Established in 1992, Udzungwa Mountains National Park spans an area of 1,990 square kilometers. Geographically, 20% of this vast park lies in the Morogoro region, while the remaining 80% stretches into the southern highland region of Iringa. The name “Udzungwa” is derived from “Wadsungwa,” a reference to one of the native sub-tribes of the Hehe people who historically inhabited the mountain slopes.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and is home to one of East Africa’s most extensive forests. This diverse habitat includes tropical rainforests, mountain forests, Miombo woodlands, grasslands, and steppe. The park’s unique appeal lies in its biologically rich forest, which houses plant species found nowhere else on earth, from tiny African violets to towering 30-meter trees. The park’s stunning scenery, with its grasslands, rivers, waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna, make it a treasure trove of natural beauty.
Wildlife and Flora
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see elephants, leopards, bushbucks, duikers, palm civets, Miombo genets, elephant shrews, and hyenas. The park is also home to several primate species, including the unique Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey.
Bird enthusiasts will be delighted with over 400 species of birds found in the park. Some common sightings include crowned eagles, Rüppell’s vultures, woodland kingfishers, silvery-cheeked hornbills, marabous, malachite kingfishers, and trumpeter hornbills.
Activities
- Bird Watching: With over 400 species, the park is a bird-watcher’s paradise.
- Walking/Hiking: Explore the diverse habitats on foot.
- Waterfalls: Discover stunning waterfalls hidden within the park.
- Picnicking: Enjoy a meal amidst the park’s natural beauty.
- Forest Walks: Take a walk into the dense forests and uncover unique plant species.
Wildlife Highlights
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including:
- Mammals: Elephants, leopards, bushbucks, duikers, palm civets, Miombo genets, elephant shrews, hyenas, Iringa red colobus, and Sanje crested mangabey.
- Birds: Crowned eagles, Rüppell’s vultures, woodland kingfishers, silvery-cheeked hornbills, marabous, malachite kingfishers, and trumpeter hornbills.
Best Time to Visit
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is accessible year-round. However, the dry season (June to September) and the wet season (November to March) offer unique experiences. The wet season is ideal for viewing wildflowers and butterflies, while December to February is perfect for bird watchers as migratory birds nest in the park.
Getting There
- By Road: The park is accessible via a road network from Dar es Salaam (380 km), Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Mbeya.
- By Air: There are two airstrips, Msolwa and Kilombero, which tourists can use before connecting via hired vehicles to the park’s main gate.
