Exploring the hidden beauty of Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve: Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve (UNFR) covers 24,115.09 hackers and was gazetted in 2008. Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve comprises the former Uluguru North, Uluguru South, Bunduki I and II forest reserves, and Bunduki ‘gap’ corridor. The reserve extends along a north-south ridge ranging in altitude from 600 meters – 2,638 meters (Kimhandu Peak). The Uluguru Mountains are the wettest part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, receiving up to 4,000 mm of rainfall per annum. On the main Uluguru ridge, over 50 villages touch the forest boundary of Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve and over 151,000 people live within the mountain area, often at increasing densities at higher altitudes.
Biodiversity
The Uluguru Mountains forest reserve hosts over 44 of the 136 vertebrate species endemics to the Eastern Arc Mountains, making it the second richest biodiversity of Eastern Arc Mountain endemic vertebrates, only found in the Udzungwa Mountains. Surprisingly 14 endemic vertebrate species are restricted to the Uluguru Mountains.
The reserve is home to several species of primates, including the black and white colobus monkey, the Sykes monkey, the blue monkey, and the red-tailed monkey. Visitors might also spot baboons and vervet monkeys. The reserve is also home to mammal species such as bush babies, tree hyrax, and giant rats. The reserve is home to several species of reptiles, including chameleons, snakes, and lizards. More so is home to a wide variety of insects, including many species of butterflies, beetles, and moths.
Bird species
Uluguru Mountains forest reserve is home to over 400 species of birds recorded. Some of the birds spotted in the reserve include African Black Duck, Yellow-billed Duck, Helmeted Guineafowl, Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove, Speckled Pigeon, Livingstone’s Turaco, Pied Cuckoo, Red-chested Cuckoo, Montane Nightjar, Scarce Swift, African Woolly-necked Stork, Shoebill, Hamerkop, Black-headed Heron, Mountain Buzzard, Palm-nut Vulture, African Hawk-Eagle, African Wood-Owl, Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Speckled Mousebird, Gray-headed Kingfisher and Striped Kingfisher among others.
Vegetation
The Uluguru Mountains a home to 211 of the 554 plant taxa endemic to the Eastern Arc Mountains, 68 of which are recorded only in Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve. These amazing plants are only found in the Udzungwa Mountains which are the most important mountain blocks with respect to Eastern Arc Mountain endemic plants. Among 13 Eastern Arc endemic species of Impatiens found within Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve, 8 are known only from this single reserve. There are also 3 endemic species of African violet – Saintpaulia.
The vegetation of the Uluguru main ridge and the outlying blocks is extremely variable. It ranges from drier lowland Miombo woodlands to lowland coastal forests, transitional rainforests, and to sub-montane, montane, and upper montane forest types. It also includes an area of Afromontane grasslands on the Lukwangule plateau. All these habitats are rich in endemic species and are all of high conservation priority
Tourist activities to do at Uluguru Mountains forest reserve
Hiking and trekking
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the Uluguru Mountains forest reserve is by going for a hike or trek. There are several well-marked trails that cater to hikers of all levels, from beginners to experienced trekkers. The trails lead through dense forest, cross streams, and up to the mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. During your hiking and trekking tours, you will have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife along the way such as the black and white colobus monkey, the Sykes monkey, the blue monkey, the red-tailed monkey, tree hyrax, chameleons, snakes, and lizards as well as of butterflies, beetles, and different bird species.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching in Uluguru Mountain Forest Reserve is one of the best activities offered to visitors while on a Tanzania safari adventure in the reserve. The reserve is home to over 400 bird species recorded in the area, including several endemic species, it is a paradise for bird watchers. While on your birding tours in the reserve, you will have the opportunity to spot birds such as African Black Duck, Yellow-billed Duck, Helmeted Guineafowl, Emerald-spotted Wood-Dove, Speckled Pigeon, Livingstone’s Turaco, Pied Cuckoo, Red-chested Cuckoo, Montane Nightjar, Scarce Swift, African Woolly-necked Stork, Shoebill, Hamerkop, Black-headed Heron, Mountain Buzzard, and Palm-nut Vulture among others
Culture visits
For those interested in learning more about the local culture and traditions, a visit to the nearby villages around Uluguru Mountain Forest Reserve is a must. During your visit, you will have the chance to witness the traditional way of life of the local tribes and interact with the friendly villagers. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a number of cultural activities such as dancing, drumming, and traditional ceremonies. You can also visit local markets to shop for handcrafted souvenirs and taste delicious local cuisine.
Camping and picnicking
For a truly immersive experience in nature, consider camping in Uluguru Mountain Forest Reserve. The reserve has a variety of well-designed campsites with basic facilities, where you can set up a tent and spend the night under the stars. Alternatively, you can pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying a meal amidst the scenic beauty of the forest. Picnicking in Uluguru Mountain Forest Reserve is a great way to relax, unwind, and appreciate the tranquillity of nature.
Best time to visit Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve
The best time to visit Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, wildlife is more easily spotted as animals congregate around the water sources, and the weather is pleasant for hiking and exploration. The lush vegetation and blooming flora during this season enhance the natural beauty of the reserve, making for an ideal experience.
Getting to Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve
Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve can be accessed by road from Morogoro town in four routes, first route driving through Morogoro to Kibaoni-Bunduki-Vinile; second from Morogoro to Morningside-Bondwa. Thirdly from Morogoro to Kinole and finally from Morogoro to Kibaoni -Nyandira via Tchenzema to Lukwangule.
Accommodations at Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve
Accommodations at Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve include several hotels located mainly in Morogoro town, which is near the Uluguru Mountains. Within the mountains, visitors can find a guesthouse in Kinole on the eastern side and another in Nyandira on the southwest. Additionally, there are campsites available in both the east and the west part of the reserve. Visitors can trek up to the Lupanga or Bondwe peaks above Morogoro while a smaller number of tourists also climb to the Lukwangule plateau above Tchenzema.
