Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a protected area in Tanzania, part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. Unlike other Tanzanian parks, it’s primarily a forest national park focused on hiking, trekking, and exploring its unique biodiversity, especially its endemic primates and birds, rather than traditional game drives.

The climate is generally tropical and humid, especially in the lower rainforests. Temperatures are cooler at higher altitudes. The park experiences a wet season from November to May (with long rains March-May) and a drier season from June to October.

Udzungwa is most famous for its primates, birds, and forest-dwelling animals, rather than the large savanna mammals. You can expect to see:

• Endemic Primates: Iringa red colobus monkey and Sanje mangabey.

• Other Primates: Yellow baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, Angolan colobus monkeys.

• Forest Antelopes: Duikers (red, blue, common).

• Small mammals: Galagos, civets, genets (mostly nocturnal).

• Large mammals (rarely seen): Elephants, buffalo, leopards, and sable antelope do exist in the less-visited western parts, but sightings are extremely rare.

Absolutely! Udzungwa is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 400 recorded bird species, many of which are rare, endemic, or near-endemic. This includes the highly sought-after Udzungwa Partridge and various forest specialists.

Wildlife viewing for primates and birds is generally good year-round. However, the dry season (June to October) offers easier hiking conditions, as trails are less muddy. The wet season (especially Nov-Dec) can be great for bird migration but trails can be slippery.

Unlike traditional game drives, activities in Udzungwa focus on foot-based exploration:

• Hiking/Trekking: The primary activity, with various trails leading to waterfalls and viewpoints.

• Waterfall Visits: Especially Sanje Falls.

• Primate Tracking: Focusing on finding the endemic monkey species.

• Birdwatching: Guided bird walks.

• Cultural Visits: Can be arranged outside the park.

The most popular and accessible hike is the Sanje Falls Trail. It’s a relatively easy to moderate hike that takes you through the forest to three different waterfalls, with the highlight being the magnificent Sanje Falls, which offers a plunge pool for swimming.

Light, breathable, quick-drying clothing (long pants and sleeves are good for protection from insects and scratches), comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes (waterproof if possible, especially in wet season), a hat, and a rain jacket.

Yes, all hikes in Udzungwa Mountains National Park must be accompanied by an official park guide. This is for your safety, for wildlife spotting, and to ensure responsible tourism practices.

Staying near Udzungwa offers a more rustic and local experience compared to luxury safari camps. It’s about being close to nature and having easy access to the park’s hiking trails. Expect a tranquil atmosphere, local hospitality, and basic but comfortable facilities.

Accommodation options are more limited than in safari parks. They include basic campsites within the park, and a few lodges and guesthouses just outside the park gate, ranging from simple to mid-range comfort.