- +255 699 492 242
- info@tanzarates.com
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Overview
Udzungwa Mountains National Park, located in south-central Tanzania, is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its lush tropical rainforests, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Covering approximately 1,990 square kilometers, the park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, an ancient mountain range often referred to as the “Galápagos of Africa” due to its high levels of endemism. It boasts a variety of ecosystems, from lowland forests to montane rainforests, grasslands, and highland plateaus.
The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including several endemic species such as the Udzungwa red colobus monkey and the Sanje mangabey. Other mammals like elephants, leopards, bushbucks, and duikers can also be found, alongside over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Additionally, Udzungwa features numerous waterfalls, with the spectacular 170-meter-high Sanje Waterfalls being a major attraction for visitors.
Unlike many other Tanzanian national parks, Udzungwa Mountains National Park does not allow game drives, emphasizing hiking and trekking experiences instead. There are several trails, ranging from short walks to challenging multi-day hikes, offering visitors opportunities to explore the pristine wilderness. The park plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, protecting rare plant and animal species while providing a unique ecotourism destination in East Africa.
Plan your safari
Why Visit the park?
Visiting Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience, especially for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and conservation enthusiasts. Here are some compelling reasons to visit:
1. Incredible Biodiversity
Udzungwa is home to rare and endemic species, including the Udzungwa red colobus monkey and the Sanje mangabey, found nowhere else in the world. With over 400 bird species and a vast range of flora, it is a paradise for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers.
2. Scenic Hiking and Trekking
Unlike many other Tanzanian parks that focus on safaris, Udzungwa offers an immersive trekking experience. There are multiple trails, from short nature walks to challenging multi-day hikes, taking visitors through lush rainforests, ridges, and waterfalls.
3. Sanje Waterfalls
One of the most breathtaking highlights is the Sanje Waterfalls, plunging 170 meters down a rocky cliff into a natural pool. Visitors can swim, relax, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest and valleys.
4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Udzungwa is less crowded than Tanzania’s famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, offering a peaceful and unspoiled natural environment. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the typical tourist routes and explore a hidden gem.
5. Rich Cultural Experience
Visitors can engage with local communities and learn about the Hehe and Wahehe tribes, who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. This adds a cultural dimension to the adventure.
6. Conservation and Ecotourism
As part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, Udzungwa plays a vital role in conservation, protecting unique ecosystems and endangered species. A visit contributes to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.
7. Accessibility from Major Cities
Located about 6-7 hours by road from Dar es Salaam, Udzungwa is easily accessible and can be combined with visits to nearby parks like Mikumi National Park and Ruaha National Park for a diverse safari experience.
With its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and adventure-filled trekking routes, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic and untouched wilderness experience.
Things to do
Visiting Sanje Waterfalls
Photography
Camping
Hiking and trekking
Cultural Visits
Birdwatching
How to get there?
Getting to Udzungwa Mountains National Park can be done by road, train, or air, depending on your starting location.
By Road
The park is approximately 350 km from Dar es Salaam, and the journey takes about six to seven hours by car. Travelers can drive or take a bus to Mikumi or Mang’ula, the closest town to the park entrance. The road from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi is paved and in good condition, but the final stretch from Mikumi to Udzungwa is a dirt road, which may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle, especially during the rainy season. If traveling from Iringa, the journey takes about four to five hours by road.
By Bus
Public buses operate daily from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi or Ifakara. From Mikumi, visitors can take a local taxi or a motorcycle taxi (boda-boda) to the park entrance in Mang’ula. Buses to Ifakara also pass near the park, and passengers can disembark at Mang’ula.
By Train
The Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA) runs from Dar es Salaam to Mang’ula, providing an alternative scenic route. Although the train journey is an adventurous option, schedules may vary, and travelers should confirm availability in advance.
By Air
The nearest airstrip is in Mikumi, but flights are limited. Most visitors fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam and then continue their journey by road or train.
Upon arrival at Mang’ula, the main entrance to Udzungwa Mountains National Park is just a short distance away and can be reached by local transport or taxi.
Embark on Your Dream Safari
Ready to experience the breathtaking wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania? Let’s craft your perfect African adventure—tailored just for you!
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Udzungwa Mountains National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this period, the trails are drier and easier to navigate, wildlife is more active, and the chances of spotting birds and primates are higher.
The wet season from November to May brings lush green landscapes, vibrant waterfalls, and excellent birdwatching opportunities, as many migratory birds arrive. However, trails can be slippery and more challenging for hiking.
For the best hiking conditions and wildlife viewing, June to October is ideal. If you enjoy lush scenery and birdwatching, November to May is also a good option.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Experience Unforgettable Beauty of Africa
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is in south-central Tanzania, about 350 km from Dar es Salaam, near the town of Mang’ula in the Morogoro region.
You can reach the park by road (about 6-7 hours from Dar es Salaam), by train via the TAZARA railway to Mang’ula, or by bus to Mikumi or Ifakara, followed by local transport to the park entrance.
The best time to visit is June to October during the dry season for the best hiking conditions. The wet season (November to May) is ideal for birdwatching and lush landscapes but can make trails slippery.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, trekking, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, camping, photography, and visiting waterfalls, including the famous Sanje Waterfalls.
No, Udzungwa is a trekking and hiking park. Unlike other Tanzanian parks, it does not offer game drives, but it provides excellent opportunities to see wildlife on foot.
The park is home to rare primates such as the Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje mangabey, as well as elephants, duikers, bushbucks, leopards, and over 400 species of birds.
Hiking trails vary in difficulty, from short walks to challenging multi-day treks. The Sanje Waterfalls Trail (4-5 hours round trip) is one of the most popular and moderately challenging routes.
There are no lodges inside the park, but visitors can camp in designated areas. Lodges and guesthouses are available in nearby Mang’ula and Mikumi.
Yes, all hikes in Udzungwa require a licensed guide, which can be arranged at the park entrance.
Visitors should bring hiking boots, light clothing, rain gear (especially in the wet season), insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and enough drinking water.
Serengeti National Park
ArushaNational Park
Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area