3-Day Udzungwa Mountains Adventure
Journey into Tanzania's "Galapagos of Africa" - the biodiverse Udzungwa Mountains National Park. This 3-day trekking adventure takes you through pristine rainforests, to stunning waterfalls, and into habitats teeming with endemic wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Perfect for active travelers who want to combine hiking with wildlife viewing in one of Tanzania's most spectacular (but least visited) national parks.
Your trek will include the famous Sanje Waterfall hike, night walks to spot rare primates, and exploration of the park's network of forest trails. With over 400 bird species and 10 primate species (including the endangered Iringa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey), every step brings new discoveries in this untouched wilderness.
Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Udzungwa | Afternoon Forest Walk
Morning: Depart Dar es Salaam (6:00 AM) for the 5-6 hour drive through rural Tanzania to Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Stop for lunch in Mikumi town with views of the mountains.
Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge near the park entrance. After settling in, take a guided evening nature walk around the park periphery to spot:
- Sykes' monkeys and yellow baboons
- Forest birds like hornbills and turacos
- Nocturnal species on optional night walk (extra cost)
Day 2: Full Day Sanje Waterfall Trek
Early Morning: Begin the challenging but rewarding hike to Sanje Waterfall (4-5 hours roundtrip). The trail winds through:
- Dense rainforest with ancient trees
- Steep sections with rope assists
- Viewpoints overlooking the Kilombero Valley
Midday: Arrive at the stunning 170m-high Sanje Waterfall. Swim in the natural pools and enjoy picnic lunch surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Afternoon: Descend via a different route for varied scenery and wildlife spotting. Evening at leisure to rest sore muscles at the lodge.
Day 3: Primate Tracking & Return to Dar
Morning: Guided primate tracking walk searching for:
- Endangered Iringa red colobus monkeys
- Rare Sanje crested mangabeys
- Black-and-white colobus monkeys
Afternoon: Return to Dar es Salaam with drop-off at your hotel or airport by evening.
Why Trek Udzungwa?
- Biodiversity hotspot - 40% of plants and animals are endemic
- No roads - Only accessible on foot for authentic wilderness
- Spectacular waterfalls - Including Tanzania's highest (Sanje)
- Primate paradise - 10 species including rare endemics
- Few visitors - Experience nature without crowds