The Usambara mountains situated in the northeastern part of Tanzania are known for their cool lovely climate, stunning viewpoints, wide panoramas, winding pathways, attractive vegetation, and productive slopes favored in the colonial era, the area is rich in history making it one of Tanzania’s highlights. These range mountains are part of the ancient eastern Arc chain which stretches in a broken curve from the Taita hill in south Kenya to the southern highlands in Tanzania.
The range is accessible from the towns of lushoto in the west and Amani in the east, split into two sub ranges the west Usambara and the east Usambara. The east is close to the coast receiving more rainfall and it is smaller than the west
Travelers go to the Usambara to enjoy its nature, relax and hike however from the main center of visitors the lushoto town you can walk through the arboretum, look at old colonial buildings, stop at the herbarium which houses thousands of pressed plants dating back to the colonial era (1886-1916)
These mountains are a stop you wouldn’t want to miss if you are out to explore Tanzania, 2 or 3 days are adequate you can spend more if you are looking to cover places of interest on the east Usambara
Reasons to hike the Usambara mountains:
These mountain ranges are one of the most favored hike locations in Tanzania with their beauty and a relatively lower budget in comparison to Mount Kilimanjaro, mount Meru & mount oldonyo Lengai, it is a moderate hike and suitable for visitors of wide fitness levels. Here are other reasons why you should hike the Usambara.
- Views:
Is it even a great hike if you won’t be amazed by the views? hiking the Usambara mountains will take you through sweeping hills, valleys, farmland, and villages and a rewarding view from the top.
- Culture:
The Usambara is remotely located so you’ll get to see a lot more about Tanzanian people and how those who are far from the major cities live, you will experience life more dependent on your environment
- Relaxation:
Even though it’s a three-day to four-day hike and you’ll cover 15-20km (10-15 miles) every day, it’s less challenging. There are some brief uphill sections. The hike relaxing as it is a chance to get away from civilization and experience a few days in the countryside.
- Irente viewpoint in Usambara mountains:
From Lushoto, hike to this outlook for remarkable views of the village of Mazinde and the Maasai plains almost 1000 meters below. Eat lunch at the Irente Biodiversity Farm in their beautiful flower garden
- Magamba rainforest in the Usambara mountains:
Walk through villages and farmland to the lavish rainforest where you can see black-and-white Colobus monkeys, colorful butterflies, and two-horned chameleons.
- Usambara flora and fauna (plants and animals):
The vegetation at Usambara is green and amazing to look at, walking through the farmland and learning a lot about the vegetation of the area is a great experience
Things you can do at Usambara mountains:
- Hiking
- Camping
- Mountain biking
- Walking safari
- Visiting waterfalls
- You can also head to east Usambara to magoroto forest or Muheza
Best time to hike the Usambara Mountain:
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.
Getting to Usambara:
You can hire a private vehicle or take a bus heading to lushoto which is a small town just before the mountains.
