that you may also spot here includes Matunda Galago, Angola colobus monkeys, blue and vervet monkeys, and yellow baboons among others
Birds
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is home to over 400 species of birds among the notable species include Udzungwa forest partridge, Rufous winged sunbird, Black-throated Wattle-eye, Short-tailed Batis, Slate-colored Boubou, Zanzibar Boubou, Gray-headed Bush shrike, Square-tailed Drongo, African Paradise-Flycatcher, African Crested Flycatcher, Pied Crow, White-necked Raven, Crowned Hornbill, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Giant Kingfisher, Brown-hooded Kingfisher and more
Animals
The wildlife spotted in the park includes elephants, leopards, bush bucks, duikers, palm civets, Miombo genets, elephant shrews and hyenas. In addition to the wild animals the park also harbours some species of primates. Among the primates Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested Mangabey are the unique ones. the park is also home to several reptiles and amphibians found in the area, including the unique Udzungwa lizards (Cnemaspis udzungwae) and (Phrynobatrachus udzungwensis), as well as some native chameleons.
Butterflies
Udzungwa is a well for over 250 species of butterflies including the endemic Charaxes Lucyae Mwanihanae, Papilio hornimanii Mwanihanae and Baliochilla Mwanihanae have been identified making Udzungwa an ideal place for those who wish to see this paradise of butterfly.
Waterfalls
There is a number of waterfalls including the famous Sanje waterfall which plunges 170 metres through a misty spray into the forested valley below. This waterfall is the highest waterfalls in the national parks system in Tanzania. Other waterfalls include; Prince Bernhard, Njokamoni, Mwaya, Sonjo and Msolwa that spice your visit.
cultural and historical sites
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is home to more cultural and historical sites than any other park in Tanzania. Inside the park, you can find many places that reflect the history of various tribes from southern Tanzania. These tribes lived in the Udzungwa Mountains long before the park was established, and today, they reside in nearby settlements. These communities showcase the ongoing movement of people in the region.
Some highlights you shouldn’t miss include the ancient Mwanaluvele salt caves on the park’s western side, along with the Magombelema caves, which locals used as hideouts during the colonial wars. On the eastern side of the park, you’ll find Bokela and Mwanihana Mountain, which hold special meaning for villagers who come here to pray during tough times like famine, drought, and sickness. Similarly, Chavemba and Nyumbanitu, located in the west, serve as important ritual sites. These locations are also great for tourism and trekking. The forest surrounding these areas is spiritually significant to local communities, as it is believed to be home to various deities.
Tourism activities to do Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Hiking to the waterfalls and forest
Explore the stunning landscapes of Udzungwa Mountains National Park by hiking to its beautiful waterfalls and lush forests. There are various trails catering to different skill levels, allowing you to enjoy the rich biodiversity and breathtaking views as you trek through this natural paradise. Hiking in the forest while enjoying watching most primates, waterfalls, birds, reptiles and amphibians makes your day. Hiking is mostly done throughout the year but more ideal during dry season.
Mountain climbing
For adventure seekers, mountain climbing in Udzungwa Mountains is a must-try. The challenging routes offer panoramic vistas of the park and surrounding areas. The park offers a chance of summiting the highest peaks of Luhomero and Mwanihana peaks while enjoying the scenic view of the lower slopes together with the farms on the Kilombero valley.
Bicycle tours
Bicycle touring involves taking trips on a bike for fun, adventure, or freedom instead of just for exercise, sports, or commuting. To make these tours enjoyable, it’s beneficial to work with the local tourism office. These trips can be as short as a day or can stretch over several days. Cycling tourism focuses on leisurely rides where the bike is not only a way to get around but also a key part of the travel experience. The rides can vary from easy, scenic routes that allow for gentle pedaling to more challenging rides aimed at improving fitness. It’s viewed as a type of soft adventure or recreational tourism.
During these tours, cyclists can visit local markets, explore the Tanzania and Zambia Railway line, and see sugarcane, rice, and rubber plantations, as well as local villages. They can also enjoy local dishes made from ingredients sourced from the nearby communities.
Tours can be set up to start from the main entrance of the park, leading to villages about 30 kilometers away. Experienced guides help cycling tourists with important skills like first aid and bike repairs, as well as provide advice on routes and distances. These guides also share insights about the local nature and the culture of communities living near the stunning Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
Bird Watching
Udzungwa Mountains is a birdwatcher’s dream, home to numerous unique and colorful bird species including migratory and non migratory species; with two being endemic to the park. This can be done along designated trails and roads where most bird species (native and migratory) are seen depending on seasonal variations, availability of food and nesting materials. While on a bird watching tour, you will have the chance to sight birds such as Udzungwa forest partridge, Rufous winged sunbird, Tanzania Seedeater, Mountain Wagtail, Northern Gray-headed Sparrow, Eastern Paradise-Whydah, Yellow-bellied Waxbill, Yellow Bishop, Zanzibar Red Bishop, Usambara Weaver, Rufous-winged Sunbird, Loveridge’s Sunbird, Moreau’s Sunbird, Banded Sunbird and Iringa Akalat among others.
Visitor Information Centre
Make the Visitor Information Centre your first stop. Here, you can find helpful tips, maps, and guidance on the best trails and activities in the park. The friendly staff can share insights into the wildlife and plants you might encounter, ensuring you have a memorable visit.
How to get to Udzungwa Mountains National Park
The park can be accessed by road network from Dar es salaam (380km) or from Arusha, Kilimanjaro and Mbeya. This stunning park can also be reached by using a TAZARA railway from Dar Es Salaam to Zambia that passes through local town of Mang’ula takes you close to the park’s gate. Alternatively, you can use air transport mean. there various charted flights through nearby two airstrips of Msolwa and Kilombero
Where to stay while Exploring the hidden gems of Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Lodge options to stay in during a visit in Udzungwa Mountains National Park range from Budget, mid-range to luxury options. You will choose what to stay in depending on your interests and budget. Lodge options in Udzungwa Mountains National Park include Udzungwa Forested Tented Camp, Udzungwa Falls Lodge, Twiga Hotel, Udzungwa Mountain View Camp, and Angalia Tented Camp among others
