Situated in the north-east of Tanzania. With their wide vistas, cool climate, winding paths and picturesque villages, the Usambaras are one of Tanzania’s highlights.
The Usambaras are a part of the ancient Eastern Arc chain which mountains stretch in a broken crescent from the Taita hills in southern Kenya down to Morogoro and the southern highlands. They are estimated to be at least 100 million years old and the rocks forming them may be as much as 600 million years old. The mountains are home to an exceptional assortment of plants and animals and represent one of the highest degrees of biodiversity on the continent.
In the latter half of the 19th century it is reported that there was a lot of war and terror with neighboring tribes which ended with the German colonization. The Germans discovered the charm of the Usmabara’s and they established Lushoto (during those days named Wilhelmsthal) and it was a favoured holiday spot for colonial administrators. Today you still find many traces of the German times. Tanganyika became a British mandate territory after World War I. The British administration continued to reserve and exploit forests. After independence in 1961 the Ujamaa politics or so called “African socialism” of Tanzania’s first president Nyerere brought one of the best organized village communities in Africa which still exists today in the Usambara. Besides the historical sites the Usambaras have a lot of interesting places and activities. It is a exquisite place for hiking, bird watching, mountain biking or relaxing. The viewpoints on the southern and western side of the Usambara are well known for the spectacular views of the plains of Mkomazi and Handeni. Kilimanjaro can be seen on the horizon and at the end of the day the sunset turns the area into a tremendous pallet of unforgettable colors.
The Usambara Mountains, located in northeastern Tanzania, are among the few regions in East Africa where tropical forests remain largely intact. These ancient forests are of immense ecological value and are considered a global biodiversity hotspot. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the wide range of species found here, including the Usambara eagle-owl, Usambara akalat, Usambara weaver, and even the African violet (a unique flowering plant). Other notable bird sightings may include the Mountain buzzard, Crowned eagle, Eastern bronze-naped pigeon, Lemon dove, Dusky turtle dove, and the colorful Hartlaub’s turaco.
The Usambara Mountains, located in northeastern Tanzania, are among the few regions in East Africa where tropical forests remain largely intact. These ancient forests are of immense ecological value and are considered a global biodiversity hotspot. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the wide range of species found here, including the Usambara eagle-owl, Usambara akalat, Usambara weaver, and even the African violet (a unique flowering plant). Other notable bird sightings may include the Mountain buzzard, Crowned eagle, Eastern bronze-naped pigeon, Lemon dove, Dusky turtle dove, and the colorful Hartlaub’s turaco.
Home to over 3,000 plant species and more than 600 varieties of trees, the Usambara Mountains are a treasure trove for botanists, ecologists, and nature enthusiasts. Many of these species are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. This exceptional biodiversity draws researchers and travelers interested in observing native trees, wildflowers, birds, and butterflies in their natural habitats.
A guided hike through the Usambara Mountains offers not only scenic beauty but also rich cultural encounters. As you explore forest trails, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Mkomazi plains, and on clear days, even Mount Kilimanjaro may appear on the horizon. The journey is enriched by interactions with warm and welcoming local communities, whose friendliness leaves a lasting impression.
Popular hiking options include a trek to Irente Viewpoint, which offers a breathtaking vista of Mazinde village, sitting nearly 1,000 meters below, with expansive views of the Maasai plains. Another scenic walk leads through Jaegertal, known for its fertile lands and a local fruit tree nursery where visitors can learn about fruit propagation. For butterfly lovers, the “Growing Rock” trail from Soni to Kwamongo Mountain provides not only spectacular panoramas over Lushoto, Soni, and the Handeni plains, but also a chance to spot numerous butterfly species along the way.
From Tanga: Approximately 3 hours (110 km)
From Moshi: Around 6 hours
From Arusha: Roughly 8 hours
East Usambara – Magoroto Forest Estate (Silver-rated)
West Usambara – Mambo View Point (Silver-rated)
“I’m Ramsons, and I’ve been guiding visitors through the Usambara Mountains for over 9 years. People come here to hike through pristine forests and are often amazed by the sweeping views and natural serenity this region offers.”
The Usambara Mountains enjoy a pleasant climate throughout the year. However, from March to May, heavy rains can make trails slippery and difficult to navigate. For the best trekking conditions and clear views, plan your visit between June and October, just after the rainy season.
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