About This Tour
This itinerary focuses on the “Eastern Arc Mountains,” a global biodiversity hotspot. You will explore the ancient coastal forests of Pugu, the lush tropical rainforests of Amani, the dramatic peaks of the Usambaras, and the mist-covered Uluguru mountains.
08:00: Pick up from Dar. Drive to Pugu-Kazimzumbwi Nature Forest.
10:00: Guided hike to the Bat Caves and the bamboo forest.
13:00: Picnic lunch overlooking the Dar Es Salaam skyline.
15:00: Birdwatching and visit to the local worship sites.
17:00: Check-in at a lodge in Dar or eco-camp in Pugu.
07:00: Long scenic drive North toward the East Usambara Mountains.
14:00: Arrival at Amani Nature Forest Reserve.
16:00: Evening walk to the botanical garden (one of the oldest in Africa) to spot the Amani Sunbird.
08:30: Full day trekking in Amani. Search for endemic chameleons and rare African Violets.
12:30: Bush lunch near a waterfall.
15:30: Visit the local tea estates bordering the forest.
19:00: Night walk to see nocturnal tree hyraxes and owls.
08:00: Drive from the East to the West Usambara Mountains (Lushoto).
13:00: Lunch in Lushoto town.
15:00: Hike to Irente Viewpoint for a breathtaking view of the Maasai Steppe 1,000m below.
- 08:00: Explore the Magamba Forest Reserve, home to the Black and White Colobus monkeys.
- 12:00: Drive South toward Morogoro, the gateway to the Ulugurus.
- 18:00: Check-in at a lodge at the base of the mountains.
- 08:00: Steep hike into the Uluguru Forest Reserve.
- 11:00: Visit the Choma waterfalls and interact with the local Luguru people.
- 14:00: Birding in the high-altitude primary forest.
- 17:00: Return to Morogoro for the final evening.
- 08:00: Drive back toward Dar.
- 11:00: Short stop at Vikindu Forest Reserve for a final nature walk.
- 14:00: Farewell lunch in Dar Es Salaam.
- 16:00: Airport or hotel drop-off.
Included/Exclude
The Cost Includes
- Transport: Private 4x4 Safari vehicle with experienced driver.
- Fees: All Tanzania Forest Service (TFS) entry and conservation fees.
- Expertise: Specialized forest/botanical guides in each reserve.
- Meals: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Drinking Water: 2L per person per day.
- Gear: Walking sticks provided for steep mountain treks.
The Cost Excludes
- Tips: Suggested $15 per day for the main driver-guide.
- Kilimanjaro/Kitulo Supplement: These are National Parks (TANAPA) and require a significant price increase if added (approx. $150–$300 extra per day).
- Alcoholic drinks.
- Laundry services.
