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.
Within the Usambara region is Amani Reserves. This is one of Tanzania’s most attractive yet unvisited destinations, with wonderful scenery, impressive flora and fauna, and one of Africa’s largest botanical gardens. There are also enough hiking trails to keep one busy for weeks. This is a birdwatchers dreamland with 335 recorded species. There are few large mammals but several primates can be spotted. This is a great place for hikers and for those who want to get off the beaten path. Like the Usambara Mountains, this is a great place to spend a few days, have a great time, and save money on the budget.
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, Hiking, Biking
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. Amani Reserves has 335 recorded bird species and several primates.
Accommodations
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Irente View Cliff Lodge
Lawns Hotel
Muller’s Mountain Lodge
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Babu’s Camp
“Karen was very helpful in planning our trip and we could not have asked for it to turn out any better. Going to Africa on a Safari had been on my bucket list since I was in high school. And they went over and above to make my dream come true. It was the most amazing trip I have ever been on. I love the way they set up our campsites from primitive to luxury. I loved every camp we went too. The first and second was a little scary from time to time hearing the roaring, screaming and chatting throughout the night from the elephants, lions, zebras and hyenas. I would not have changed one thing about the trip. And then when we got to Zanzibar at The Baraza Resort it was absolutely beautiful and the staff was over the top very friendly and was there to take care of us the entire trip. We felt like kings and queens. We went into Stone Town one day and really enjoyed that tour, and of course shopping. I would definitely recommend them for your trip to Tanzania.”