Wildlife viewing safaris in Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Wildlife viewing safaris in Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Udzungwa Mountains National Park is located in Iringa and Morogoro regions, south-central Tanzania. The Park covers a land area of approximately 1,990 square kilometers and lies within Kilolo and Kilombero Districts in the Iringa and Morogoro Regions respectively. The Selous Game Reserve is to the east and Mikumi National Park is to the northeast. The Great Ruaha River borders the park in the north while the Ruipa and Msosa Rivers are in the west. The park extends to an altitude of 200m to 2,576m above sea level. Udzungwa Mountains National Park was gazetted in 1992 from the former Forest Reserves of Mwanihana, Iwonde, Nyanganje, and parts of Matundu and the West Kilombero Forest Reserves
Wildlife viewing in Udzungwa Mountains National Park is an exhilarating adventure that can lead to the discovery of rare and endemic species. The park is home to various mammals such as elephants, leopards, Udzungwa red duiker, bushbucks, palm civets, buffalos, hunting dogs, African wild dogs, hunting dogs, lions, and hippopotamuss. The lush vegetation supports a diverse primate such as Sanje mangabey, kipunji, Udzungwa red colobus, Angola colobus, Sykes’s monkey, yellow baboon, vervet monkeys, and an array of bird species, providing ample opportunities for nature lovers. Guided wildlife viewing expeditions in the park typically include early morning and late afternoon sightings. Wildlife viewing at Udzungwa Mountains National Park are conducted in two sessions that is to say during day time wildlife viewing and night lions, wildlife viewing safaris. But during that time game drive set out a great adventure where you can be able to view different experiences of wildlife species that like to inhabit the vegetation covers and you are most likely to have fantastic sightseeing of areas and behaviors of other game in the same location among others. During your Wildlife viewing tours, you will have the chance to spot a variety of these captivating creatures in their natural habitat.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park harbors about 400 bird species, making it the favorite destination for bird lovers. During your birding tours in the park, you will have the chance to spot variety of colorful birds such as brown snake-eagle, black goshawk, bar-tailed trogon, brown-headed parrot, Helmeted Guineafowl, Udzungwa Partridge, African Black Duck, Speckled Pigeon, Blue-spotted Wood-Dove, Purple-crested Turaco and Red-chested Cuckoo, Montane Nightjar among others
Other activities to do at Udzungwa Mountains National Park besides wildlife viewing safari
Hiking and trekking: Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering a range of trails that cater to various skill levels. From gentle strolls along the paths to challenging treks leading to stunning waterfalls, the park’s diverse landscapes promise breathtaking views and encounters with unique flora. Popular trails, like those leading to Sanje waterfalls, provide an unforgettable experience that highlights the park’s biodiversity, making it a perfect complement of cycling tours.
Birdwatching: The Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a renowned hotspot for birdwatching, attracting enthusiast seeking to observe some of the 400 bird species that inhabit the area. With its varied ecosystems, the park offers opportunities to see endemic species unique to the region, like the Udzungwa Forest Partridge and the yellow-crowded canary. Birdwatching in the park is mostly conducted early in the morning when these majestic birds are most active, offering birders with a serene experience, combining the thrill of spotting rare birds with the peaceful backdrop of lush forest and stunning mountain views.
Cultural tours: Engaging in cultural tours around Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers tourists a unique opportunity to connect with local communities. These tours allow tourists to learn about the traditions, lifestyles, and practices of indigenous groups like the Mbunga and Pogoro. Tourists can partake in activities such as cooking traditional meals, participating in local crafts-making, and experiencing village life firsthand among others.
Photography: With its striking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant ecosystems, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a photographer’s dream. Tourists can capture images of cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, and colorful bird species. The combination of lush forests and unique geological formations offers endless opportunities for breathtaking photography. Guided photography tours can help you learn techniques while exploring optimal locations and lighting conditions.
Waterfall exploration: The Udzungwa Mountains feature some of the Tanzania’s most stunning waterfalls, making exploration of these natural wonders a must-do activity. Hikes to famous spots such as the Sanje waterfall provide tourists with the chance to view cascading waters in picturesque surroundings. These waterfalls are not only visually captivating but also provide opportunities for swimming and picnicking in refreshing pools below. Each waterfall offers a unique setting, allowing for a memorable experience while enjoying the serenity of unique nature and the beautiful landscape
Camping: For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, camping in Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers an unforgettable experience. Campsites allows tourists to sleep under the stars, surrounded by the park’s diverse ecosystems. Caping also offers a unique opportunity for stargazing and experiencing the park’s true wilderness.
