Overview
For the hikers, nature lovers, and explorers seeking something beyond the traditional safari, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Known as the “Galápagos of Africa” due to its extraordinary biodiversity, this lush, mist-covered mountain range is home to endemic species found nowhere else on Earth — including the Udzungwa red colobus monkey and the Sanje mangabey.
The park’s dense rainforests, sun-drenched grasslands, and rugged peaks make it a hiker’s dream. The Sanje Waterfall hike is a must — a rewarding trek through the forest that ends at a breathtaking 170-meter waterfall, where you can cool off in the natural pools below. For the more adventurous, longer treks take you deep into the mountains, where you might spot rare chameleons, butterflies, and an astonishing variety of birds.
The best time to visit is June to October when the trails are drier and easier to navigate. However, the wet season from November to May brings the forest to life with vibrant greens, blooming wildflowers, and rich bird activity — though the paths can be slippery and challenging for trekking.