Udzungwa Mountains Hike – Mwanihana Route
Explore Tours
Hiking Udzungwa Mountains: Nestled in the Usambara mountain chain, Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers an exceptional adventure for nature lovers. Accessible via a 380km road journey from Dar es Salaam, you will arrive at Mang’ula, located just 1km from the park entrance.
The trek to Mwanihana Peak (2,500 meters), the highest point of the park, spans 38 km over three days. Throughout this thrilling hike, you’ll enjoy camping in scenic spots and be immersed in lush green surroundings. The trail takes you through a rich tapestry of nature, including soothing waterfalls, vibrant plant life, and incredible wildlife encounters. Along the way, you may spot endemic bird species, playful primates, and diverse flora. This three-day hike promises an unforgettable experience for those who love the great outdoors and are keen to explore one of Tanzania’s most pristine natural environments.
Included/Exclude
Tour Amenities
Tour Plan
Hiking Distance: 12 km
Hiking Time: 7 hours
After arriving at Udzungwa Mountain Park Gate for registration, we’ll drive to the trailhead where the adventure begins. The hike will cover approximately 6 km to Mizimu Campsite, where we’ll pause for a well-deserved lunch break. Following lunch, we’ll continue with another 6 km to GMP (Giant Mahogany Plateau).
As you make your way along the trail, be prepared to encounter an array of wildlife, including various bird species and primates. The forest’s biodiversity will add an exciting dimension to your trek. Upon arrival at GMP in the evening, we’ll set up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and unwind in the serene surroundings for a restful night under the stars.
Hiking Distance: 7 km
Hiking Time: 5 hours hike (3 hours to descend)
After a hearty breakfast around 7:30 AM, we’ll set off on a thrilling 7 km hike to the Mwanihana Peak at 2,500 meters, where the stunning panoramic views will make the climb worthwhile. The hike to the peak will take approximately 5 hours. Along the way, keep an eye out for primates, including the rare monkey species indigenous to the area, as well as a variety of plants and reptiles.
Once at the summit, you’ll have ample time to enjoy the view before beginning our descent, which will take about 3 hours. The entire trek promises to be an unforgettable experience immersed in the natural beauty of Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
Hiking Distance: 5 km
Hiking Time: 12 km (for descent)
Today, we will begin our descent as we make our way back to the park entrance. The hike will cover a 5 km distance, allowing us to reflect on the beautiful landscapes we’ve experienced. As we conclude our trek, this is also an opportunity for you to show your appreciation for the hard work of the porters and guides. Tipping them is entirely at your discretion, and any gesture of thanks is always highly appreciated. Once we reach the entrance, we’ll conclude the trek and begin our journey back, marking the end of this incredible adventure in Udzungwa Mountains.
