Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a hidden treasure in Southern Tanzania — a mystical, lush haven of rainforest, waterfalls, and rare wildlife. Known as the “Galápagos of Africa,” it’s one of the most biodiverse parks on the continent, making it perfect for travelers who love hiking, birding, and discovering rare species in an unspoiled jungle environment.

Unlike the classic savannah parks of Tanzania, Udzungwa is all about tropical adventure, magical waterfalls, and endemic species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. If you’re looking for a true connection with nature — far from the tourist crowds — Udzungwa is calling your name.

Why Visit Udzungwa Mountains National Park?

  • Lush Rainforests & Towering Mountains

  • Rare Primates, including the endemic Sanje Mangabey

  • Stunning Waterfalls like the 170m Sanje Falls

  • Epic Hiking Trails with Breathtaking Views

  • Home to over 400 bird species and 2,500 plant species

  • No vehicles inside the park — pure walking & nature immersion

 Sanje Waterfalls – The Crown Jewel of Udzungwa

One of the park’s highlights is the Sanje Waterfalls, a breathtaking 170-meter cascade surrounded by tropical rainforest.

Hike to Sanje Falls:

  • Duration: ~4 to 5 hours round trip

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Reward: Swimming at the base, views from the top, and monkeys along the trail

  • Don’t forget your camera — this spot is incredibly photogenic!

Best Time to Visit Udzungwa Mountains

  • June to October (Dry Season) – Ideal for hiking and fewer rain showers

  • November to May (Green Season) – Lush and beautiful, but trails can be slippery

Note: Even in the dry season, brief rains can occur due to the rainforest environment. Bring proper hiking boots and rain jackets!

How to Get to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

By Air:

  • Fly to Dar es Salaam or Iringa

  • Connect with a domestic flight to Mikumi Airstrip, then a drive (~1.5 hours)

By Road:

  • From Dar es Salaam: ~6 to 7 hours drive via Morogoro

  • From Mikumi National Park: ~1.5 hours drive

Where to Stay Near Udzungwa Mountains

While there are no lodges inside the park, there are comfortable lodges and campsites nearby in Mang’ula village.

Recommended Accommodations:

  • Udzungwa Forest Camp (Hondo Hondo) – Eco-friendly, solar-powered, and right on the forest edge

  • Twiga Hotel – A basic but cozy budget option

  • Udzungwa Falls Lodge – Comfortable lodge with great meals and local charm

Activities in Udzungwa Mountains

  • Hiking Trails (easy to challenging):Sanje Falls Trail (4–5 hours), Prince Bernhard’s Waterfall Trail (1.5 hours), Mwanihana Peak (full-day hike for serious trekkers)
  • Birdwatching – Over 400 species including rare forest birds
  • Botanical Tours – Learn about ancient medicinal plants and trees
  • Primate Watching – Spot 6 monkey species, including rare colobus monkeys
  • Cultural Visits – Interact with local Hehe and Pogoro tribes nearby
  • Night Walks – Spot nocturnal animals with a guide

How Many Days Should You Spend in Udzungwa?

We recommend 2 to 3 days for the perfect Udzungwa experience:

  • Day 1: Arrive and relax in camp

  • Day 2: Hike to Sanje Falls + cultural visit

  • Day 3: Birding, forest walk, or a longer hike like Mwanihana Peak

Pair it with nearby parks like Mikumi or Ruaha for a complete Southern Tanzania circuit.

Why Choose Udzungwa Mountains National Park?

This park is perfect for:

  • Hikers and outdoor adventurers

  • Primate and bird enthusiasts

  • Nature photographers

  • Nature-lovers seeking peace and beauty

  • Conservation and biology students

Ready to Explore Udzungwa?

If you’re craving something different than the usual Big Five safari, Udzungwa will leave your heart full. Let us help you plan a custom itinerary that includes this rainforest jewel.

📩 Contact us today for tailored safari packages, local guides, and insider travel tips for Udzungwa!

Most common animals

  • Sanje Crested Mangabey – Found only here in the world
  • Udzungwa Red Colobus Monkey – Another local endemic

  • Elephants – Sometimes seen on lower slopes

  • Buffalo, bushbuck, duikers, and hyraxes

  • Civets and genets at night

  • Hornbills, turacos, palm-nut vultures, and endemic birds like the Udzungwa forest partridge

  • While mammals are present, most of the beauty here lies in the park’s botanical diversity and peaceful trekking atmosphere.

Facts about Udzungwa Mountains National Park

  • Part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, a chain older than the Himalayas
  • Rain falls year-round, feeding waterfalls, streams, and rich biodiversity

  • Over 25% of the species found here are endemic to the region

  • Discover unique reptiles, butterflies, and medicinal plants

  • Home to Africa’s second-largest biodiversity after the Congo Basin