How to get into Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is located in the southern part of Tanzania in Kilolo District of Iringa Region and Kilombero District of Morogoro Region. The park is mostly located in Kilolo District and approximately 350 kilometers southwest of Der-es-Salaam. It is one of the most remote and least visited national parks in Tanzania, but its unique biodiversity and stunning natural beauty make it a fascinating destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The national park covers an area of approximately 1,990 square kilometers and was gazetted in 1992 as a result of the conservation efforts by the Tanzanian government and international organizations, with the aim of protecting the unique flora and fauna of the Udzungwa Mountains. The habitats contained within the national park include tropical rainforest, montane forest, miombo woodland, grassland and steppe. There is a vertical height range of 250-2,576 meters (the peak of Lohomero) which incorporates the Udzungwa Mountains part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. The park is home to over 400 species of birds including the hornbills and turacos as well as several species of primates such as Sanje mangabey, kipunji, udzungwa red colobus, Angola colobus, skyes’s monkey, yellow baboon and vervet monkeys. The park is home to a variety such as antelopes, elephants, udzungwa red duiker, buffalo, hippopotami, leopard and 2,500 plant species, making it the second largest biodiversity of national parks in Africa
How to get into Udzungwa Mountains National Park
For visitors planning to travel to Udzungwa Mountains National Park can choose from a variety of transport options such as bus, trail, private tours, or air transport means in order to access the park.
Bus: From Der as Salaam, take an experienced bus to Mikumi or Iringa, both of which are near the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Buses like the Dar Express and Kilimanjaro Express operate regularly and provide comfortable seating. Ensure to book a ticket in advance for a smoother journey. Upon arrival in either town, you can hire a taxi or local dala-dala (shared minibus) to reach the park’s entrance. This option is economical but requires approximately 6-8 hours of travel, allowing you to experience local culture along the way.
By car rental: Renting a car in Der as Salaam offers flexibility for traveling to Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Major rental agencies are available, and you choose a vehicle suited for rough terrains. The drive typically takes about 5 -6 hours, following the A7 highway towards Mikumi and winding through the scenic landscape. Ensure you have a reliable GPS or maps for guidance. Renting a car allows you to stop at interesting en-routes, offering a chance to explore the beauty of Tanzania beyond the park itself, while also training for off-road driving.
Private tours: Opt for a private tour package from Der as Salaam that includes transportation to Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Many travel agencies offer customized itineraries, which include a guide to enhance your experience. This option is more expensive but provides convenience, as pickups are directly from your accommodation and offer a chauffeur experience. The journey typically takes about 6 hours. Tours can include additional services like meals, park entry fees, and guided treks, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy the stunning biodiversity and trekking opportunities within the park.
Train and taxi: Traveling by train is a unique option to reach Udzungwa Mountains National Park. the journey starts from Der as Salaam, taking a train to Dodoma or Morogoro. The journey can take approximately 6-8 hours, depending on the service. Upon arrival, hire a taxi or use a local dala-dala to reach the park entrance, which may take another hour. This option provides an authentic travel experience, allowing you to view the countryside. While train schedules may vary, traveling this way gives a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy the landscape en route.
Air transport: Tourists can also choose to use air transport, which saves a lot of time because you get to skip the long travel trips and book your flight from Der as Salaam fly to Mikumi airport, and later take a short drive to the park
Things to do in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Hiking
Dungra Mountains National Park offers a range of hiking trails for all levels of experience, from easy day hikes to multi-day treks. The mountains are home to some of the most pristine and untouched rainforests in Africa, with towering trees, sparkling streams, and diverse wildlife. The trails take you through lush forest along ridges, and to the summits of the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Udzungwa Mountains National Park has several hiking trails including the famous Sanje Peak trails, which take you to the highest point in the park and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking in the Udzungwa Mountains is not just about reaching the summit, but also about immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The trails are well-marked and maintained but it is still essential to be prepared and bring the necessary gear such as hiking boots, comfortable clothing, and plenty of water. The experience is not just about the physical challenge, but also about connecting with nature and experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the local communities.
Wildlife watching
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is ideal for wildlife safaris in Tanzania, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including primates, antelopes, and birds. The national park is home to several primate species such as the rare and endangered Sanje mangabey which is found only in this region, other primates include, kipunji, udzungwa red colobus, Angola colobus, skyes’ monkey, yellow baboon and vervet monkeys, animals like antelopes, elephant, udzungwa red duiker, buffalo, hippopotamus, leopard. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 400 species of birds. During your guided wildlife-watching safari here, you’ll have the chance to spot these amazing creatures in their natural habitats.
Birding
Udzungwa Mountains National Park harbors about 400 bird species, making it the favorite destination for bird lovers. During your birding tours in the park, you will have the chance to spot a variety of colorful birds such as Shoebill, African Woolly-necked Stork, Water Thick-knee, Fiery-necked Nightjar, Montane Nightjar, White-browed Coucal, Purple-crested Turaco, Livingstone’s Turaco, African Green-Pigeon, Ring-necked Dove, Rock Pigeon, Eastern Crested Guineafowl, Udzungwa Partridge, Helmeted Guineafowl, African Black Duck, Yellow-billed Duck, Western Cattle Egret, Gray Heron, Black-headed Heron, Hadada Ibis, Palm-nut Vulture, Crowned Eagle, White-backed Vulture, Martial Eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle, Mountain Buzzard, Speckled Mousebird, Crowned Hornbill, Woodland Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Lesser Honeyguide, Olive Woodpecker, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Eurasian Kestrel, Meyer’s Parrot, African Broadbill, Gray Cuckooshrike, Green-headed Oriole, Black-throated Wattle-eye and African Paradise-Flycatcher among others.
Rock climbing
The Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers some of the best rock-climbing opportunities in Africa, with challenging routes for experienced climbing and gentle routes for beginners. The mountains are home to several rocks’ formations, including towering cliffs boulders and crags. Visitors can take a guided tour to explore this formation and climb to the top. Rock climbing in Udzungwa Mountain is an exhilarating experience that allows while you to challenge yourself physically and mentally while connecting with nature. The guided tours are led by experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its climbing routes. Visitors can also learn about safety precautions and how to navigate challenging terrain.
Cultural tours
Udzungwa Mountains National Park are home to several local communities such as Wanji and Pogoro tribes, that have a rich cultural heritage, visitors can take guided tours to explore these communities and learn about their traditions, customs and way of life. Visitors can also learn about traditional farming practices, handicrafts and music. Taking a cultural tour in Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a fascinating experience that allows you to connect with local communities and appreciate their unique cultural heritage. The guided tours led by experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of the local culture and traditions. Visitors can also learn about conservation efforts and how they can contribute to protecting these incredible ecosystems.
Accommodation facilities in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
The only possible inside accommodations in Udzungwa Mountains National Park are by camping as they are no lodges within the national park, a number of other small camping sites that offer overnight stays in the park includes, Udzungwa Falls Lodge, Angalia Tented Camp, Udzungwa Forested Tented Camp, Twiga Hotel and Udzungwa Mountain View Camp among others
Contact our trusted tour operators for information and inquiries about how to get to Udzungwa Mountains National Park and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania.
