Udzungwa Mountains National Park

　　   On the jungle plains along the eastern coast of Tanzania, several large mountains rise abruptly from the land, covered in forests and forming a continuous belt, collectively known as the Eastern Arc Mountains. Udzungwa is the largest and most biodiverse of these mountains. The range consists of several isolated hills and is also referred to as the Galápagos of Africa due to its unique flora and fauna, most famously including the beautiful African violet.

　　   Udzungwa is the only hill in the older part of the Eastern Arc range to be designated as a national park, and it is also the only one in Tanzania with continuous forest cover ranging from 250 meters to 2,576 meters above sea level. Rather than being a traditional wildlife viewing destination, Udzungwa is a hiking paradise. There are numerous forest trails, including the popular half-day hike to Sanje Waterfalls. The falls plunge 170 meters through the forested valley, creating a fine mist.

　　   Thanks to its favorable climate for birds, the park is home to more than 400 species. From the charming and easily spotted green-headed oriole to lesser-known endemic species of the Eastern Arc Mountains, birdwatchers flock here. Among the six recorded primate species, two are endemic to the area: the Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey, the latter of which was not discovered by biologists until 1979.

　　   Udzungwa Mountains National Park Must-visit reason: One of Africa’s most biodiverse national parks Continent: Africa [Africa] Country/Region: Tanzania [Tanzania] Province/State: Morogoro Region [Morogoro Region]