Region: Morogoro and Iringa
Access: By road
Attractions: Waterfalls, monkeys, nature
Activities: Hiking, birdwatching, camping, swimming
Accommodation: Available nearby
Best time to visit: All year round
Useful link: Udzungwa Mountains National Park - TANAPA
Part of the Eastern Arc Mountains and one of the largest and most biodiverse areas of tropical forests in Africa
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a stunning example of Africa’s incredible natural beauty. It is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains and is one of the largest and most biodiverse areas of tropical forests in Africa. Udzungwa is a place of great ecological importance and is home to numerous species of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on earth, including the endemic Sanje mangabey and the Iringa red colobus monkey.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park was officially opened by HRH Prince Bernhard of The Netherlands on 21st October 1992. The park covers an area of approximately 1,990 square kilometers and was created to protect the unique and fragile ecosystems of the Eastern Arc Mountains and to provide a safe haven for the numerous endemic species that live there. The park was also established to provide a recreational area for the people of Tanzania and to promote sustainable tourism in the region.
The park is bordered by the Uluguru Mountains to the north and the Rubeho Mountains to the south and is characterized by its lush green forests, rolling hills, and steep valleys, which provide a habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park’s highest peak, Sanje Mountain, rises to 2,576m above sea level and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
This national park is truly a special place that should be on the bucket list of anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. Whether you are a hiker, birdwatcher, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the natural world, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe of the wonders of our planet
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a stunning example of Africa’s incredible natural beauty. It is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains and is one of the largest and most biodiverse areas of tropical forests in Africa. Udzungwa is a place of great ecological importance and is home to numerous species of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on earth, including the endemic Sanje mangabey and the Iringa red colobus monkey.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park was officially opened by HRH Prince Bernhard of The Netherlands on 21st October 1992. The park covers an area of approximately 1,990 square kilometers and was created to protect the unique and fragile ecosystems of the Eastern Arc Mountains and to provide a safe haven for the numerous endemic species that live there. The park was also established to provide a recreational area for the people
of Tanzania and to promote sustainable tourism in the region.
The park is bordered by the Uluguru Mountains to the north and the Rubeho Mountains to the south and is characterized by its lush green forests, rolling hills, and steep valleys, which provide a habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park’s highest peak, Sanje Mountain, rises to 2,576m above sea level and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
This national park is truly a special place that should be on the bucket list of anyone who loves nature and the outdoors. Whether you are a hiker, birdwatcher, or simply someone who enjoys the beauty of the natural world, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe of the wonders of our planet
Udzungwa Mountains National Park was officially opened by HRH Prince Bernhard of The Netherlands on 21st October 1992
Interesting facts about Udzungwa Mountains National Park
- The word “Udzungwa” is derived from the word “Wadsungwa” from the Hehe tribe who used to live on the lower slopes of the mountain
- The park’s highest peak, Sanje, which plunges 170 metres, is the highest waterfall in Tanzania National Parks
- Udzungwa Mountains National Park is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, which are considered one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots
- The park is home to several species of primates that are found nowhere else on earth, including the endemic Sanje mangabey and the Iringa red colobus monkey
Getting to Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa National Park is located about 350km from Dar es Salaam. The journey takes about 5-6 hours drive, passing through another National Park of Mikumi. It is good to note that the daytime speed limit in national parks in Tanzania is 70kph, and with the Mikumi National Park spanning across 50km of road, driving through it should take your time. As you are passing through Mikumi you’ll be blessed with the beautiful scenery of animals of every family. A few kilometres after finishing the park you’ll need to take your left as you are heading to Ifakara/Kilombero. Alternatively, you may use the Iringa gate around Ruaha area. The road is mostly tarmac, with some diversions to pave way for ongoing construction. The old sections of the road are a bit narrow so it’s good to take precautions, especially near the corners.
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