Udzungwa Mountains National park covers an area of 1990 sq. km, is centered on 30 41’E and 70 48′ S in the Iringa and Morogoro regions of South Central Tanzania. It is part of the biodiversity and a chain of dozen large forest-swathed mountains that rise majestically from the flat coastal scrub of eastern Tanzania. Collectively known as the Eastern Arc Mountains, which is series of mountains ranging from the Taita Hills in Southern Kenya to the Makambako Gap in Southern central Tanzania.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park is known for its treasure trove of plants and animals. This biodiversity makes it one of the most incredible places in the world. Some species of plants and animals that inhabit in these mountains cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The mountains are sometimes referred to as the “Galapagos Islands of Africa” because of this amazing diversity. The Eastern Arc Mountains in Udzungwa Mountains National Park are small and fragmented mountains. Each mountain rises like a lush emerald island from the arid savannah. The mountains are covered in dense tropical rainforest, and it is here that countless species make their homes. These mountains contain thirty to forty percent of Tanzania’s plant and animal life. This is an incredibly high number. In addition, many of these plants and animals are unique to this region.
Although not a conventional game viewing destination, Udzungwa is a magnet for hikers. An excellent network of forest trails includes the popular half-day ramble to Sanje Waterfall, which plunges 170 meters (550 feet) through a misty spray into the forested valley below.
The most challenging two-night Mwanihana Trail leads to the high plateau, with its panoramic views over the surrounding sugar plantations, before ascending to Mwanihana peak, the second-highest point in the range.
The major attraction of the park is its diverse plant and animal life. Udzungwa Mountains National Park is full of unique species of plants, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and insects. Undoubtedly this great forest has yet to reveal all its treasures.