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There are no hotels or lodges here. This is a National Park with no roads. This
park is a series of mountain rangers and interlocking valleys and only experienced
hikers can mange this difficult terrain. These mountains are pristine and largely
untouched by humans.
The Udzungwa Mountains National park was created primarily for the protection of
flora rather than fauna. The park was registered in 1992 and is the first of its
kind in Tanzania. This park is a series of mountain rangers and interlocking
valleys - ranging from the top of the Kilombero Valley at 300 meters above sea level
to peaks of around 2,570 meters above sea level. Only experienced hikers can mange
this difficult train. Making these mountains pristine and largely untouched by
humans.
The Lumeno trail is 65km long and follows the path of the Lumeno River, which is
sourced in the heart of these mountains. There are three campsites along the trail
that are roughly spaced at 7 to 8 hour walk intervals. They are basic campsites.
Remember in Africa basic means just that... basic and simply a peace of ground cleared
for your tents. It usually takes three to four days to complete this hike.
The trail passes through three types of vegetation: Miombo Woodland, Grassland and
forest. Some of the wildlife you may see on this trail is the, red colobus & black
and white colubus monkeys, yellow baboon, sykes monkey, sanje mangabey, bushbuck,
waterbuck, bush pig, buffalo, elephant and red duikers.
Many birds species are common along this trail including Pel's fishing owl, which is
an indicator of how rich the river is in fish. There are river rapids along this
trail with jumping fish and diving otters.
We recommend hiking of this trail to be done in the dry season 'June to November'
as in the rainy season the river becomes swollen and turbulent making the river
dangerous to cross. The flooding can also hide crocodiles, which can be a greater
danger than the swollen river.
This is not an experience for the faint hearted, however, if you love the wilderness
this is an experience not to be missed.
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