Visit Southern Tanzania
Belonging to the Eastern Arc Mountain Range, the Udzungwa Mountains are covered in thick lush rainforest. Rising up from the flat Kilombero plains the green peaks disappear into the clouds. Immense trees stretch towards the light, lianas and creepers intertwine, leaves drip with dew and tree roots crisscross the earth.
One of Tanzania’s wildlife hotspots, the Udzungwa Mountains are home to many endemic plant, animal and bird species. Possibly the most exciting are the twelve primate species, three of which, the Sanje crested mangabey, Uhehe red colobus and Matunda galago, are endemic. There are lots of other primates, including yellow baboons, blue monkeys and Angola colobus, as well as other animals, such as bushbuck and the rare Abbott’s duiker.
There are no roads in the mountains and thus exploring is best done on foot. There is a lovely four-hour hike up to the Sanje waterfall on a low peak, a steep climb best taken at a gentle pace. Once there, you can dangle your feet in the crystal clear waters and enjoy the views and clouds of butterflies around you. As there is no good accommodation near the mountains, we recommend you stay in Mikumi National Park, an hour’s drive away.