Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
The Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve is the fourth-largest protected area within the Eastern Arc Mountains. Mkingu Nature Reserve is the largest forest remaining in the South Nguru Mountains. The forest is home to many plant and animal species including Black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mountain galagos, and Black-and-rufous elephant shrews. The Nguru Mountains are located in Mvomero District, in Morogoro Region. These mountains extend up to 2,400 m altitude.
Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve was declared as a forest nature reserve in 2016 and it comprised of the former Nguru South Forest Reserve and Mkingu Forest Reserve.
The reserve is home to beautiful plants and animals that have never been recorded elsewhere including 19 plant taxa. The reserve is also home to seven vertebrate species that are unique to the South Nguru Mountains. More so six new amphibian species were recorded from the South Nguru Mountains. For bird watchers, the reserve offers a chance to see 215 bird species including a rare chance to see Moreau’s sunbird and banded green sunbird.
The South Nguru Landscape is the main water catchment area for the Wami River. This river provides water to Chalinze Town, the Mtibwa sugar plantation, and many villages in Morogoro and Coast Region. The reserve is also a home to, Ubiri or Kombola communities.
Climate
The estimated annual rainfall received in Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve ranges from 1,200 – 4,000 mm with the dry season lasting from June to September. The dry season is not marked on the eastern side, which experiences maximum rainfall. Maximum temperature ranges from 12 degrees Celsius to 24 degrees Celsius
Attractions
Wildlife
Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve a home to at least 6 block endemic vertebrate species including 5 amphibians and 1 reptile. More so the reserve is also home to 29 Eastern Arc endemic vertebrate species in the South Nguru Mountains. Surprisingly over endangered 19 vertebrates originate from the Nguru Mountains, 18 are endemic to the Forest Reserve and 17 are endemic to the Eastern Arc Mountains. Some of the wildlife species include the Black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mountain galagos, and Black-and-rufous elephant shrews.
Birdlife in Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
The Forest Reserve is home to a diverse range of bird species. With over 215 bird species including a rare chance to see Moreau’s sunbird and banded green sunbird. Other bird species found here include African Green Pigeon, Mikado Pheasant, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, Black-and-white Mannikin, Crested Guinea Fowl, White-headed Wood Hoopoe, Tanzanian Red-billed Hornbill, Olive Sunbird, Yellow-winged Ptyilia and Scaly-throated Honeyguide among others
Vegetation
Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve consists of seven vegetation types that are; lowland rainforest, sub-montane forest, montane forest, upper montane forest, drier-montane forests, heath, and miombo woodlands. The forest vegetation varies according to altitude. Lowland rainforest occurs between 300-900 m in valleys of the eastern slopes. Sub-montane forest covers a large area between 900 and 1,400 m in the eastern valleys, with fragments on the western slopes at 1,400-1,500 m. Montane Forest occurs between 1,400 and 1,800 m with moss-covered upper montane forests at higher altitudes, and drier montane forests on the western side.
Tourist activities to do at Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
Guided nature walks
One of the best ways to explore the beauty of the Forest Reserve is by taking a guided nature walk. This activity is guided by an experienced armed ranger, who will lead visitors through the forest, pointing out unique plants, animals, insects, and bird species along the way. During your guided nature walk tour, you will have the opportunity to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the reserve up close and learn about the importance of conservation efforts in preserving this natural habitat.
Bird watching
Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Tanzania. The reserve is home to over 215 bird species recorded in the area. While on your birding tours, you will have the chance to spot colorful birds such as Moreau’s sunbird, Banded green sunbird, African Green Pigeon, Mikado Pheasant, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, Black-and-white Mannikin, African Fish Eagle, Grey Crowned Crane, and Yellow-bellied Waxbill among others. Visitors planning to take part in this thrilling activity are required to move along with the binoculars and camera to spot these beautiful birds and other wildlife species clearly.
Canoeing and kayaking
The reserve is bordered by the scenic Kinga River, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities like canoeing and kayaking. Visitors are engaged to rent a canoe or kayak from one of the local villagers and paddle along the tranquil river, taking in the remarkable surroundings.
Hiking
Explore the stunning natural and cultural richness of Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve through two scenic nature trails.
The Maskati – Kombora trail. This trail begins at Maskati Village and concludes at Ubiri Village, taking roughly 6 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be delighted with the breathtaking views of the Makunguru Peak and the picturesque Dibohero Waterfalls.
Mhonda – Mafuta trail. Starting from Mhonda Village, this trail passes through Kwelikwiji, Mafuta, and Ubiri Villages, spanning approximately 7 hours. Adventurers will encounter the dramatic Lusingiso waterfalls before arriving at the campsite in Mkindo Village. Information about guides is available from the Nature Reserve Office in Mkindo Village
Camping and picnicking
For a truly immersive experience in nature, consider camping or picnicking in the Forest Reserve.
Access to Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
The Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve is most conveniently accessed from Turiani Town, located approximately 120 km from Morongoro Town. From Turiani, visitors have two options; they can head towards Maskati village or reach the reserve through Mhonda village.
Accommodation at Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
In Madizini Town, visitors will find simple guest houses for accommodation. Within the Forest Reserve itself, there is a campsite located 800 meters from the center of Mafuta village, on the eastern side of the reserve. Visitors planning to have a night in the wilderness should come fully prepared, as they bring their own camping equipment, such as food, drinking water, and cooking facilities. The basic supplies can be purchased in Madizini Town.
