6 Days Usambara Mountains &
Amani Nature Reserve

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Highlights

The Usambara Mountains are one of Tanzania’s secret treasures. Due to the pleasant high altitude climate, the mountains were a popular settlement area during the German colonial period, but have been forgotten over time.
Today, this region can be explored on beautiful hikes away from the large tourist crowds. Hidden waterfalls, beautifully situated viewpoints with a view of the dry plains all the way to the coast and a rich flora and fauna attract visitors.
The most famous representative is probably the Usambara violet, which is also popular here, but most of the other species are little known and only occur in this region. And new discoveries never stop.
This region is therefore often referred to as the ‘African Galapagos in the clouds’. In the second part of your trip, you will visit the Amani Nature Reserve in the East Usambara Mountains, which protects the last remaining stocks of the coastal mountain rainforest.

ITINERARY

In the morning, your driver will pick you up from your accomodationl in Moshi. The journey start, you pass the Pare Mountains and the seemingly endless Maasai dry savannah. The Pare Mountains, together with the Usambara Mountains, form part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, which stretch from the famous Kilimanjaro to the coastal foreland of Tanga. The turnoff to the Usambara Mountains is shortly after the town of Mombo, a lively transfer point for locals and tourists who use the bus connection to the south. A winding road now leads up into the mountains. Past impressive rock formations and vertical embankments, the road winds in tight curves to Lushoto, in the west of the Usambara Mountains. The town was once founded as Wilhelmstal during the German colonial period. 
 
Accommodation: Lodge in the Mountain
Meals: Lunchbox, Dinner
After breakfast you start your hike to the Mazumbai Forest Reserve, a paradise for bird lovers. From a mountain ridge you can enjoy the view over the forests and have the opportunity to come into contact with local farmers and locals. The forest area is home to the black and white colobus monkeys and an impressive variety of species awaits you.
 
Accommodation: Guesthouse 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunchbox, Dinner
Today you will go on another hike in the original forest area. There is the option of climbing the summit. After lunch, you can hike to the village of Mgwashi and visit the local farmers on the tea plantations.
 
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunchbox, Dinner
In the morning, you will hike through the Mazumbai forest one last time, accompanied by the sounds of the numerous birds, until you finally reach the small valley of the Lwengera River.
Your driver will already be waiting for you there and together you will drive to the Amani Nature Reserve, which is located in the Eastern Usambaras. The reserve is located on the site of the former ‘Biological-Agricultural Institute’, which was built in the German colonial era around 1900. At that time, a botanical garden was also set up there. Later parts of the region were deforested to make room for large tea-growing areas.
It was 1997 that the area was again placed under protection and declared a nature reserve. The area is now known worldwide for its great biodiversity. Every year, numerous new animal and plant species are discovered, many of which are endemic, meaning they only occur in this region. This is why the area is often referred to as the ‘African Galapagos’. 
 
Accommodation: Guesthouse 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunchbox, Dinner
The day is at your disposal to explore the Amani Nature Reserve. From the high plateau you have a breathtaking view of the Eastern Usambara Mountains, which are part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. Two large waterfalls lure hikers with cool, clear water. There are several picnic areas that invite you to linger and where you can recover from the hike. You can explore the rich flora and fauna of the reserve on various signposted hiking trails. 
 
Accommodation: Guesthouse 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunchbox, Dinner
After breakfast it’s time to say goodbye to this paradise.
You hike to the village of Muheza, where the driver is already waiting for you. You drive back to Moshi. Alternatively, you have the option of continuing to the northern Swahili coast, to Pangani.
 
Meals: Breakfast
Some accommodations along the hiking routes may have basic facilities, and we will make sure to provide you with all the necessary information to set the right expectations.
 
If you have any specific preferences or requirements regarding accommodation standards, please let us know so we can tailor the arrangements accordingly. 
 
Your comfort and satisfaction are important to us, and we will do our best to ensure a pleasant experience throughout your trip.
If you’re interested in adding a beach break to your itinerary, please let us know and we can help arrange everything for you.
Enjoy the best of Tanzania’s natural beauty with a combination of hiking, safari, and beach relaxation with us!

The Usambara Mountains offer cool temperatures, lush rainforests, and varied terrain. To fully enjoy your Usambara Mountains Trek, please pack light but smart.

 
Essential Hiking Gear

  • Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots

  • Comfortable hiking socks (3–5 pairs)

  • Lightweight daypack (20–30 liters)

  • Rain jacket / poncho (rain possible year-round)

  • Warm fleece or light jacket (cool evenings & mornings)

  • Hiking trousers / quick-dry pants

  • Breathable hiking shirts (long & short sleeve)

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Trekking poles (optional but recommended)

  • Headlamp or flashlight (with spare batteries)

Clothing for Evenings & Villages

  • Casual evening clothes

  • Long trousers / long skirt (for village visits & cultural respect)

  • Lightweight sweater

  • Comfortable sandals or camp shoes

  • Sleepwear

 

Personal Items & Toiletries

  • Small towel (quick-dry recommended)

  • Toiletries & personal hygiene items

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

  • Lip balm

  • Insect repellent (with DEET recommended)

  • Hand sanitizer / wet wipes

  • Personal medications

 

Health & Safety

  • Basic first aid kit (plasters, pain relief, blister care)

  • Rehydration salts / electrolytes

  • Anti-diarrhea medication

  • Motion sickness tablets (if needed)

 

Documents & Money

  • Passport (copy recommended)

  • Travel insurance details

  • Some cash (Tanzanian Shillings) for tips & personal expenses

  • Credit card (limited use in rural areas)

 

Optional but Recommended

  • Camera or smartphone

  • Power bank / extra batteries

  • Binoculars (for birds & wildlife)

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Lightweight scarf or buff

  • Notebook or journal

 

What Not to Bring

  • Heavy suitcases (soft duffel bags are best)

  • Valuable jewelry

  • Excess luggage

  • Plastic bags (restricted in Tanzania)

 

Luggage Note

  • Soft bags or backpacks only (preferred for transfers & storage)

  • Porters are optional and available on request

 

Additional Advice

  • Pack light – laundry services are limited

  • Neutral-colored clothing is best for wildlife viewing

  • Respect local customs by dressing modestly in village

WHAT'S INCLUDED

  • Transportation, accommodation and meals as described
  • Guided hikes in the Usambara Mountains and Amani Nature Reserve as described in the tour itinerary
  • Experienced English speaking guide
  • All required park and entrance fees as well as local village fees

NOT INCLUDED

  • Meals and drinks not mentioned
  • Optional excursions and activities
  • Personal expenses, tips

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