The Usambara Mountains are one of Tanzania’s undiscovered treasures, making them a true paradise for nature and hiking enthusiasts. These lush green mountains offer a cool climate, ideal for walks and trekking. However, one of the best reasons to explore the Usambara Mountains is the breathtaking scenery. Everywhere you look, you’ll find rolling hills, towering peaks, deep valleys, farmland, picturesque villages, colorful markets, and sprawling plantations.
The Usambara Mountains offer something for everyone adventurers, nature lovers, andculture enthusiasts alike. Numerous trails, suitable for hiking and mountain biking, wind through tropical forests, cultivated fields, and small villages with lively markets, leading to hidden waterfalls and stunning viewpoints.
The dense Magamba Forest is one of the most untouched parts of the region and plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. Its rich biodiversity includes towering ancient trees, climbing plants, ferns, and lichens, providing a habitat for blackandwhite colobus monkeys, bush pigs, chameleons, lizards, snakes, millipedes, and a remarkable variety of bird species.
Beyond its natural beauty, the Usambara Mountains also offer a glimpse into local life. Visitors can learn about traditional brickmaking, local beer brewing, and honey production. The welcoming and hospitable people make it easy to connect with the culture and community
The most popular trek in the Usambara Mountains is the route from Lushoto to Mtae, which can
be completed in three or four days. If opting for a threeday hike, you either face a very long first
day (about 26 km) or take a bus or motorbike for part of the journey. Many hikers find the four
day trek sufficiently challenging.
Starting from Lushoto, you pass by former German colonial buildings before heading towards the forest. You’ll walk through the Jagertal Valley, leaving maize fields behind. In the forest, you may spot monkeys in the trees and even observe a chameleon up close. The Usambara Mountains are home to various chameleon species, with the twohorned variety being the most common.
After a gentle climb through the forest, you’ll pass through small villages where children eagerly greet you. A steep final ascent brings you to Magamba, marking the halfway point of the day’s hike. Here, you can enjoy fresh fruit by the roadside before continuing along a dirt path past maize fields. Women can be seen washing clothes in the river, while others tend to their fields. A last uphill climb through the forest leads through villages and past churches before descending towards the first overnight stop.
The second day is by far the most demanding. The 18kilometer trek features continuous ascents and descents. The trail starts with a gradual incline through the rainforest before
becoming steeper, eventually reaching over 2,000 meters in elevation. The forest provides
welcome shade, but there is little to no viewpoint at the top. However, as you descend, the
spectacular landscape slowly unfolds before you. Although the uneven terrain requires careful footing, it’s worth pausing now and then to soak in the breathtaking views. After reaching a high point, you descend once again into small villages, where children enthusiastically welcome you. Initially shy, they soon become excited to pose for
photos and even accompany you for a while. A final uphill climb leads towards Lukosi. Without the forest’s shade, the sun makes this ascent even more challenging. The last few kilometers to Lukosi are downhill, but accommodation options here are limited, and some places have a poor reputation.
After the previous day’s exertion, there’s little time to rest. After a short descent into the village,
the trail immediately ascends again. Within 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll reach the highest point of the
day, completing the toughest part of the trek.
Once again, the hike offers stunning views of the Usambara Mountains’ peaks and valleys. The
second half of the journey is a gentle descent through fields and meadows. Along the narrow
paths, you’ll encounter women carrying firewood on their heads and children eagerly greeting
passing hikers. The final stretch to Rangwi is flat, leading through farmlands. The night is spent
in a monastery, where you’ll also find accommodation.
The final day offers some of the best views of the entire trek! After a short ascent behind
Rangwi, the trail winds through a picturesque valley. From higher ground, you can look down
upon the valley before walking right through its heart. Before the next climb, you pass by a small
oasis a truly magical spot! The trail then follows a ridge along a broad, redsand path. From here, you’re rewarded with spectacular views of the valley, lakes, and the eastern Usambara Mountains in the distance. Unfortunately, weather conditions can vary. While the first three days may be sunny, the finalday can sometimes bring thick fog, obscuring the scenery.
Even with the mist, the hike has a mystical feel, as clouds roll through the landscape,
occasionally offering brief glimpses of the surroundings.
The second half of the trek consists of more uphill sections, winding through several villages.
After a while, you’ll reach an incredible viewpoint. Standing atop the rock, you’ll have a 270
degree panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes—an unforgettable
sight!
The highlight of the hike is the stay at Mambo View Point Eco Lodge. This lodge offers a
range of accommodations, including cottages, luxury tents, dormitories, and campsites. The
breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind after the
challenging yet rewarding trek through the Usambara Mountains.
