Udzungwa National Park & Waterfalls: 3-Day Uluguru Hike, Wildlife and Swim
Three days of mountain hiking, a game-drive corridor to Mikumi and a day of rainforest walking to Udzungwa’s waterfalls. Expect steep forest trails, endemic monkeys, and a refreshing waterfall swim.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start Early
Begin hikes at dawn when temperatures are cooler and wildlife activity is higher.
Wear Grippy Footwear
Trails include steep, rooty and wet sections—sturdy hiking shoes with good tread reduce slip risk.
Bring Local Currency
Park fees, local guides and small village purchases often require Tanzanian shillings—carry cash.
Hydrate & Purify
Carry 2–3 liters and a small purifier or tablets—the mountain streams can look clear but treatable.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sanje Waterfalls plunge pools—arrive midweek or early morning to avoid crowds
- •Kilombero overlook picnic spot for views over the floodplain and river meanders
Wildlife
- •Sanje mangabey (endemic)
- •Udzungwa red colobus
Conservation Note
The park faces pressure from agricultural expansion and logging; community-guided tourism and regulated park access help protect key forest tracts and waterways.
The Udzungwa range is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, an ancient and biodiverse chain long recognized by scientists for high levels of endemism and cultural links to local farming communities.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Provide ankle support and traction on steep, muddy trails.
Light rain jacketEssential
Protects against sudden tropical showers and keeps you warm on damp ridgelines.
Reusable water bottle + purifierEssential
Keeps you hydrated and allows safe refilling from mountain streams.
Insect repellent and head net
Useful in lowland and riverine sections where mosquitoes are common.
Common Questions
Do I need permits or park fees?
Yes — entry fees and guide fees are required for Udzungwa; these are usually collected at park entrances or arranged by the tour operator.
How strenuous is the waterfall hike?
Expect sustained uphill and downhill walking with some steep root-and-rock sections; moderate fitness and stable footwear are recommended.
Can I swim at the waterfalls?
Yes, swimming in designated plunge pools is common, but avoid swimming after heavy rains when currents are strong.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Udzungwa hosts endemic primates like the Sanje mangabey and Udzungwa red colobus, plus diverse birdlife and occasional larger mammals on the game drive to Mikumi.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 days (multi-day itinerary)
Location
Mikumi, Morogoro Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with regular walking fitness; involves sustained uphill sections, some scrambling and several hours of hiking each day.
Ready to Explore Mikumi?
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