Udzungwa Mountains National Park – Tanzania's Premier Hiking & Rainforest Safari Destination
Overview of Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering 20,226 km², yet it remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers unmatched wildlife encounters with fewer crowds, making it ideal for safari enthusiasts seeking exclusivity. Ruaha is known for its large lion populations,
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is one of Tanzania’s most spectacular nature destinations and a paradise for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventure travelers. Located in Southern Tanzania, the park covers approximately 1,990 km² and forms part of the ancient Eastern Arc Mountains, one of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots.
Unlike traditional safari parks focused on vehicle-based game drives, Udzungwa offers a unique walking safari experience through tropical rainforests, mountain trails, waterfalls, and pristine wilderness. The park is famous for its rich concentration of endemic species, rare primates, and the breathtaking Sanje Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Tanzania.
For travelers seeking a different side of Tanzania beyond classic wildlife safaris, Udzungwa Mountains National Park delivers unforgettable hiking adventures and incredible natural beauty.
rare African wild dogs, massive elephant herds, and diverse bird species.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park Reviews
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is consistently praised for its spectacular rainforest scenery, scenic hiking trails, rich biodiversity, and impressive waterfalls. Visitors frequently highlight the famous Sanje Waterfalls, encounters with endemic monkeys, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and the peaceful atmosphere away from traditional safari crowds. Many travellers describe Udzungwa as one of Tanzania’s most rewarding destinations for hiking, photography, and nature-based adventures.
Read Full Reviews →Why Visit Udzungwa Mountains National Park?
✅ Home to the famous Sanje Waterfalls
✅ Tanzania’s best national park for hiking and trekking
✅ Exceptional rainforest and mountain scenery
✅ Rich primate population including endemic monkey species
✅ More than 400 recorded bird species
✅ Perfect combination with Mikumi National Park Safaris
✅ Ideal for active travelers and nature enthusiasts
✅ One of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots
Where is Udzungwa Mountains National Park Located?
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is located in Southern Tanzania between Mikumi National Park and Ruaha National Park. The park forms part of Tanzania’s famous Southern Safari Circuit and lies approximately 350 kilometers from Dar es Salaam.
Its strategic location makes it easy to combine with wildlife safaris in Mikumi and Nyerere National Park.
How to Get to Udzungwa Mountains National Park
By Road: Approximately 5–6 hours from Dar es Salaam via Morogoro.
From Mikumi: About 1–2 hours by road.
By Air: Charter flights are available to nearby airstrips serving Southern Tanzania safari destinations.
Many travelers combine Udzungwa with Mikumi National Park, creating one of Tanzania’s most popular safari and hiking itineraries.
Wildlife in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Although Udzungwa is not a traditional game-viewing destination, it supports remarkable biodiversity.
Primates of Udzungwa
The park is internationally recognized for its primate populations.
Visitors may encounter:
✔ Iringa Red Colobus Monkey
✔ Sanje Crested Mangabey
✔ Yellow Baboons
✔ Blue Monkeys
✔ Vervet Monkeys
✔ Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys
Two of these species are found nowhere else in the world.
Other Wildlife
✔ Bushbucks
✔ Forest Antelope
✔ Civets
✔ Small Carnivores
✔ Reptiles and Amphibians
✔ Hundreds of Butterfly Species
Birdwatching in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa is one of Tanzania’s premier birdwatching destinations.
Birding Highlights
✔ More than 400 recorded bird species
✔ Udzungwa Forest Partridge
✔ Rufous-winged Sunbird
✔ Livingstone’s Turaco
✔ African Green Pigeon
✔ Narina Trogon
✔ Numerous endemic forest species
Birdwatching is excellent throughout the year, particularly during the green season when forests are most active.