Usambara Mountains 

The Usambaras are the easternmost range of the Eastern Arc Mountains, stretching about 90 km long and 30–50 km wide in Tanga Region, split into the West and East Usambaras

Geological age: Formed nearly 2 million years ago, with rocks up to 600 million years old, making them one of Africa’s oldest mountain ranges

Biodiversity Hotspot

Tropical rainforests & cloud forest: Home to virgin forests with high levels of biodiversity and endemism

Flora: Over 3,000 plant species, including 600 tree species. Notables include the African violet (Saintpaulia) and orchids endemic to the Eastern Arc

Fauna: A birding paradise—with over 350–500 bird species, including the Usambara eagle-owl, akalat, weaver, turacos, and mountain buzzard

Wildlife: While not big-game territory, expect colobus and vervet monkeys, bush pigs, civets, chameleons (including endemic two-horned species), and small forest mammals .

Best Times & Access

Access: Reached via Lushoto (west Usambaras) or Amani Nature Reserve (east Usambaras near Muheza)

When to visit: Optimal hiking conditions are June–October and December–February. Avoid the muddy rainy seasons (March–May, November)

Activities & Trails

Hiking & Trekking

Irente Viewpoint: A popular 2‑hr hike from Lushoto, offering sweeping views over rainforest, Maasai plains, and beyond

Magamba Trail: Heads through forest to Kigula peak (~1,840 m), with colobus monkeys and WWI-era caves

Mkuzi Falls: Forest trek to scenic waterfalls and colobus sightings

Mtae Circuit: Multi-day (3–4 days, ~55 km) trek from Lushoto through villages, forests, waterfalls, and highland viewpoints

East Usambara trail: From Amani Reserve via Magoroto Reserve to Lake Magoroto—will include botanical gardens, Chemka waterfall, and forest lake scenery

Birdwatching & Nature Walks

Spot endemic and rare species, explore remote forest reserves like Mazumbai and Shagayu, and enjoy botany-rich morning hikes

Cultural Visits

Explore Shambaa villages, colonial-era German houses, local markets, pottery workshops, and interact with hospitable rural communities on farm treks.
The Usambara Mountains are an understated jewel of Tanzania—offering hilltop panoramas, forested trails, rich culture, and biodiversity, all within a cooler climate retreat.