Mufindi farm (Birding Area)

In Tanzania’s scenic Southern Highlands, the Mufindi Highlands offer a refreshing escape into a world of cool mountain air, rolling green hills, and timeless tranquility. Often referred to as the “Home of Tea Plantations,” this lush region is adorned with vibrant tea fields and dotted with wildflowers, creating postcard-perfect landscapes at every turn. Far from the heat and dust of the safari trails, Mufindi invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and soak in the serenity of nature. Whether you’re wandering through misty forests, sipping fresh local tea, or simply unwinding in the quiet of the highlands, this peaceful retreat promises a soulful connection to Tanzania’s softer side.

Birds in Mufindi.

The Mufindi Highlands are a hidden gem for bird lovers, home to unique and rare species found nowhere else in Tanzania. Key highlights include the elusive Kipengere Seedeater, the vibrant Iringa Akalat, and the elegant Chapin’s Apalis. Birdwatchers may also spot the dazzling Forest Double-collared Sunbird flitting through the trees or the distinctive Groundscraper Thrush foraging on open ground. With its cool climate and rich montane forests, Mufindi offers a rewarding and peaceful birding experience in a truly special setting.

Best Time to Visit Mufindi.

The best time to visit Mufindi is during the dry season from June to October, when the weather is cool, clear, and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and exploring tea plantations. The landscape remains lush from earlier rains, and the cooler highland temperatures offer a refreshing escape from Tanzania’s heat. While the rainy season from March to May brings beautiful greenery and fewer crowds, it can make roads and trails muddy, ideal for those seeking solitude and misty, poetic mornings.

How To Get to Mufindi.

To get to Mufindi, the most common route is by road from Iringa, which is about 100 km south (approximately 2 to 3 hours by car). You can fly into Iringa Airport (Nduli Airport) from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar using a local airline like Auric Air or Air Tanzania, then continue by road. Alternatively, for those coming from Mbeya or Ruaha National Park, it’s also accessible by road, though longer. The roads are generally passable year-round, but a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.