Usambara Mountains

photo by Karen Kim

Description: Due to the physical isolation and the remarkable climatological stability of this area over the last 40 million years, there is exceptional biodiversity and literally there are thousands of plant and animal species that are not found anywhere else on earth. Bird watching is especially rewarding and the views from the mountaintops stretch over the Masai Steppe and, on a clear day, as far as the Indian Ocean. While not on most safari itineraries, the Usambara Mountains provide one of the friendliest and most scenic areas of Tanzania. Most people stay in Lushoto where the altitude keeps the weather cool and there is a nice selection of budget and mid-range hotels. The Usambara Mountains near Lushoto are not actually part of a reserve or national park and the area is densely populated.

Location: Lushoto is approximately half-way between Dar es Salaam and Moshi, reachable only by an approximately 4-hour drive from either.

Things 2 Do: Cultural visits, mountain hiking

Time: Plan to spend from a half-day to 4 days. Paths get muddy during the rainy seasons.

Animals: An impressive variety of small animals and birds.

Accommodations

$
Irente View Cliff Lodge
Lawns Hotel
Muller’s Mountain Lodge

$$
Eddie’s Lodge

$$$$
Babu’s Camp