Nestled in the heart of Tanzania's Southern Circuit, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a biodiversity hotspot often referred to as the "African Galápagos" due to its incredible number of endemic species. Unlike the classic game drives of the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Udzungwa is a place to explore on foot, immersing yourself in lush rainforests, discovering hidden waterfalls, and encountering rare wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. The park spans nearly 2,000 square kilometers and is home to over 400 bird species and several endemic primates, including the Udzungwa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey. This 2-day safari adventure is designed for nature lovers, hikers, and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in one of Africa's most biodiverse regions.
Tour Highlights
- Hike through pristine rainforests with expert local guides
- Trek to the spectacular 170-meter Sanje Waterfalls
- Spot endemic primates including the Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey
- Discover over 400 bird species
- Experience the unique biodiversity of the Eastern Arc Mountains
- Swim in natural plunge pools at the base of waterfalls
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Kilombero Valley
- Camp overnight in the heart of the rainforest
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Udzungwa
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Pickup from your hotel in Morogoro or Mikumi |
| 10:30 AM | Scenic drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park |
| 12:00 PM | Arrival at the park entrance, complete registration |
| 12:30 PM | Check-in at your lodge or camp near the park |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at the lodge |
| 3:00 PM | Guided nature walk on the Prince Bernhard Nature Trail (1-hour walk), introduction to the forest ecosystem |
| 5:00 PM | Return to the lodge, relax and enjoy the views |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner at the lodge |
| 9:00 PM | Overnight stay at the lodge |
Overnight: Udzungwa Forest Lodge or similar
Day 2: Sanje Waterfalls Hike and Primate Trekking
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:30 AM | Early breakfast at the lodge |
| 7:30 AM | Depart for the Sanje Waterfalls Trail |
| 8:00 AM | Start the 4 to 6-hour guided hike through the rainforest |
| 10:00 AM | Primate trekking, spot Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey |
| 12:00 PM | Arrive at the spectacular 170-meter Sanje Waterfalls |
| 12:30 PM | Picnic lunch at the waterfall, swim in the plunge pool |
| 2:00 PM | Continue exploring the trail, bird watching and nature photography |
| 4:00 PM | Return to the lodge, relax and freshen up |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner at the lodge |
| 9:00 PM | Overnight stay at the lodge |
Overnight: Udzungwa Forest Lodge or similar
Day 3: Morning Hike and Departure
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:30 AM | Breakfast at the lodge |
| 7:30 AM | Short morning guided walk along the park trails (2 hours) |
| 9:30 AM | Final wildlife spotting and bird watching |
| 10:30 AM | Return to the lodge, check-out |
| 11:00 AM | Depart for Morogoro or Mikumi |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch stop along the way |
| 3:00 PM | Arrive in Morogoro or Mikumi, drop-off at your hotel |
Park Fees
| Fee Type | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult Entry (Non-Resident) | $30 per day |
| Adult Entry (Resident) | $15 per day |
| Camping Fee | $30 per person per night |
| Hiking Guide Fee | $20 per group |
| Ranger Fee | $10 per group |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June to October | Best hiking conditions, clear trails, minimal mud |
| Short Rains | November to December | Lush vegetation, fewer crowds |
| Short Dry | January to February | Good hiking conditions, clear skies |
| Long Rains | March to May | Muddy trails, challenging conditions, but lush scenery |
What is Included
The 2-day Udzungwa safari includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Morogoro or Mikumi, transport in a comfortable safari vehicle, a professional English-speaking guide, park entrance fees, accommodation at a lodge or camp for 2 nights, all meals as per the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), bottled drinking water, and all mentioned activities and hikes.
What is Not Included
International flights, Tanzania visa fees, travel and medical insurance, tips for guides and lodge staff, personal expenses and souvenirs, alcoholic and soft drinks, and optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are excluded.
