Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Destination overview
Explore the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls of Udzungwa!
The Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a stunning area in southern Tanzania, is a haven of exclusivity. It boasts various habitats such as tropical rainforest, mountain and miombo forest, grassland, and steppe. Here, you’ll find more than 400 species of birds, thousands of plants, and six species of monkeys – including the rare Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey, which are unique to this region. The Udzungwa National Park proudly holds the second-largest biodiversity of any national park in Africa, making it an exciting and privileged destination for your Tanzania Safari!
UDZUNGWA WILDLIFE
Udzungwa Mountains is a haven for wildlife, boasting various species. It is home to different animals, including the rare Abbott’s duiker, the elusive Kipunji, and the peculiar grey-faced sengi. The forests along the southern escarpment are inhabited by elephants, adding to the park’s allure. Notably, six primate species, including the exclusive Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey, are found only in this area. The latter, astonishingly, remained undiscovered by biologists until 1979.
The Kihansi spray toad, a remarkable success story in conservation, resides around a waterfall on the Kihansi River. It faced a brief extinction in the wild in 2009 when an upstream dam altered its habitat. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of scientists, they were successfully reintroduced after a fruitful captive breeding program, inspiring hope for the future of wildlife conservation.
BIRDS IN THE NATIONAL PARK
For avid birdwatchers, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a paradise with its rich avian diversity. The park is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a top destination for bird enthusiasts. The area is considered one of the top three African mainland bird conservation areas.
For bird enthusiasts, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a treasure trove of unique species. It is home to the African marabou, Crowned eagle, Ruppells vulture, and African hobby. In recent years, scientists have made exciting discoveries, including the Francolin and Rufous-winged Sunbird. The park also hosts species such as the Dappled mountain robin, Sharpe’s akalat, Olive-flanked robin-chat, and White-chested alethe. The Udzungwa forest partridge, a species with its closest relatives appearing to be the hill partridges of Asia, was a thrilling find in 1991. These unique bird species make Udzungwa a must-visit destination for birdwatchers.
CLIMATE IN UDZUNGWA
Udzungwa experiences most of its rainfall during the November and March-to-May wet seasons. However, mist and light rain are common at higher elevations, even during the dry season. Temperatures are milder at higher elevations, offering a pleasant climate for visitors. It’s advisable to avoid visiting the park during the rainy season, with the best time to visit being from June to October.
It takes about 6 hours to travel from Dar Es Salaam to Udzungwa National Park, 1.5 hours from Udzungwa to Mikumi, and 6 to 7 hours by car from Udzungwa to Ruaha.
What to Do?
Things to do at Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Game Drive 4x4 Experience
Enjoy Scenic Views
Cultural Encounters
Photography Expedition
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King Solomon Safaris offers customized travel experiences in Tanzania that combine wildlife safaris, mountain treks, and beach vacations to suit every traveler’s preferences.
TANZANIA SAFARI
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Unlocking the Wonders of Tanzania Safari: Our Top FAQs, Answered
Frequently Ask Questions
Explore the frequently asked questions surrounding Tanzania safari adventures to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, especially with reputable tour operators. However, it's essential to follow your guide's instructions and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding approaching wild animals and staying within designated areas.
Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife, which includes the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. You can also encounter giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, cheetahs, and many bird species.
The best time for a Tanzania safari largely depends on what you wish to experience. The dry season (from June to October) offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Meanwhile, the wet season (from November to May) is ideal for birdwatching and witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti.
Tanzania offers diverse accommodation options, from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly campsites. Each property offers a unique experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape while enjoying modern amenities.
Most visitors to Tanzania can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport or any Tanzania border crossing. However, checking the specific visa requirements and details based on your nationality is advisable before traveling to Tanzania.
