5 Days Usambara Mountains Trek
5 Days Usambara Mountains Trek Overview
Tanzania might be well-known for its majestic stand-alone mountains, but it also boasts stunning mountain ranges, as well.
The Usambaras, situated in Southeastern Tanzania, are part of the larger Eastern Arc mountains that stretch like a belt across the center of Tanzania, starting in Kenya and ending just before the border to Zambia.
The impressive peaks that make up this range are crowned in lush forests and are home to several endemic plants and animals, including a special type of horned chameleon. Unlike warm, tropical rainforests, these unique forests are ‘cloud rainforests’, fed by clouds. The green canopy is usually shorter, and the climate is cooler, as well, due to the high elevation.
Treks in the Usambaras are amazing hikes in cloud rainforests, and rewarded with mesmerizing scenery, waterfalls and breathtaking sunsets.
5 Days Usambaras Trekking Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha / Moshi to Lushoto
DRIVING DAY
You’ll depart in the morning, driving through beautiful landscapes toward Lushoto. On clear days, you can see Mount Kilimanjaro during the drive.
You’ll pass along the Pare Mountains and through the Same area as you enter the Tanga region.
Lunch along the way.
Arrive in Lushoto in the late afternoon and meet the local guide, native to the Usbamara region, who will be leading your treks the following days.
Overnight at a comfortable lodge with a great view.
{Lunch, Dinner and Overnight included}
This route passes just outside of Mkomazi National Park. Contact Us, or design a custom safari to include a safari game drive or Rhino Sanctuary visit with this trek.
Day 2: Kisasa Waterfalls and Irente Viewpoint
After breakfast, walk through the cute town of Lushoto, admiring the German-inspired buildings and the fresh fruits for sale along the roadside, as you make your way to the trail head for Kisasa Waterfalls.
You’ll descend approximately 100 meters to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch or even wade in the cool water.
After, you’ll climb back up and make your way to Irente Farm by hiking (7 km), or drive a portion of the way if you prefer.
Upon reaching Irente Farm Lodge, take the short but challenging hike to the viewpoint in time for a spectacular sunset.
Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
Approx: 3-5 hours
Hike Through: Local villages, Montane Forest.
{Full Board}
Day 3: Irente Farm Lodge to Magamba Forest
After breakfast, (and maybe a tour of the lodge and neighboring dairy farm) begin the trek through Magamba Forest Reserve.
This important Forest is a biodiversity hot-spot and the largest forest reserve within the Usambaras. It is home to endemic species, including the two-horned chameleon, and has important water cachements for the region, as well.
Return to Irente Farm Lodge for overnight.
Distance: 9 miles / 15 km
Approx: 5-7 hours
Hike Through: Local villages, Cloud Rainforest.
{Full Board}
Day 4: Irente Farm Lodge to Shegayu Peak
You’ll start the morning with a drive to your accommodations, Mambo Viewpoint Eco Lodge, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes and forest-lined roads.
After lunch, you’ll enter the forest reserve and climb to the highest point in the area; Shegayu Peak.
The 7 km trek to Shegayu Peak (2,200 m/ 7200 ft) is approximately 2 hours up, and 1 hour return, if starting from the entrance to the forest reserve.
Dinner and Overnight at Mambo View Lodge.
Elevation of Shegayu Peak: 2,000 meters / 7200 ft
Distance: 8 miles / 5 km
Approx: 3 hours
Hike Through: Forest Reserve and Cloud Rainforest.
{Full Board}
Day 5: Mtae Viewpoint, Return to Moshi/Arusha
Enjoy a hot breakfast and a morning hike to Mtae Viewpoint.
After a short drive from the lodge, Mtae Viewpoint takes approximately 2 hours, round trip. It is a beautiful hike through lush cloud rainforest and a great end to your 5-day trek in the Usambaras.
Return to your vehicle and begin the 5-hr drive back to Moshi/Arusha.
Option to add a safari drive through Mkomazi National Park, and overnight within the park. Please contact us for more information.
— End of Tour
{Half Board, Breakfast Lunch and Transport)
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