Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) Agency
Ecotourism Destinations
Enjoy Life in Nature
Vikindu Forest Reserve covers an area of 1,710Ha of which all are Natural Forest. Vikindu Forest Reserve (VFR) is the part of coastal forest in coast region. The VFR vegetation is of the Coastal Forests type which is globally important for their biological values and nationally important for catchment values providing water to millions of Tanzanians. The VFR has a high level of endemism for both plants and animals species with some of these species being threatened to extinction due to human activities.
Like many other natural forests in Tanzania, VFR protection was the main activity carried out throughout the years. Sometimes Action/Annual Plan of Operation (APO) were prepared by relying on Forest Act and Forest Policy to guide the implementation of activities but in most cases plan and implementation of management activities were done depending on availability of fund from TFS Eastern Zone, DFM (Mkuranga) WCST and WWF.
Vikindu Forest reserve was decleared as forest reserve by declaration order Cap. 132 of 1947, p 1347; superseded by Cap. 389- supp.59 of 1959, p. 59. Gazetted during the German administration – original map RE/K/4/1. Its status was productive forest Reserve. Vikindu Forest Reserve is under Tanzania Forest Services, The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism. The management of this reserve is vested to the District Forest Conservator who is directly responsible to the Zonal Commander who reports to Conservation Commissioner for Tanzania Forest Services
LOCATION AND ACCESS
Vikindu Forest Reserve is located in Mkuranga District, Coast region, between the villages namely Vikindu and KiparaMpakani. By coordinate the forest is locatedbetween 534000 to 528000 Eastings and 9225000’ to 9232000Northings (Grid ref: 6057’S- 7000’S, 39015’E – 39018’E)
Vikindu FR is located on relatively flat land between 40- 80 m a.s.l., approximately 15 km inland from the Indian ocean, approximately 17km south of Dar esSalaamon the main Road to Kilwa.
There is all weather access by the main tarmac Dar es Salaam to Kilwa Road (which forms part of the eastern boundary of the forests reserve). The village of Vikindu (on the main road) lies to the immediate south of the forest reserve.
VISITORS ATTRACTIONS
Vikindu FR is richin bothflora and Fauna including: Afzelia, Julbenadia, Brachestigia, Adansoniadigitata and Combretum species and fauna including: Dikdik, black butterflies,whitecolabus, Antelopes, wild pigs python, butterflies, and beetles.
ACCOMMODATION
VFR offers camping services to visitors in terms of hiring tents and providing camping sites to visitors who come with their tents.We have 2 camping sites (Mkangazi Camping Site,Bwawani camping site)and 1 resting banda.
The Utete Spring Reservoir is located in Utete town, Rufiji District, Coast Province. The source is located on the Rufiji River and between the Utete and Katundu forests on the east side and covers an area of 2,346 Acres (equivalent) and 938.4 ha). This park with GN Cap 132 (1351) (refer to appendix number 1 copy of GN) where it was isolated and started to be preserved in 1930 by the colonists as part of tourism due to the presence of hot springs.
Since the country gained independence this area has not been taken over or put in place by any strategy to develop or preserve it and lead the community to invade it with social activities such as establishing permanent settlements, agriculture, livestock grazing and access to water and bathing water services these help to cure some diseases.
Also since the establishment of the Tanzania Forest Service Agency in 2011, the TFS Rufiji District Office has not taken or put in place any strategy to manage and develop this area as it appeared to have a ownership dispute.
ATTRACTIONS
ATTRACTIONS Utete Hot spring Nature Forest reserve is endowed with both Natural and Cultural resources such as:
· Utete Hot spring
· Camping sites
· Conference hall.
INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Tourism business shows a positive trend in Utete Hot spring, there are number of investment opportunities within and around Utete Hot spring Nature Forest Reserve. Investors are welcomed to invest in accommodation (camping services and eco lodges) and cuisine services (restaurants). These sites offer investment opportunities in the following areas:
MEALS AND ACCOMODATION
Currently there are limited meals and accommodation services in Utete Hot spring therefore; this area offers a substantial opportunity for investment. The management of Utete Hot spring invites both foreign and local investors to invest inside and outside the reserve in terms of picnic lunch, picnic sites, camp sites and eco-lodges especially at Rufiji District area and in other areas. Issues of EIA and carrying capacity are highly regarded in Utete before, during and after investment with regard to national laws and policies dealing with environmental protection.
TRANSPORT.
In terms of transportation the route is quite good until our tourist area for the whole year; we as an institution have not yet started providing transportation services. Because there are passenger cars making its way from Utete District to Dar es Salaam, Lindi and other southern regions passing through our entrance gate to the tourist area, there are also small cars that you can rent to get you easily to our tourist area.
ECOTOURISM FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES
The reserve head office offers camping and picnics sites, hiring of tents and transportation services for tourists. Tourism activities which can be performed inside the reserve includes:-camping, hot spring watching, walking, fishing, photography and surveying.
Rau forest reserve is located close to Moshi town about 2km to reach entry gate. The forest reserve connects you with nature and is blessed with many attractions and services including varieties of flora and fauna species found inside the closed canopy forest, huge tree and the biggest tree in East Africa (mvule) which drives large numbers of visitors within and outside of the country, unique and endemic trees such as Oxystigma Msoo, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, dik dik, milk spring water, birds, butterflies, rice fields adjacent of the forest which makes forest more attractive and picnic site found in the Rau forest reserve. Silently walking in the forest makes you lose your mind and find your soul at the same time hear your breathing rates only. Rau forest reserve acts as a fuel to the tourists who are climbing Mt.Kilimanjaro.
TOURISM ATTRACTIONS
Rau forest reserve has 71 variety of tree species including the unique and endemic trees like Oxystigma Msoo, Kilimanjaro Mahnogany, Lovoa swynnertonii,andMilicia execls etc.50 fauna species including black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, antelopes, wathorgs, dik dik etc. Also, more than 15 birds found in Rau forest reserve like African spoonbill. There are also variety of butterflies species found in Rau forest like common mother of pearl, gold handed forester etc. Bees such as Apis mellifera adansonii, stingless bees (Mellipolina) and Forest Marsh Snake.
ACTIVITIES
Tourism activities which can be performed in the reserve include: nature walking, hiking, cycling, bird watching, butterfly watching, photographing and filming, animal viewing, research and studying, worshipping, viewing Rau river, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Moshi town and rice farm tour.
Mwambesi Nature Forest Reserve, found in Ruvuma region (Tunduru district) is a miombo woodland forest having 112,901 ha with a boundary length of about 128.79km. The reserve has sceneries features adjacent to and within forest area which have great potential for use as a recreation area that can be harnessed. There are unique geomorphologic features, cultural and historical sites that are of great tourism attraction.
The forest is bordered by ten villages namely Michesi, Amani, Chiungo, Mchenga moto and Mea_Mtwaro villages to the Northern south while to the eastern south border with Imani, Mwenge, Angalia, Jiungeni and Nyerere villages; its boundary stretches along Msenjewe river from North to the north-east and along Ruvuma river from east to south. To the west, the boundary is marked by Mitesa and Mwambesi rivers.
Climate
The area is characterized by hot climate with an average annual rainfall less than 1000mm. The climate is typically tropical by single rainfall pattern of rain season starting December to May and dry season from June to November. There is a variation of temperature with average of 25°C with highest temperature being 29°C and the lowest is 22°C (Tunduru profile, 2015).
Time to Visit Mwambesi Nature Forest Reserves
The best time to visit Mwambesi Nature Forest Reserve is on May to December while the raining is stopped. The time is good for bird watchers, nature lovers, plants, chameleons, black grey colubus monkeys, ants, spiders, and snakes, birds streams, rocks, view peaks, dams, caves, historical sites, ritual sites and cultural activities spot fishing, swimming and adventurers.
Meals and Accomodation
Currently there are ulimited meals and accommodation services in MNFR therefore; this area offers a substantial opportunity for investment. The management of MNFR invites both foreign and local investors to invest inside and outside the reserve in terms of picnic lunch, picnic sites, camp sites and eco-lodges especially at Airstrip area, Isimililo, Sunda waterfalls and in other areas. Issues of EIA and carrying capacity are highly regarded in MNFR before, during and after investment with regard to national laws and policies dealing with environmental protection.
Utalii West Kilimanjaro carries the brand of West Kilimanjaro Forest Plantation covering an area of 7,532.01ha exists in the west part of Mount Kilimanjaro, Siha District –Kilimanjaro. TFS west Kilimanjaro is one of the 24 plantation forest with part of natural forest that carries a diverse of ecotourism components. It’s a famous biodiversity hotspot which is rich in flora and fauna with “The destination of leading mountain forest bike trails with the scenic beauty of Mikingamo crater cave and the snow view tower of Mount Kilimanjaro”. As the ecotourism hub of potentials thus, welcome investors who are interested in investing in ecotourism, cabins, semi permanent tented camp and recreation activities. Further to welcome both domestic and international tourists to visit our beautiful destination. The destination offers diverse choices of activities at all levels from soft recreation activities to adventures and research activities. The most special features of TFS Utalii West Kilimanjaro is the opportunity to gain a wide range of experience from natural, plantation features including flora and fauna and cultural features such as a historical royal village of Donyomurwak, traditional healing, cooking and dances old German ruins, Mikingamo crater caves and buildings. Some of the attractions are found inside and others around the plantation and natural Forest part.
ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS.
Within the forest there are attractive natural features for ecotourism activities which are Nature Forest trails, Birds, Elephants, Caves and Crater Cave, Snow view tower, Donyomurwak ritual moutain reserve, worshiping sites, picnic sites, kaniitieni stones, black and white colubus monkey, game drive route, water fall and natural swimming pool. There are an opportunity for cultural tourism, acclimatization area and agro-tourism in Carrots, green beans and irish potatoes how they are prepared to the point
ACCESSIBILITY.
Utalii west Kilimanjaro is accessible and easily reached via TFS –West Kilimanjaro FP. At Bomang’ombe (a small town) in between Moshi –Arusha highway, you take the turning sanya juu road to west Kilimanjaro about 72km just 45min. From Ngarenairobi road, you can either visit the head office (2.5km) or one way to Simba Gate about 5km from ngarenairobi small town.
ACCOMMODATION.
There are lodges such Simba Farm lodges and camp sites (Simba Mzee Camp site) if interested TFS West Kilimanjaro can hire and make arrangements, local/swahili food and foregn food (mult culinary), drinking water and cooking facilities.
ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES
The destination is newly with untouched features for swimming, bird watching, hiking, camping, research and excursional tour, bonfire/fire camp, photographing, acclimatization for mountain climbing, game drive tour, forest biking trails, Forest Motor Cross, meditation and worshiping at Kiboma hill peak, view points, recreation and experiencing the pleasant beauty of mother nature.
Lake Ngozi (or Lake Ngosi) is the second largest crater lake in Africa.It can be found near Tukuyu, a small town in the highland Rungwe District, Mbeya Region, of southern Tanzania in East Africa. It is part of the Poroto Mountains and the northern rim of the caldera is the highest point in the range. The caldera mostly composed from trachytic and phonolitic lavas. Ngozi is a Holocene caldera that generated the Kitulo pumice 12,000 years ago during a Plinian eruption, most likely in the same eruption that generated the caldera. Other eruption deposits are the Ngozi Tuff (less than thousand years ago) and the Ituwa Surge base surge deposits of uncertain age, but intermediary to the Kitulo pumice and Ngozi Tuff. The youngest activity generated a pyroclastic flow that flowed southwards for 10 km around 1450 CE. Some pyroclastic cones surround the volcano. The walls of the caldera are forested, with the exception of segments scoured by landslides and high cliffs that inhibit access to the water. The inner caldera is forested with Maesa lanceolata, Albizia gummifera and Hagenia abyssinica, far fewer tree species than neighbouring mountains consistent with the recent geological origin of the volcano. The caldera itself is not subjected to hydrothermal activity, but large subaqueous CO2 emissions and local legends of the killing power of the lake indicate a danger of limnic eruptions. The lake floor according to echosounding is flat and has no terraces.
The lake does not undergo large scale fluctuations in lake level, with only minor differences between the dry and rainy seasons. Air temperatures above the lake are around 18 °C with only minor seasonal variations.
Sporadically, the forests were occupied by Safwa hunters. Reports in 2013 stated that in the following year a geothermal project would commence in the vicinity of the volcano halfway between Ngozi and the town of Mbeya.
Local Myths and Folk Tales
There are a number of local myths and folk tales which surround the volcanic lake, and the surrounding area.
The Nyakyusa People (ethnic group in this area of Southern Tanzania) say that a shaman called Lwembe was chased from his birth village (Ukwama in the Makete area) to the waters of Lake Ngozi after the people had become weary of the deceptive nature of his magic.
Once Lwembe became an inhabitant of the waters edge, the local tribe's cattle began to disappear. It is said that villagers started going missing too if they ventured too close to the waters. Nyakyusa elders dispelled the area by rolling a huge boulder which had been placed in the heart of a fire for three days into the water, while casting their own spells. Since that time, the evils spell on the Lake has not returned.
The most commonly heard myth and folk tale is that of a group of Colonial German soldiers who disposed of treasure into the waters of the lake. They put a spell on the Lake to protect the gold and hamper any other persons' efforts to reclaim it. Some variations of the myth suggest that this caused an emission of poisonous gasses (which we now know could be linked to a Limnic eruption), while others claim that there is a twelve headed snake that protects the treasure and comes out to the surface on sunny days. Whether there ever was a treasure remains a mystery.
Mangrove forest ecosystem covers an area of 158,000 ha including its water bodies which is only a fraction of total forest cover area in Tanzania of 48.1 million hectares. Despite of its small proportion in terms of area coverage, mangroves contribute to significant socio economic values countrywide and at most worldwide on ecological perspective.5 regions and 14 districts are covered by mangroves forests along the Tanzania mainland coastline. Tanga coastline harbors the mangroves along its coastline at Mkinga, Muheza and Pangani districts in an area of 11,159 ha. The management of mangroves is manned by TFS Northern Mangrove Zonal Manager who collaborates with District Security Committees and Village Natural Resources Committees. Pwani region coastline is covered by the largest mangrove area (66,222 ha) in Tanzania and East Africa over Bagamoyo, Mkuranga, Mafia and Kibiti districts. The Adjacent region to Pwani is Dar-es-Salaam regions which have only 2,220.9 ha of mangrove forests at Kinondoni, Ilala, Temeke and Kigamboni districts. On the other hand Lindi and Mtwara regions coastline is inhabitated by 26,976 ha in Lindi while Mtwara completes the chain of mangrove forest cover in the Southern end of Tanzania in the area of 8,942 ha. Regional mangrove management is classified as Zonal Mangrove Management under 3 zones namely Northern Zone which covers Tanga region, Central zone which covers Pwani and Dar-es-Salaam region while Southern Zone covers Lindi and Mtwara regions. Despite of all mandatory management efforts towards mangrove management as per TFS Strategic plan and approved Business plan, the district security committees have been collaborating with TFS in the institutionalization of laws and regulations governing sustainable use and management of mangroves.
Mangrove forest ecosystem potentials are marked with supply of tangible produce like wood based forest produce like timber and poles for building sector in some areas which traditionally prefer such produce like Zanzibar and other coastal communities. Some mangrove tree species like Xylocarpus granatum species are traditionally used as medicine for hernia diseases.
Ecologically mangrove forest ecosystem offers a wide range of ecological functions in Tanzania. Mangroves are a good habitat for various birds and fishes. Records show that migratory birds from far East Europe at some times tend to migrate as far as down to Tanzania coastline to rescue themselves from bad weather and secure substantial food supplies for living. Rufiji Delta mangroves have been recorded to harbor some migratory birds due to its richness in both the quantity as well as diversity fish types. Rufiji Delta mangrove ecosystems have been categorized under IUCN classification as the Important Bird Area (IBA) due to the fact that intercontinental migratory birds often immigrate from far North in Europe during bad weather all the way to Rufiji Delta. This fact provides good arena for educational tourism
Mangrove forest ecosystems are often found in estuaries, gulfs and lagoons which end up with sand banks and dykes at offshore waters. The dykes and sand banks are good feeding sites for most birdlife which feeds at shallow water fishes and crustaceans like different forms of crabs. Huge swarm of birds can be viewed over these sites close to mangrove estuaries.
Mangrove forest ecosystems provides safe habitat for various kinds of fishes for both hatchery and protections. It has been recorded that more than 75% of all prawn fishes catch is from marine ecosystem adjacent to mangrove forest ecosystems. Mangrove land extends into offshore line at a certain distance before its inter-linkage with coral reefs ecosystem just after sea grasses zone. This is an opportunity for spot fishing and coral reefs tourism
Dense interlocked stems of mangrove vegetation cover provide opportunity for refuge in some instances during war times as it has been observed during colonial era. This fact led to refuge of the Germany war forts and ships in some mangrove forest cover like it is the case in Mkinga and Rufiji Districts where one can observe historical ruins. This opportunity provides favorable factor for development of cultural tourism in such mangrove areas.
Mangrove forest ecosystem provides a shield against adverse effects of sea wave and strong monsoon wind erosion. There had been cases where mangrove have been degraded by human influences thus necessitating the government to construct expensive wall along the shoreline in order to save the earth against the erosion effects
Mangrove Utilization
Mangrove utilization by the local communities tends to vary from one society to another. Practical utilization in most societies in Tanzania include poles cutting for house construction, boat and canoe building, furniture, pounding motors, and fuel wood. There other uses which if not controlled lead to deterioration of mangrove forests. Such practices include rice farming in Rufiji Delta, salt making and settlement as well as development projects like fish farming.
Managrove Management Interventions in Tanzania
TFS has invented in several interventions which aim at alleviating concurrent mangrove management practices. This include decentralization of mangroves forests from jurisdictional Forest management as per TFS Establishment Order. Mangrove forests have been set as separate management unit managed by Zonal Mangrove Managers and respective District Forest Managers. There are also special surveillance zones at Bagamoyo and Kilwa Districts in order to intercept all illegal marine and mangrove thefts.
The Ministry of Natural Resource has signed a MoU between Tanzania Mainland and Isles (Zanzibar) which aims at collaborative efforts of combating any illegal mangrove produce trade across Indian Ocean.
Other interventions include provision of an opportunity to collaborate with other multinational bilateral NGOS in mangrove management and involvement of District Security Committees in surveillances.
Lake Duluti Forest Reserve is located in the Northern part of Tanzania - Arumeru District, Arusha Region. The Lake has an area of 62.3 ha with its deepest point reaching 700m. Roundabout the lake there is a natural forest. The lake’s outstanding tourism attraction features are the volcanic and green colored water of the Lake and the absence of any above ground stream feeding it; apparently, the Lake receives water from underground flows.
The natural forest roundabout the lake is teeming with wildlife that include reptiles such as green mambas, and monitor lizards; different bird species that include grey herons, fish eagles, cormorants, ospreys and kingfishers. Furthermore, the variety of different tree species form beautiful scenery and a prayer mountain.
Ecotourism Activities
For adventurers the reserve is suitable for:
Accessibility
The reserve is located in Arumeru District near Tengeru town. It is 14km from Arusha City center and about one km from Arusha Moshi highway.
Other Tourist Attractions near Lake Duluti Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions available near Lake Duluti Forest Reserve are Meru Usa Plantation, Arusha National Park, Kilimanjaro National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, Mererani Tanzanite Mining Site. Arumeru District is also famous for a number of Cultural Tourism Enterprises such as Ifulong Cultural Tourism Enterprise and Tengeru Cultural Tourism Program.
Supporting Facilities
Among supporting facilities are canoes and camping sites. Accommodation facilities are found outside the reserve in Arusha City and Tengeru Township.
The Tembe was built in 1857 by the wealth Arab trader known as Said Salum Mohamed as the Warehouse of collecting Slaves and Ivories.
The site is located in Itetemia Ward at Kwihara Village in Tabora Municipal about 8Km southwestern of Tabora town along Tabora-Sikonge Road. The size of the heritage site is about 2.7ha.
In 1871 the Tembe accommodated the famous European Explorers Dr. David Livingstone and Henry Stanley Morton. The Tembe has a strong tie with the slave history of Tanzania and the world at large. It was built by a slave Trader, using slave Labour and finally occupied by a slave abolitionist David Livingstone. It is therefore important source of historical information for pupils, researches and tourists; both local and international.
ACCESSIBILITY
The site can be reached by motor vehicles and motorcycles and it just take 30 minutes to arrive at the site from Tabora town. The best time of visiting the site is during the dry season in May,June,July,August,September and November.
ATTRACTIONS
The main attraction found at the site is the history of slave trades,the history of Europeans explores,missionaries and history of colonial invasion.The site is also enriched with the number of cultural heritages objects.
TOURISM FACILITIES
Accomodation facilities which include hotels and lodges can be found near to the site at Tabora town.
INVESTMENT OPPURTUNITIES
-Establishment of camping site -Construction of lodges and restaurant;
-Establishment of curioshop
-Establishment of children recreation area
-Building of museum related to cultural heritages
ACTIVITIES
Site-Seeing
The visitor will see and enjoy spectacular natural and cultural landscape of the ancient town of Tabora flourished with numerous historical monuments which include Dr.Livingstone Tembe and the grave of John William Shaw.Inside the Tembe there are a lot of archeological and historical artifacts which include the slaves chains,Dr.Livingstone hairs,a well preserved copies of New York Herald newspapers of 1872,a cross of Henry Stanley friends who was known as John William Shaw,numerous manuscripts and historical illustrations of Dr.David Livingstone and Henry Stanley Morton.The Tembe is also filled with the number of uniqueness and attractive cultural objects which include calabash,pots,spears,arrows and traditional bed which depict Tanzania culture.
-Exhibitions rooms.
The Tembe consists numbers of rooms with fascinating history.This include the slaves chamber which was used to keep slaves,the room used by Dr.David Livingstone and his assisants,the bedroom used by an arab slaves trader,donkey stable room and the room used by an interpreter who was known as Sidi Mubarak Bombay.
“A place to learn Shirazi Culture”
Tongoni Ruins are situated 21km South of Tanga City along Tanga – Pangani road. The Ruins are surrounded with baobab trees and stand of Mangroves along the Indian Ocean. The ruins at Tongani are one of the most famous ruins in the history of Shirazi people who lived along the Indian Ocean Coast of East Africa. It is believed that Tongoni Ruins are one of first Shirazi settlements, which depicts the Shirazi cultures. The attractions in the area include old graves, remains of mosque and about 20 overgrown Shirazi pillar- style tomb, the largest collections of such tomb in the East African Coast. Both the mosque and tombs are believed to have been built either in 14th or 15th century. Beyond the ruins is a fishing village where cultural and traditional activities of some descendants of the Shirazi people lived in the ruins can be experienced.
Tourism Activities
The area is suitable for excursions to learn the cultures and traditions of the Shirazi people and other Coastal tribes. Other activities include walking within the Mangrove and big baobab trees, and swimming.
Other Tourist Attractions near Tongoni Ruins
Other tourist attractions found near Tongoni Ruins are Amani Nature Forest Reserve, Mkwaja and Ushongo Beaches, Amboni Caves, Sadaan National Park and Tanga Coelacanth Marine Park (TACMP).
Accessibility
The area can be accessed by road from Tanga City through Tanga – Pangani road about 21km.
A place to immerse in ancient cultures”
Kaole ruins one of the richest historic sites established in the 13th and 15th centuries. The ruins are in a small town some 4.5km southwest of Bagamoyo along the Indian Ocean. The remnants of the buildings were built during the administration of Sultan of Kilwa who had power over coastal trade even before Bagamoyo had assumed any significance. Tourist attractions in Kaole include the remains of two Mosques one built in 13th century- the oldest in Tanzania and in East Africa; and the other built in 15th century. Other attractions are the 22 graves; dense strand of mangroves; a magic well; small museum with items used during colonial era and the old harbor;
Tourism Activities
The place is good for exploration and educational tour in Mangrove forests and other sites.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kaole Ruins
Other tourist attractions found near Kaole Ruins, are Bagamoyo Stone Town, Pande Game Reserve, Sadaan National Park.
Accessibility
The easiest way to reach the ruins on foot is by heading south of Bagamoyo for about 5km along the road passing Chuo cha Sanaa to the signboard indicating where Kaole village is. Either one can hire a taxi or drive to the ruins.
“The Oldest Swahili Coast”
Bagamoyo Stone Town or Mji Mkongwe as known by local people is located on the eastern side of Tanzania along the Indian Ocean in Coast Region. The town has old historic buildings, which were used by German Colonial Administration in the 18th to 19th century for different purposes. The town has other several historical buildings of the Arabs and the Germans like the Old Fort, built in 1897; Liku House, which served as German administrative headquarters; the first multiracial school; old slave market and German customs house; slave house prison and scenery of the Indian Ocean.
Tourism Activities
The old town of Bagamoyo offers exploration and educational tour; biking, night and day walk, snorkeling and diving in the Indian Ocean, spot fishing, boat tour and sea view.
Other Tourist Attractions near Bagamoyo Stone Town
Other tourist attractions found near Bagamoyo Stone Town are Kaole Ruins, Pande Game Reserve, Sadaan National Park.
Accessibility
The area is easily accessible by tarmac road 63.4km from Dar es Salaam to Bagamoyo Town about 2 hours drive.
Supporting Facilities
At Bagamoyo town there are several rest houses, lodges and hotels, however one can secure accommodation in Dar Es Salaam.
“A place of cultural diversity”
The Kondoa Rock Art Paintings are found in Kondoa District – Dodoma Region. The Site covers an area of 900square kilometers. Most of the paintings are at Kolo forests. At Kolo rocks there are several cultural and heritage paintings, which portray the ancient life style of Warangi tribe. The area was the residence of Chief Mtemi, one of the traditional leaders in Tanzania. There are also several secret places and trees used for ritual performances, paintings of different animals and human beings, hot and cold water springs, and the beautiful landscape.
Accessibility
The area is accessed by road either from Dodoma City about 202km on the way to Kondoa or from Arusha City about 247km on the way to Kondoa.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kondoa Rock Art Paintings
Other tourist attractions found near Kondoa Rock Art Paintings are Chenene Forest Reserve, Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve, Swagaswaga Game Reserve, Mkungunero Game Reserve and Tarangire National Park.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation can be secured at Kondoa Township or camp at private camping site. There are two camping sites at the area and one at one of the surrounding villages.
Ecotourism Activities
The area is suitable for excursions at the old fascinating ancestral rock paintings, biking, camping and learning the life of Sandawe and Hadza ethnic groups.
“Home to Hippos with Albinism”
Pindiro Nature Forest Reserve (PNFR) located in Kilwa District, Lindi Region covers an area of about 12,249ha. The reserve is the largest remaining coastal forests among the nature reserves of Tanzania. The forest serves as habitat for white hippopotamus (hippos with albinism) that are found only in the area in Tanzania.
The reserve has other numerous tourist attractions that including crocodiles, grants galago (Galagoides granti), the laser-pouched rat (Beamys hindei) and chequered elephant shrew (Rhynchocyon cirnei macrurus). Others are Nyange dam, network of riverine forests, Mbalahala hills, worshiping site and German ruins.
Ecotourism Activities
Tourists can have the opportunity to do the following Activities:
Accessibility
The reserve is easily accessed by road from either Kilwa Masoko or Lindi Municipality via Kiranjeranje junction. The distance from Kilwa Masoko to the reserve is 143 km whereas the distance from Lindi is 100km.
Other Tourist Attractions near Pindiro Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Pindiro Nature Forest Reserve are Rondo Nature Forest Reserve (south of Pindiro), the Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, Mafia Marine Parks and Mikindani Historical Site.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodations are available at Kilwa Masoko and Lindi Municipality. Visitors can also camp within the reserve.
Situated 50km North East of Kondoa town is the Salanga Forest Reserve with an area of 8,337ha. The reserve has mountain ranges with altitude ranging from 1150m to 1715meters above sea level that covers Salanga ridge and Kandaga/Itololomountain. The reserve has several water springs that supplies water for Domestic, livestock and to the vegetable farm. To villages of Mapinduzi, Otololo, Kisese, Mnenia and Kadaga.
ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS
The scenic view of Salanga and Itololo mountain ranges, the volcanic craters in the North Eastern part of the reserve, water streams and vegetable farms adjacent to the reserve adds to the attractions in Salanga Forest Reserve. The place has several rock paintings found at Masange, Itololo and Kandaga villages that are part of KondoaIrangi World Heritage. Wild animals in the reserve include; Wild pigs, lesser Kudu, Hyena and dik-diks, snakes, python, black mamba, lizards, butterflies, bees, birds and chameleons.
ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES
The site is suitable for camping, farm tourism, hiking, bird watching, photographing.
ACCESSIBILITY
The reserve is positioned adjacent to the Great North Road which runs from Dodoma to Arusha region. From Dodoma one can travel 202km and from Arusha city 247km to the site.
SUPPORTING FACILITIES
Kondoa town has rest houses of different categories. The area of also suitable for camping.
West Chenene Forest Reserve with 29,836ha located in Bahi District, Dodoma region, is one among very important catchment forest reserves in the Central Zone and the Dodoma City. The forest is characterized by hills and deep valleys with several permanent rivers such Songambele, Lusinde, Muungano, Mapinduzi B, Mnase, Uswahilini, Ipata, Kwasu that are source of waters for wildlife, livestock, vegetable farms and domestic uses. The reserves is among the forests that are located closest to the Capital of Tanzania and its cool micro climate and the thick forest depict the originals of Dodoma region.
ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS
Chenene Forest Reserve has beautiful scenery especially on the hills and mountain peaks at Mamboya and Busi. The plants rich diversity including spectacular ornamental trees and flowers; reptiles like lizards, snakes, monitor lizard, frog, and chameleons; insects and butterflies are among the astonishing attractions in the site. The reserve also contains animals like monkeys, pigs, hyena, Dikdik, Antelopes, Warthog and Rabbits. The Great North highway that passes adjacent to the forest is among the supreme attractions in the site.
ACCESSIBILITY
The area is accessible either from the Capital City of Tanzania – Dodoma about 50km or from Arusha city some 247km through the Great North Road.
SUPPORTING FACILITIES
Accommodation is available in several rest houses found in Kondoa Town.
Located in the center of Kondoa Town is the ChemiChemi Forest reserve with 18 acres. The name “Chemichemi” which is a Swahili word meaning “water spring”. The Forest has an astonishing hot water spring that supply waters for different uses for Kondoa Town dwellers. The most interesting about the spring is that during the morning and evening the waters become very hot but temperatures falls during the day. There is a local believe that a big elephant sunk into the spring and eventually increases the hole and volume of the water.
Ecotourism Attractions
The place is suitable for experiencing the hot water spring, camping, picnicking, forest tour and nature viewing.
Accessibility
The forest is situated in Kondoa Town and is accessible from Dodoma some 167km and from Arusha city 268km. From the town Centre just take a walk to the site.
Supporting Facilities
There are several rest houses at KondoaTown, also camping can be done inside the reserve.
Essimingor Nature Forest Reserve has an area of 6070ha and is located North Eastern part of Tanzania at Monduli Districts, Arusha region. The Reserve forms the largest mountain ranges of the Essimingor Mountains. The reserve comprise tall luxurious sub-montage forests and deciduous to semi-deciduous lowland forests. The reserve has exceptional conservation values that include biological diversity, endangered and threatened flora and fauna and is a water catchment. The forest and the adjacent environment has a number of medicinal plant species that are used for healing by the Maasai community.
ECOTOURISM ATTRACTIONS
Mountain view, Wild animals, bird watching, different medicinal tree species and the Maasai culture who live adjacent to the forest.
ACCESSIBILITY
The place is accessible either from Arusha city to Monduli/Makuyuni town some 76.8km or from Dodoma city to Monduli/Makuyuni town about 357km and then take several routes to the forest like: Lossimingor village – Kwature route; Mbuyuni village – Lossimingor village – Kwature route; Makuyuni – Lossimingor farm route (Kwa – Ugoro); Esilalei – Vodacom route and Selela – Leken Dam route.
SUPPORTING FACILITIES
Accommodation is available at a small town of Makuyuni or in Arusha city. Camping can also be done in forest.
ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES
Learn the Maasai culture in relation to forest conservation, Beekeeping, hiking, camping, photographing, bird watching, learn Maasai culture and medicinal plants.
“The lungs of Dar Es Salaam”
Pugu/kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve with 12,015ha is the remnant of the oldest lowland Coastal forests of Tanzania. The reserve is located 12 kilometers Southwest of Dar Es Salaam. The forest is recognized for its high biodiversity value with spectacular flora and fauna. As a result of such rich biodiversity, a number of touristic attractions are found in the reserve. These include closed forest full of various plant species, giant bamboo stands, lake Minaki, bat caves, Dar Es Salaam City viewpoints, worshiping sites, ritual sites, the endemic Mpugupugu tree from which the reserve got its name; colobus monkeys and millipedes. This rich portfolio of tourism attractions enable the reserve to offers enormous recreation satisfactions for Dar es Salaam dwellers and travelers awaiting their flight at the Julius Nyerere International Airport.
Ecotourism Activities
Ecotourism activities that can be done at Pugu/kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve include: Hiking, canoeing, bird watching, photographing, camping, worshiping, meditation and trekking to view-points.
Other Tourist Attractions near Pugukazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Pugu/kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve are Vikindu Range and Nyerere National Park.
Accessibility
Pugu/kazimzumbwi Nature Forest Reserve is accessible through a tarmac road only 12 km from Dar Es Slaam City Center.
“The land of roaring waterfall”
Kalambo Nature Forest Reserve is in Kalambo District, Rukwa Region and has an area of 43,334ha. The iconic tourist attraction of the reserve is the Kalambo Waterfalls, which also serves as the border between Tanzania and Zambia. The waterfalls is the 2nd highest fall in Africa with a single drop of 250m.
Besides the Kalambo waterfalls, there are attractions like the Kalambo Gorge at downstream of the waterfalls, a beautiful beach around Lake Tanganyika, a hot water spring at Kizombwe village, cultural attractions like Rungu Drama from Kalambo village and several archaeological resources.
Ecotourism Activities
The reserve offers a number of ecotourism experiences, including camping, picnicking, walking safari, filming, photographing, primate watching, swimming, meditation, research and sightseeing.
Accessibilities
The reserve can be accessed through a tarmac road from Mbeya via Sumbawanga Municipality or from Katavi Region. Both Mbeya and Katavi have modern Airports that service domestic air flights. Mbeya on the other hand can be reached by public bus transports from most parts of Tanzania and is also a main stop for the TAZARA railway.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kalambo Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Kalambo Nature Forest Reserve are Lake Tanganyika, Katavi National Park. On the road from Mbeya there is Mbozi Meteorite (Kimondo) found in Songwe Region.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation facilities can be secured in Sumbawanga Municipality.
“A Home to Thomas Galago”
Minziro Nature Forest Reserve is an astonishing nature forest reserve with about 250 species of birds and a primate known as bush baby. The reserve extends close to the shores of the second largest lake in the world, Lake Victoria. The reserve also borders Kagera River. These water bodies support high biodiversity of both fauna and flora in the forest reserve.
The reserve is exceptional with variety of tourist attractions, which include various species of birds (such as blue swallow, forest frankolin, great blue Turaco, blue breasted kingfisher); about 600 natural species of butterfly; World war I base at Burembe hill, traditional nature trail and unique stands of papyrus along the Kagera River.
Ecotourism Activities
The reserve is blessed with multi tourist activities ranging from bird watching, hiking, camping, Nature viewing, cultural and spiritual practices of Wahaya and Baganda, photographing, research, educational tours and excursions.
Accessibility
The forest can be accessed via Bunazi town from Bukoba about 90km and from Mutukula area (Tanzania-Uganda border) about 35km.
Other Tourist Attractions near Minziro Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Minziro Nature Forest Reserve are Ibanda Kyerwa National Park, Rumanyika-Karagwe National Park, Lake Victoria, Burigi Chato and Rubondo Island National Park
Supporting Facilities
Camping can be at two sites within the forest while other accommodation facilities can be secured outside the reserve at Bunazi, Mutukula and Bukoba townships.
“Acclimatization Site”
Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve has an area of 5,871ha at an altitude ranging from 1860 - 3418 meter above sea level. The forests are in an extinct volcanic mountain situated in Katesh town – Manyara Region. Mount Hanang is the fourth highest mountain in Tanzania after Kilimanjaro, Meru and Olmalasin with an elevation of 3,676 meter above sea level.
The reserve is a fascinating eco and cultural destination due to presence of a number of cultural, historical and heritage sites like Barabaig and Iraqw sacred areas, Soda lakes of Balang'dalalu and Gendabi. The mole-rat (Fukomys hanangensis) is endemic to this reserve. The area has an underground water of Lake Basotugang and attractive landscapes. Mount Hanang is a popular spot for acclimatization for climbers wanting to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
Ecotourism Activities
Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve has multi eco and cultural touristic activities such as traditional dances, traditional accessorizing, visiting sacred sites, local brew testing, hiking and trailing, mountain climbing, game viewing, bird watching, forest walks and photographing. Sight viewing of the Great Rift Valley and caves as you ascend to mount Hanang peak.
Accessibility
Accessibility to the area is by road either from Dar es Salaam via Dodoma and Manyara (about 800 km) or from Singida town (about 159 km). Visitors arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport can proceed to the reserve, about 270 km via Arusha City.
Other Tourist Attractions near Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve are Kondoa Rock Art Paintings, Essimingor Nature Forest Reserves, Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation can be secured at Katesh and Babati townships. Camping can be done at the foot of hills of the mountain or on the plateau.
“Home to Rondo Dwarf Galago”
Rondo Nature Forest Reserve with an area of area of 11,742ha, is part of the coastal forest mosaic located in southern part of Tanzania, Lindi Region. The reserve runs the entire Rondo (Mwera) plateau at around 870 above sea level.
The reserve is home to coastal forest endemic and critically endangered primate, the Rondo Dwarf Galago (Galagoides rondoensis) and harbors at least 60 endemic plant species, dry evergreen forest, viewpoints, cultural tourism, diverse animal species and is an elephant corridor between Southern Wildlife protected areas. In addition, the reserve has historical site for the Majimaji War, Nyerere tree (Newtonia buchananii) - a famous tree in the reserve used by Mwalimu J.K. Nyerere as a medicinal plant that cure various diseases. The tree is also useful for worshiping purposes.
Ecotourism Activities
The reserve offers a number of ecotourism experiences, including hiking, nature trail walks, bird watching photographing, camping, research and education tours and visits to cultural sites.
Accessibility
The reserve is approximately 60km from Lindi town with two access routes. The first route is from Lindi to Ngongo through Lindi - Mtwara road. The second one is via Lindi - Masasi through Nyengedi (80km).
Other Tourist Attractions near Rondo Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Rondo Nature Forest Reserve are Pindiro Nature Forest Reserves, (north of Rondo), the Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, Mafia Marine Parks, Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park and Mikindani Historical Site.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation is available outside the reserve in Lindi and Masasi townships. Camping can be done within the reserve.
“An exceptional land of higher biodiversity and endemic flora and fauna”
The Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve (KNFR) is the largest nature forest reserve in Tanzania, covering 134,511ha. The reserve lies between Udzungwa Mountains National Park and Uzungwa scarp Nature Forest Reserve in Kilombero District, Morogoro Region and Kilolo District in Iringa Region. Its highest point at Nyumbanitu peak is 2600 metres above sea level. The reserve is an immigration corridor for large mammals between Udzungwa National Park and the newly established Nyerere National Park.
Tourist attractions found in the reserve including: elephants, buffaloes, the cave at Magombera, bats caves; the Wahehe tribe sacred and worship sites, several viewpoints from which a visitor can see over 100 km away including Kilombero River, the waterfalls, ox-bow lakes with various fish species, over 150 bird species including rare Udzungwa partridge, and beautiful scenic features, valleys and landscapes.
Ecotourism Activities
The reserve cater to the interests of visitors who seek to undertake animal and bird watching, hiking or trekking, research and educational tours, forest walk, camping, cultural (visit to sacred sites, colonial historical sites), biking and photographing.
Accessibility
Access to the reserve is via Ilula and Udekwa in Iringa (about 120km). Alternatively, visitors may reach the reserve from Mikumi National Park via Kidatu – Ifakara road approximately 130km. Another option a visitor has is using TAZARA railway alighting at either Mang’ula, Ifakara or Kilombero stations.
Other Tourist Attractions near Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve (KNFR)
Other tourist attractions found near Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve are the Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Magombera Nature Forest Reserve, Nyerere National Park, Kidatu Power Station and Mikumi National Park.
Supporting Facilities
The reserve offers can camping sites, otherwise other accommodation facilities can be secured in Iringa Municipality or Ifakara town.
“Sights and scenes of the Eastern Arc Mountains”
Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve, located in Mvomero District - Morogoro Region covers an area of 26,433ha. The reserve is the largest block of forest of Nguru Mountain with amazing scenic features of mountain peaks characterized with waterfalls from all angles of view. It is one of the nature forest reserves found in the Eastern Arc Mountains endowed with high and unique biological, ecological and cultural values, and the most important source of water for industrial and domestic use for Morogoro Municipality, Chalinze township and Dar es Salaam City.
The reserve is graced with attractive scenery of Mountain peaks of Mnesa, Gonja, Mkindo and Mndela with magnificent waterfalls at Chazi, Ubiri, Divue, Dibohelo, Lusingiso, Dikuyu and Diwale. There are natural caves at Malolo, Makunguru, Mhango, Mnimbo, Kwechifuko, Pangai, Kwamanakadege and Mabuga. Other attractions are natural ponds, Mkindo River, underground river at Montori and Matumu that forms an appealing feature for nature exploration and beautiful forests. There are also Chief Kingalu’s worshiping areas and Old German Boma.
Ecotourism Activities
The forest reserve provides hiking/trekking, forest walk, game viewing, swimming, cultural and traditional experience, and research and educational tours.
Accessibility
The area can be accessed by road from Morogoro Municipality via Madizini village to Mhonda about 118km, the second route is from Morogoro to Maskati via Ndole 120km.
Other Tourist Attractions near Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve are Uzigua Nature Forest Forest Reserve and Wami Mbiki Game Reserve
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation is available at Madizini and Morogoro Municipality, several camping sites are available in the reserve.
“A Home to Uluguru Bushrike”
Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve covering an area of 24,115ha is located in Morogoro and Mvomero Districts in Morogoro, being the central part of the Eastern Arc Mountains. The reserve is among the 25 hotspots biodiversity areas in the world.
The reserve has pristine features such as the upland grassland with swampy areas at Lukwangule plateau, Kimhandu and Lupanga peaks, amazing waterfalls at Kibwe, Fizigo, Choma and Hululu. Moreover, within the reserve there is the headquarter of the Waluguru's traditional leader - Chief Kingalu Mwanabanzi XIV, the Historical German settlements at morning site, the sacred forests for traditional worshiping and rituals, which include Ugulo forest clan in Tegetero for Wanyani and yanyiko clans around Bigwa village
In addition, there are variety of berries (strawberries, wild berries) and spices (such as cinnamon), unique reptiles with one or two or three horned chameleons, endemic birds (such as Uluguru bush-shrike-kurumbizi and Loveidge'sun bird-chozi moro), endemic plant species, Tallow tree (locally known as Mkimbo), Panicum lukwangulensis - unique grasses found only in Lukwangule.
Ecotourism Activities
The place is ideal for bird watching, hiking, trekking, forest walking, camping, research and educational tour, sunrise and sunset viewing, cultural tourism, photographing, berry picking, swimming in Hululu pond, climbing up and downstairs close to Hululu waterfalls, meditation and worshiping at Hululu waterfalls, picnics and nature trails.
Accessibility
The reserve can be reached by road via Morogoro town.
Other Tourist Attractions near Uluguru Mountains Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Uluguru Mountains Nature Forest Reserve are Mkingu Nature Forest Reserve, Historical Sites at Solomon Mahlangu Campus at Mazimbu Morogoro, Mikumi Natioal Parks and Nyerere National Park.
Supporting Facilities
At Vinile village there is a small forest office with nearby camping and picnic site; otherwise, accommodations are found in Morogoro town.
“Home to Red Colobus Moneys”
The Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve (USNFR) covers an area of 32,763.2ha. It is located in the Udzungwa Mountains within Iringa Region (Kilolo and Mufindi Districts) and Kilombero District in Morogoro Region. The reserve is home to Red Colobus monkeys and varieties of vegetation including tall luxurious sub montane forest. Other tourism attractions found in the reserve are unique canopy features, wild animals like elephants, buffaloes; migratory birds; attractive sceneries, caves, waterfalls ((Idasi, lutalawa, Msingusi, Kiimbi, Ikungwe, Udagaji, Mipimati), historical and cultural sites (at Madege, Lendi, Igeni, Kisupyo, Lugugwe, Utemelwa, Lupondelo, Lusakalilo villages), nature trails and.
Ecotourism Activities
Tourists can do the following ecotourism activities: swim at the natural ponds, sunrise and sunset viewing, hiking, trekking, safari adventures, cultural and traditional experiences, bird watching, research and educational tours, photographing and camping.
Accessibility
There are three access routes to the reserve. The first one is through Ipogolo via Kilolo District to Uluti village, which is about 100km from Iringa town. The Second is through Mufindi District via Mapanda Ward to Uhafiwa village about 130 km from Mafinga Township. The third is from Morogoro Municipality via Mikumi Town to Ifakara town then Chita to Udagaji village, which is about 80km.
In Iringa Munipality there is Nduli airport which serves scheduled and non-scheduled/ chartered flights from major cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Kilijmanjaro. The distance from Iringa town to Uzungwa Scarp Nature Forest Reserve is about 120 km.
Other Tourist Attractions near Uzungwa Nature Forest Reserve (UNFR)
Other tourist attractions found near Uzungwa Nature Forest Reserve are the Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Nyerere National Park and Kidatu Power Station. Visitors coming to the reserve through Iringa, also have the opportunity to visit nearby tourist attraction such as Kalenga Historical Centre, Isimila archeological Site and Ruaha National Park
Supporting Facilities
Visitors can camp within the reserve, while other accommodations are available in Iringa Municipality.
“The land of Three Horned Chameleons”
Nilo Nature Forest Reserve covering an area of 6,025 ha is located in the East Usambara Mountains and falls under three districts of Muheza, Korogwe and Mkinga in Tanga Region. The reserve is among the 25 biodiversity ‘hotspot’ in the world and is designated as World Heritage sites. The forest has a fascinating 'Y' shape that denotes "YES" to visitors.
The reserve has Mountain peaks with pristine views at Lutindi and Nilo peaks; scenic drive route from Kizara to Kizerui with remarkable history; beautiful Tuvui waterfalls and diversity of attractive plants with superb patches of camphor trees. Worship sites are also found at Lutindi peak and Kwemkole village called "Hundu" meaning Holy water point.
Ecotourism Activities
Tanzania’s forest reserve offers pristine nature experiences such as bird watching, sunrise and sunset watching, mountain biking, night walking safari, forest walks, research and educational tours, swimming at the plunge pools of the waterfall, picnicking, camping and nature viewing.
Accessibility
The reserve is accessible by road either from Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Kilimanjaro or Arusha via Muheza or Korogwe townships. From Korogwe town it is a drive of 78 km via Magoma - Kwetonge junction. Whereas from Muheza town it is a drive of 66 km through Amani Nature Forest Reserve and Bulwa junction. There are 22km of nature trails connecting different parts of the reserve including trails up to Lutindi and Nilo Peaks. There is also 12.5km scenic drive that passes through the reserve and Kizerui Village.
Other Tourist Attractions near Nilo Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Nilo Nature Forest Reserve are Magamba, Chome , and Amani Nature Forest Reserves, Mkomazi National Park and Amboni Caves
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation facilities can be obtained at Korogwe town. Also, visitors may enjoy camping within the reserve.
“Home of African Violent flowers (“Saintpaulia”)
Amani Nature Forest Reserve (ANFR) is located in Muheza and Korogwe Districts in Tanga Region. The Nature Reserve covers an area of 8,380 ha and it has tremendous ecological importance with the astonishing African violet flowers (Saintpaulia) which is believed to have a spiritual aspect (power of forgiveness) and cultural significance. According to Bird Life International, the area is ranked the 12th world best bird watching sites and the UNESCO list the Reserve among the designated Man and Biosphere Reserve in the World.
Apart from the Saintpaulia flowers, the reserve is gifted with other varieties of tourist attractions ranging from endemic species of flora and fauna, unique biodiversity, natural attractions, historical and cultural attractions. Additionally, the reserve is famous for varieties of bird and butterfly species. Other attractions are: the three horned chameleons, amazing waterfalls (at Zigi, Chemka and Ndola) where visitors can swim after a trek through the forest, Sunset and sunrise viewpoints, a Botanical garden which is one of the oldest in Africa with more than 1000 plant species from all over the globe, Cultural attractions that include Traditions, Historical sites with remnants of steam engines used during the colonial era, Beautiful viewpoint of tea plantations and spice farms.
Ecotourism Activities
The rich endowment of nature-based tourist attractions, offers a wide range ecotourism activities including nature viewing, bird watching, night walking safaris, picnicking and camping, sun downers, mountain biking, swimming in the plunge pools of waterfalls, forest trekking (hiking), cultural activities (local dancing or watching, local massage and local brew testing) research and educational tour, excursion and photographing.
Accessibility
The reserve is accessible from 3 routes. First route is from Dar es Salaam city 330 kilometers, the second route is from Arusha city some 446 kilometers and the third route is from Tanga city some 74 kilometers. Coincidentally all three routes pass through Muheza town.
Other Tourist Attractions near ANFR
Amani is a nearby attraction to other destinations such as Sadaan National Park through Pangani old town, Amboni Caves and Tongoni Ruins in Tanga City, Nilo Forest Nature Reserves in its Eastern side, Magamba Nature Forest Reserve in Lushoto, Chome Nature Forest Reserves and Mkomazi National Park along the way to Arusha.
Supporting Facilities
Accommodation facilities available:
“Home to Elephant Shrew”
Chome Nature Forest Reserve (CNFR) covering a total area of 14,283 hectares is situated at Same District along the ridges and peaks of the South Pare Mountains with Shengena Peak (2,462masl) as the highest point of the mountain.
Chome has two viewpoints, Duma and Gonjanza. From Duma viewpoint, Mkomazi National Park and Ndungu/Kalemawe Lake in Tanzania can clearly be seen. Furthermore, Taita Hills and Tsavo National Park in Kenya are clearly visible. At Gonjanza viewpoint, the sisal plantations along the Arusha - Dar es Salaam highway and the towns of Makanya and Hedaru are clearly visible.
Ecotourism Activities
Visitors can enjoy bird watching, hiking, trekking, and swimming; butterfly trailing, photographing, camping and picnicking. Other activities include: Experiencing Pare tribe cultures and traditions such as traditional music dancing and tasting local brew, conducting research and educational tours. Visitors normally trek to Shengena peak to acclimatize before climbing Mt Kilimanjaro.
Accessibility
This reserve is easily accessible by road from either Arusha/Kilimanjaro or Dar Es Salaam via Same town. There is also a route to the reserve from Makanya on the highway to south of Same town.
Other Tourist Attractions near Chome Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Chome Nature Forest Reserve are Magamba, Nilo, and Amani Nature Forest Reserves, Mkomazi and Kilimanjaro National
Supporting Facilities
Visitors can camp in the reserve, while other accommodation facilities can be found at Same town.
“Lake Ngosi with a crater lake in a shape of African Continent”
Mount Rungwe Nature Forest Reserve is one of the best tourist destinations in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania covering an area of 24,680 ha. The reserve is situated in Rungwe District, Mbeya Region and was named after Rungwe Mountain which harbors several endemic flora and fauna. The reserve is synonymous with Lake Ngosi, the second largest Crater Lake in Africa and the leading tourist attraction in the reserve. The lake is situated at the top of Mt. Rungwe forming the highest peak in the Southern Highland of Tanzania.
Alongside Lake Ngosi, other tourist attractions found within Mount Rungwe Nature Reserve are the rare red colobus monkeys known as Rungwe Cebus and locally named "Kipunji"; the bamboo belt; the flowing rivers of Kiwira, Kibisi and the spectacular view of the rift valley.
Ecotourism Activities
Numerous activities can be done in the reserve such as bird watching, mountain trekking, game viewing and photographing, camping and picnicking, nature viewing and meditation, cultural and traditional activities like worshiping.
Accessibility
Visitors to the reserve from Dar es salaam may take a flight or a public bus or TAZARA trail to Mbeya City. From Mbeya to the reserve there is a distance of 22km.
Other Tourist Attractions near Mt. Rungwe Nature Forest Reserve
Other tourist attractions found near Mt. Rungwe Nature Forest Reserve are Livingstone Mountains and Kitulo National Park (east of the reserve), Mbozi Meteorite (Kimondo) found in Songwe Region, 72 km from Mbeya, Kalambo Nature Forest Reserve about 397 km from Mbeya via Sumbawanga, Mpanga Kipengele Game Reserve about 101 km from Mbeya on the highway to Dar es salaam..
Supporting Facilities
The place has several sites suitable for camping and holding picnics, accommodation facilities are available at Tukuyu Township and Mbeya City.
The reserve is located in North Eastern part of Tanzania within Lushoto and Korogwe Districts of Tanga Region. The reserve area is part of West Usambara Mountain Ranges. Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is uniquely identified by a German cave and oldest skyline in East Africa as well as a fascinating stone with a human being foot step, known as “Jiwe la Mungu”. This stone as well as Kiguluhakwea and Kwehondo stones, provide spectacular viewpoints. Other attractions are old German cave, oldest Skyline in East Africa; waterfalls at Mkusu and Sungwi; Grewal pond; moths and butterflies of unique attractive colors; and astonishing landscape.
Accessibility
The reserve can be reached by private self-drive car or by taking public coaches plying the route of Dar es Salaam City and Lushoto, 339.3 kilometers. Visitors from Arusha City 310.8 kilometers have to come up to Lushoto town then proceed to Magamba head Office some 9 kilometers.
Other Tourist Attractions near Magamba Nature Forest Reserve
Other nearby tourist attractions are Amani Nature Forest Reserve, Nilo Nature Forest Reserve, Sadaan National Park. Coming from Arusha, the tourist attractions Lake Duluti Forest Reserve, Meru Usa Plantation, Chome Nature Forest Reserve, Arusha National Park, Kilimanjaro National Park, Bwawa la Mungu, Mkomazi National Park.
Supporting Facilities
In the reserve there are Camping sites available. Other accommodations like hotels, lodges and rest houses are available at Lushoto town about 9 kilometers.
Ecotourism Activities
Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is perfect for; hiking, historical site visiting, camping, forest walk, photographing, research and educational tours, bird watching, cold swimming in the waterfall plunge pool.
Meru/Usa forest plantation has attractions for tourism such as
Eco –Tours on offer;
Meru Forest Plantation Tour (Half Day)
Visitors get an opportune time to visit one of its kind forest plantations, partly with planted forest and the other big part consisting of natural montane forest. Guides of the forest will brief you about the forest plantation and the community living around. You will take a walk to the plantation’s nursery where attendants are busy mixing potting ingredients. Learn how to do soil mixing, pot filling, weeding, watering and root pruning for the trees at the nursery. Participate in the transplanting exercise and listen carefully to the procedures it takes to plant a forest tree for high yield in timber production before planting yours. After planting get to know how foresters harvest trees and process different parts for different uses by visiting the sawmill workshop at the plantation.
Sambasha Hill hiking (Half Day)
The tour starts at the tree nursery where visitors learn various activities conducted by Meru-Usa Forest Plantation from planting to harvesting of forest trees for timber. Visitors get an opportune time to plant a tree –making this world a better place to live. You will take a walk in the forest plantation for a short-while and then enter a natural forest on the slopes of Sambasha hill that offers a panoramic view of nearby villages and Arusha city. On the way one will encounter Black and white colobus monkeys, Blue monkeys, forest antelopes and singing forest birds and beautiful flowers of the mountain. On top of the Sambasha hill learn bee-keeping and enjoy your drinks/bites at Sambasha picnic site under thick forest.
Themi River Waterfalls Tour (Half Day)
Starting at Oldonyo Sapuk village panoramic view of Arusha town, you will walk along the forest plantation and descend to the river valley through a little bit challenging slopes for about 15 minutes. Follow the river bed with your water proof shoes or slippers to where the waterfall is located. Listen to hundreds of tails on what local people believe about the falls, locally named by Maasai ‘NAVURU’. After enjoying the falls, start your journey back, through the river bed and then a short hike up.
Visitors are advised to bring walking shoes and slipper, walking sticks are provided by the Meru Forest Eco-tourism office (Hot lunch/traditional food prepared and served by women living around the bordering village/Maasai BBQ can be arranged)
Forest Bird Watching Tour (Half Day)
During this tour you have an opportune time to identify and watch different kinds of birds from highlands forest bird species to seasonal migratory birds that visit our forest and nearby local farms from time to time. The melodious sound of birds and other insects will multiply your joy and increase your relaxation in a natural world of its own kind. Our bird watching experience can start from any point of interest depending on what will be a combination and time for the tour.
Mt. Meru Forest Cycling Tour (Half day)
Explore the forest on 2 wheels! Join our guided bicycle adventure on the slopes of Mt. Meru!
Our cycling tour may cover 10 - 15 km alongside the forest, on the southern part of Mt. Meru where one can see various primates such as baboons, monkeys, Black and white colobus monkeys as well as various species of birds and flowers. Bike rides start from the forest’s main gate. You will enjoy the landscape full of fresh and crispy air from the forest on your ride and then extend to the local village settlements and farms to learn local agricultural practices – you can opt to hike down the river gorge to take natural shower at one of our majestic waterfalls. At the end of the bicycle tour a delicious local food is provided, and you will be part of our daily business of making Mt. Meru always green – visit the nursery and plant a tree
Silent Mt. Meru Natural Forest Walk and Meditation
Do you want to escape the stressful noises of your everyday life?
Do you want to feel nature, allow your senses to absorb what nature offers, happier and rejuvenated?
Your only choice, join Mt. Meru Forest Silent walk - special tour ever offered by professionals in Northern Tanzania!
The program involves a real silent walk through the forest and experience nature at its best, the tour will benefit you both physically and mentally. Be in close contact with the Forest and its wild life. Listen to the natural sounds and music of the surrounding nature: the melodious songs of the montane forest birds, the guttural uttering of the monkeys and the whispers of the wind. Breathe the crispy, fresh forest air and dive into the healing smell of beautiful flowers. Watch the butterflies as they decorate the forest. Let your mind become peaceful and quiet. Be part of nature!
Picnic sites
Spectacular picnic sites are available for those bring their drinks and bush lunch. The sites are installed with basic facilities for your adventure. We apply the principle of ‘TRASH-IN TRASH –OUT’. Visitors are advised to avoid littering in the forest
Community Activities
Our forest is surrounded by local community mostly known as Wameru and Waarusha tribe. You have a great opportunity to interact with locals during your visit as well as learning their way of life. Visit different sites used for rituals and other tribal activities in the forest and listen to hair raising stories from the warriors, women and children born and raised in the rural villages
Village Cultural Tour (half day)
Take an opportune time to visit the local people, sing and dance with them and learn about their life style in typical African villages. Your local guide from the community will lead you to a massive fig tree used by Maasai (Illarusa dialect) as holy worshiping site. Listen to stories about what local people believe about these majestic trees and learn how they give their offerings to their gods. The tour proceeds to local farms, Maasai homes, herbalist and midwife who will spend their glorious time with you sharing their traditional knowledge how they prescribe, identify the right medication to cure local people using local plants. The tour ends with a traditional lunch prepared by Naramatisho women group. The tour is also combined with visit to local schools to learn about our education systems as well as other community projects
Tanzanian Food Cooking Experience (half day)
This tour is perfect for those who are interested in learning how to cook different types of local food. The dishes, that you learn to prepare, are always included in our tour packages. You will be involved from the first step of buying the ingredients at the local market or collecting ingredients from the garden/farm then cooking in a typical African kitchen in the traditional way to the last step of serving the delicious food. A wide range of mouth watering dishes can be part of the lesson such as cooking Makande, Ugali, different vegetable with cone, beans or banana and banana stew. Your tour guide will be there to explain each and everything from the first to the last step.
Itineraries and packages can be tailored according to time, level of fitness, comfort and other purposes as per individual needs!
Special activities and evening programmes visitors staying overnight
While enjoying a relaxed vibe of the forest and local villages taste a locally produced wine or beer and a Maasai barbeque. The evening goes with sharing stories about the forest, the people and their traditional lifestyles with off course some relaxation and listening songs and music from the forest stars, the birds and primates
Things to do:
Walking safaris, Forest hiking, Meditation, Bird watching, Forest silent walk, Forest Farm activities, Tree planting, Forest cycling, Visiting view points, Waterfall walks, Acclimatization trekking for those planning to conquer Mt. Meru & Kilimanjaro, picnic, cultural tourism activities such as coffee tour, visiting the medicine men, Maasai dance, visits to ritual sites and villages nestled on the slopes of Mount Meru
Where to stay;
One rest house with 5 beds is available for visitors at the forest plantation office. Camping ground installed with Modern facilities is available. All our accommodation options guarantees a hot water shower, modern toilets accompanied by outstanding customer service Eco-Tour Guides: Our Eco-tour guides are from the local communities surrounding the Meru Forest who knows well the area, their culture, history and speaks good English. However, there is a wide range of accommodation facilities in the town of Arusha and its outskirts that meet different levels of comfort, budget and quality of service desired by customers
Getting there:
Meru Forest Eco-tourism Coordination office is locates 12 kms North-West of Arusha town. A number of commuters (locally known as dala dala) ply the way from Arusha to Ngaramtoni. From Ngaramtoni one can take a tax or walk through the Forest road heading north for about 30 minutes to Meru Forest Eco-tourism office.
Vikindu Forest Reserve offers best nature trails for walking. The forest offers long and…
There are some camps that are under construction, so after the construction is over the…
Inside the hot spring park tourists are allowed to walk from one place to another given…
Since the reservoir has a dam then hook fishing can be done throughout the year. The…
With the presence of attractions such as hot springs, cold water ponds and grasses that…
The tourist can opt to choose either short or long route for hiking where the hiking…
We real connect you with nature while travelling to natural areas for the purpose of…
RFR is the ideal place for cycling which offers a very good and spectacular environment…
RFR is rich in biodiversity with high endemism of flora and fauna, high water catchment…
The area is very favorable for walking, an area are very plain with water streams during…
TFS Utalii West Kilimanjaro offers a very good and spectacular environment for cyclers…
We offer a very good and spectacular environment for cyclers motor and none motorcycles.…
West Kilimanjaro has the natural forest part which is rich in biodiversity characterised…
For the cold environment horse rider can conduct that activities in the infrastructured…
We offer camping services both tented camps and mobile tents for visitors inside and…
West Kilimanjaro has a great potential where by before climbing Mount Kilimanjaro you can…
Other potentials is Forest Drive in West Kilimanjaro Forest Reserve and Game driving via…
Tourists can travel within a lake for a maximum of 3 hours.There is a plent of canoes…
This is a kind of fishing for refreshment as a visitor will move in the shore or across a…
Forest nature walking takes place through a small trail which pass through the whole…
The visitor will see and enjoy spectacular natural and cultural landscape of the ancient…
The Tembe consists numbers of rooms with fascinating history.This include the slaves…
It is incredible opportunity to visit the ancient stone–town of Kaole that was…
Kaole is rich in natural mangrove vegetation that provide glimpse of the beauty and…
Bird watching at Kaole is a rewarding experience with a mosaic of birds from both marine…
Kaole is a small fishing village next to the Indian Ocean, its people rely extensively on…
Kaole Ruins as one of the earliest Swahili civilization sites offer remarkable…
The most typical music preference of Swahili people is Taarab music which is a fusion of…
Kaole Ruins offer spectacular opportunity for camping activities. The site has attractive…
This is another amazing service offered at Kaole Ruins where visitors undertake…
Kaole is considered a holy place where visitors get opportunity to visit and pray at the…
The tourists need 2-5 hours to calmly explore stone town and enjoyed it more. During the…
The tourist will get the tour concern on the history of Bagamoyo before and after…
The all attraction in Bagamoyo historical town are accessible, So the tour maybe planned…
Bagamoyo stone town is the old town. You can do filming in the beautiful architectural…
Bagamoyo conservation area is rich in cultural heritage resources. Research in the site…
Enhance your safari with stay at Bagamoyo stone town overnight. The site offers the best…
The dominant tribe of Bagamoyo are zaramo and kwere and their famous traditional…
At Kolo Complex we have two hundred (200m) for hiking and trekking within Irangi…
Walking Safari is becoming popular now days to most of visitors, they can conduct walking…
A combination of both cultural, natural and historical attractions can breed a very…
Kondoa Rock Art Paintings offers a very good and spectacular environment for cyclers…
Walking under forest canopy can take someone’s day. Mduleni Trail: One of the best…
One of the interesting activities is the hiking from mduleni to Daweni view then to the…
Api tourism is among of the most preferred activity in Pindiro Nature Reserve, it can…
While viewing hippos and enjoying the scenery of Nyange dam, Visitors can also do sport…
This activity is done because there are important features that facilitate nature…
The reserve have permanent natural dams such as Minaki dam,The dam are sources of water…
PKNFR have campsites for camping, and there are luxury tents with different sizes which…
PKNFR is a best place for working safaris to see different attractions through…
PKNFR is a home to a wide range of endemic and rare bird species. There are tour…
PKNFR is one of the best areas for conducting field research and training on ecology and…
There is a very welianing and accommodating picnic sit in the area where the visitor get…
Kalambo fall have unique and suitable temperature that makes visitor experience the…
One among recreational activity that visitor get to do as there is viewing vinall monkey…
Alongside the way to kalambo falls there are forests reserves that provide fresh air that…
Kalambo water fall is a product of a rift valley as a result of vertical crack that…
Miziro Nature Forest Reserve has one camping site Kere hill where visitors can camp…
The reserve have one camping site and there are also total of 14 km of nature trails…
Birds found in Minziro are Guinea-Congo biome restricted, 58 of the 245 bird species…
The forest contains more than 600 butterfly species, surpassing any other forest in…
MHNFR is a best place one can hike. The area offers long and short hikes ranging from 3…
Mount Hanang’ Nature Forest Reserve offers camping services, mobile tents for…
Within and outside MHNFR tourism activities like Traditional dances, Traditional…
MHNFR is rich in biodiversity characterized with high endemism of flora and fauna, high…
Mount Hanang’ Nature Forest Reserve is home to a wide range of endemic, rare and…
Night walking is becoming very popular now days to most of the visitors, one can conduct…
a. Manjonda Trail: This route is a 3.7 km and it takes one hours to…
Rondo Nature Forest Reserveis home to a wide range of endemic, rare and endangered…
Night walk is becoming very popular now days to most of the visitors, one can conduct a…
A combination of both nature and culture can breed a very wonderful and amazing…
KNFR is a best place one can hike. The area offers long and short hikes ranging from 3…
KNFR have a significant areas cutting through the spectacular and very attractive rock…
KNFR is a catchment forest with beautiful hydrological features, whereby most of the and…
KNFR is rich in biodiversity characterized with high endemism of flora and fauna, high…
Kilombero Nature Forest Reserve is home to a wide range of endemic, rare and endangered…
A combination of both nature and culture can raise a very wonderful and amazing…
UNFR covered with mountains and peaks with different distance, so it is a best place one…
Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve contains varieties, host rare and endemic birds species. It…
In order to reach various attractions and physical features in the Reserve,visitors must…
At Hululu waterfalls there is a swimming opportunity for visitors as Uluguru NFR is a…
UNFR offers camping services to visitors in terms of hiring of government tents and…
In UNFR we practice cultural tourism from the reserve and communities adjacent to Nature…
Uluguru Nature Forest Reserve is an important biodiversity area rich with rare, endemic…
Different types of birds are found inside of the reserve and ten species of birds are…
In hiking there are three main trail namely Nilo peak which is the highest peak, lutindi…
Camping: there are two campsites at chura campsite and Denmark campsite which are located…
According to the research done by Frontier-Tanzania 2002, the reserve has highest…
In hiking there are three main trail namely Nilo peak which is the highest peak,…
Hiking through Amani NFR mountain is very attractive activities, there are three trails…
Amani Nature Forest Reserve is home to a wide range of endemic, rare and endangered bird…
Amani Nature Forest Reserve also provide the Bonfire were tourist/visitors can start fire…
Now days night walking is becoming very popular to most of the tourist, one can conduct a…
Slopes of a Nature Reserve is a catchment forest with beautiful hydrological features,…
There are number of excellent hiking trail through the reserves forest, example hiking to…
Chome NFR is the best place one can walk. The area offers long and short walks ranging…
Chome NFR is an excellent place and recognized as an important bird area in the region…
Getting to know a places history and culture is referred to as cultural tourism. Tourists…
The MRNFR offers long and short hikes ranging from 3 hours to 6 hours a day through the…
The Reserve has sites for camping services to visitors in terms of hiring of tents from…
The tourist can able to observe the different species of birds, either as a recreational…
Slopes of a Mount Rungwe Nature Reserve is a catchment forest with beautiful hydrological…
The tourist can be able to conduct walking safari within the reserve whereby on the way…
I. Grewal Trail: This route is a 7 km and it takes five hours to hike. It is an ideal…
Magamba Nature Forest Reserve offers a very good and spectacular environment for cycling…
Through several mountain peaks found in MNFR skydiving can well be arranged and enjoyed…
Lager part of MNFR is cutting though the spectacular and very attractive rock cliffs of…
MNFR is a catchment forest with beautiful hydrological features whereby most of the towns…
MNFR is rich in biodiversity characterised with high endemism of flora and fauna, high…
Night walk is becoming very popular now days to most of the visitors. It is permitted to…
Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is home to a wide range of endemic, rare and endangered…
A combination of both nature and culture can breed a very wonderful and amazing…
Currently there are no horse riding services in the Usambara Mountains and MNFR in…
The tour starts early from Napuru Picnic Site to Narok Waterfalls at Narok Range. Takes…
This steep trail starts from Sanawari via Oldonyosapuk village to Napuru Waterfalls. It…
Hike to Mysterious Napuru waterfalls through nature trail walk while doing Bird watching.…
During this tour you have an opportune time to identify and watch different kinds of…
Explore the forest on 2 wheels! Join our guided bicycle adventure on the slopes of Mt.…
Do you want to escape the stressful noises of your everyday life? Do you want to feel…
Spectacular picnic sites are vaialable for those bring their drinks and bush lunch. The…
Take an opportune time to visit the local people, sing and dance with them and learn…
The area provide an amazing experience of outdoor recreation activity in tents,…
Meru forest is rich in biodiversity of flora and fauna that makes as an ideal place for…