Uluguru Mountains (Birding Area & Trekking)

The Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve, spanning 24,115 hectares, lies within the Morogoro and Mvomero Districts of Tanzania, forming the heart of the renowned Eastern Arc Mountains. This ancient mountain range is globally recognized as one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots, boasting extraordinary ecological significance and endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. Towering over the landscape, the reserve features four prominent peaks, including Lukwangule (2,656m), Kimhandu (2,633m), Lupanga (2,138m), and Bondwa (2,100m), each offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. As a critical conservation area, the Uluguru Mountains serve as a vital water catchment, sustaining both local communities and vast wildlife habitats, making it a treasure trove for researchers, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Endemic Species found in the Uluguru Mountains

The Uluguru Mountains are home to some of the world’s rarest and most unique bird species, with four found nowhere else: the Uluguru Greenbul, Uluguru Bushshrike, Loveridge’s Sunbird, and Winifred’s Warbler. These birds are strictly endemic to the Uluguru, highlighting the region’s exceptional biodiversity.

Additionally, the Uluguru boasts around 135 plant species that are endemic to the area, further solidifying its status as one of Africa’s most botanically unique regions. Other remarkable species, such as the White-winged Apalis, the Uluguru race of the Bar-throated Apalis, Livingstone’s Turaco, Dark Batis, and Bertram’s Weaver, can also be found here but are present across other parts of the Eastern Arc Mountains.

Climate.

The climate of the Uluguru Mountains is characterized by a cool and humid environment, influenced by its elevation and dense forest cover. Temperatures typically range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F), with higher elevations experiencing cooler conditions. The mountains receive annual rainfall between 1,200mm and 3,000mm, with the heaviest rains occurring from March to May and a secondary wet season from November to December. Humidity levels remain high throughout the year, often exceeding 80%, contributing to the lush, evergreen forests that support the region’s rich biodiversity.

Best Time to Visit Uluguru Mountains.

The best time is during the dry season from June to October; however, January to March is also great. you should avoid April to May, which is the rainy season.

How to Get There.

Reaching the Uluguru Mountains is relatively easy, with Morogoro town serving as the main gateway. By road, travelers can take a bus or private vehicle from Dar es Salaam (approximately 190 km, 3–4 hours) via the well-paved Morogoro Highway.

Alternatively, visitors can travel by the Tanzania Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro, which offers a faster and more comfortable journey of about 2 hours. From Morogoro town, local transport such as motorcycles (boda-bodas), taxis, or hiking guides can take visitors to various entry points, including Bondwa, Lupanga, and Lukwangule peaks.

For international visitors, the nearest airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, where they can arrange private transfers, buses, or SGR trains to Morogoro.

The reserve is accessible year-round, though the best hiking conditions are during the dry seasons (June–October and January–February).