Udzungwa Mountains National Park
The "Galapagos of Africa" ÔÇö ancient rainforest harbouring endemic primates, spectacular waterfalls, and some of East Africa's finest hiking trails.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park protects one of the most biologically important forest blocks in Africa. Part of the Eastern Arc Mountains ÔÇö sometimes called the "Galapagos of Africa" for their extraordinary levels of endemism ÔÇö the Udzungwa range harbours species found nowhere else on Earth.
Unlike most Tanzanian parks, Udzungwa is a hiking destination rather than a driving safari park. There are no roads inside the park ÔÇö all exploration is on foot through dense tropical and montane rainforest, crossing streams, scrambling over roots, and ascending to viewpoints that reveal the vast forested landscape below.
The park's star attraction is the Sanje Waterfalls ÔÇö a stunning 170-metre cascade that plunges through the forest canopy in two dramatic tiers. The hike to the falls (3-4 hours round trip) passes through pristine forest alive with birdsong and primate calls.
For hikers, naturalists, and anyone seeking a Tanzania experience beyond the savannah, Udzungwa is an essential destination. The combination of endemic wildlife, ancient forest, and genuine wilderness trekking creates a profoundly different experience from the classic safari circuit.
Safari Tours in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
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Udzungwa is a biodiversity hotspot of global significance. The park is home to two endemic primate species found nowhere else: the Sanje mangabey and the Udzungwa red colobus. Other primates include Iringa red colobus, black-and-white colobus, blue monkeys, and galagos ÔÇö six primate species in total.
The forests shelter elephant, buffalo, leopard, bushpig, suni antelope, and the recently discovered grey-faced sengi (elephant shrew). Over 400 bird species have been recorded, including endemic and near-endemic species. The park's amphibian and reptile diversity is equally remarkable, with several species unique to these mountains.
How to Get There
Udzungwa is approximately 5 hours from Dar es Salaam by road, accessed via the town of Mang'ula on the A7 highway to Iringa. The park headquarters is just off the main road. Charter flights can land at Mikumi airstrip (1.5 hours drive away). The park combines well with Mikumi National Park for a Southern Circuit itinerary.
Park Fees & Regulations
Park entry fees are $35.40 per adult per 24 hours (non-resident). Guided walks are compulsory ÔÇö ranger guide fees apply. Camping fees for overnight treks are additional. The park is one of Tanzania's most affordable wilderness experiences.