Park Snapshot

  • Gazetted: 1992
  • Area: ~1,990 km²
  • Altitude: 250 m – 2,576 m (Luhombero Peak)
  • Location: Eastern Tanzania (Eastern Arc Mountains)
  • Character: Entirely Non-Motorized (No roads/vehicles)

Landscape & Character

Udzungwa is a rainforest paradise defined by montane forest, bamboo thickets, and cloud-shrouded peaks. It is strictly a trekker’s and biologist’s dream.

Sanje Waterfall (170 m): Tanzania’s highest accessible waterfall.

Luhombero Peak (2,576 m): The highest point in the range — a multi-day expedition.

Ecosystem & Endemic Biodiversity

Endemic Primates & Mammals

Home to species found nowhere else on Earth.

  • Endemic Primates: Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje mangabey (discovered in 1979).
  • Duikers: Abbott’s duiker (endangered) and giant forest squirrel.
  • Flora: Over 2,500 plant species, ~25% endemic.

Avian & Aquatic Life

  • Birds: Over 400 species; includes 10 endemics (e.g., Udzungwa forest partridge).
  • Amphibians: 30+ endemic frog species, plus unique chameleons.
  • Best Season: Birdlife is highest during Nov–Apr (breeding/migrant).

Conservation & Heritage

  • Ancient: Forests date back over 25 million years.
  • Water: Protects watersheds feeding the Kilombero River and Ruaha system.
  • Fun Fact: Locals call Sanje Falls “maji ya roho” — “the water that revives the soul.”

Main Trails, Climate & Logistics

1. Sanje Waterfall

4–6 km | 2–4 hrs | Moderate

Leads to 170 m falls with swimming pools. Ideal for day visitors.

2. Mwanihana Peak

38 km | 2–3 days | Strenuous

Classic summit trek with camping; views over Kilombero Valley.

3. Luhombero Peak

4–5 days | Expedition

Strenuous expedition through remote interior forest.

4. Sonjo Trail

1–2 hrs | Easy

Short, family-friendly walk focused on birds and butterflies.

Climate & Seasons

Dry season offers the best trekking conditions.

SeasonMonthsTrekking Condition
Dry Jun–Oct Cool, Best Weather
Green Nov–May Lush, Mist, High Humidity (Peak Birding)

Access & Operational Notes

  • Access: Road (~5–6 hrs from Dar) or TAZARA rail line (Mang’ula Station).
  • Accommodation: Public/special campsites inside; Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp outside.
  • Guides: Mandatory for all treks (TANAPA ranger + local porter).
  • Safety: Wear hiking boots, carry a rain jacket, and use leech repellent in wet months.

Blacksand Recommended Pairings

Mikumi National Park (Savannah Contrast) Ruaha (Big Game Extension) Kilombero Valley (Birding & Cultural)

Conservation: Blacksand Adventures partners with the Udzungwa Ecological Monitoring Centre (UEMC) to support vital forest research and ranger funding.