Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Hifadhi ya Taifa ya Milima ya Udzungwa

A pristine montane forest park renowned for trekking, waterfalls, and endemic wildlife including primates found nowhere else, offering dramatic canyon scenery and misty highlands. It's less crowded than major parks and provides excellent hiking with opportunities to spot rare forest species.

Things to do

• Sungani Waterfall Trek — Hike through lush montane forest to a stunning 200-meter waterfall cascading into a natural pool, one of the park's most iconic and accessible trails.
• Mwanihana Ridge Trail — Challenge yourself on this steep, full-day trek that ascends to 2,286 meters with panoramic views of the Iringa region and surrounding peaks through misty cloud forest.
• Primate Spotting — Search for Udzungwa's endemic species including the Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje mangabey, found nowhere else on Earth, guided by experienced rangers.
• Irungu Falls — Trek to this remote waterfall hidden within dense forest, offering a quieter alternative to popular routes with opportunities to encounter forest birds and butterflies.
• Camping in Campsites — Stay overnight at designated forest campsites like those near Sungani to experience the park's nocturnal sounds and witness mist-covered valleys at dawn.
• Bird Watching — Identify over 400 bird species including the endemic Udzungwa forest partridge and various eagles soaring above the forest canopy.
• Scramble Streams and Pools — Cool off in crystal-clear mountain streams and natural rock pools fed by waterfalls during the dry season trekking.

Food to try

• Ugali with Leafy Greens — Maize meal staple served with nutritious local greens like sukuma wiki, commonly eaten by guides and porters in the villages surrounding the park.
• Bean and Groundnut Stew — Hearty protein-rich stew combining dried beans with ground peanuts, a filling option available at park lodges and village homestays.
• Fresh Mountain Fish — Tilapia or catfish from local streams, grilled or fried with lime and spices, available at certain lodges and village restaurants near park entrances.
• Nyama Choma — Grilled meat skewers prepared over charcoal fires, a popular evening meal at park accommodations and nearby village establishments.
• Cassava and Sweet Potato — Boiled or roasted root vegetables that form the carbohydrate base of local highland cuisine, easily found at visitor facilities.

Local customs & good to know

• Hire Licensed Park Guides — Always trek with an official guide from the park authority, as they provide essential wildlife knowledge, ensure your safety, and support local employment and conservation efforts.
• Respect Forest Communities — The park borders villages of the Hehe and other ethnic groups who have historical ties to the forest; greet locals respectfully and ask permission before photographing people or settlements.
• Pack Out All Waste — The park's pristine ecosystem is fragile; carry out all trash, use designated toilet facilities, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife to preserve this unique environment.
• Bring Adequate Rainfall Gear — The mountains receive heavy rainfall year-round with afternoon mists; waterproof jackets and gaiters are essential for safe and comfortable trekking.

Nearby

• Sungani Waterfall (Morogoro & Udzungwa) — 10 km
• Chalinze Hot Springs (Morogoro & Udzungwa) — 13 km
• Morogoro to Iringa Scenic Route (Morogoro & Udzungwa) — 42 km
• Mikumi National Park — 60 km