The Eastern Arc Mountains is the collective name used to describe a chain of mountain ranges in Kenya and Tanzania that are influenced by the climate of the Indian Ocean. Blanketed in ancient forests, which support literally thousands of taxa found nowhere else in the world, it is believed that the Eastern Arcs have survived for more than 30 million years and were once connected to the forests of the Congo Basin and West Africa. Neighboring mountains are much younger: For example, Kilimanjaro is estimated to be about 1 million-2 million years old.
The Udzungwa Mountains National Park, 37 mi/60 km south of Mikumi, is the most accessible part of the Eastern Arc in Tanzania, and its beautiful peaks rise up from the western edge of the Selous Game Reserve. The views are incredible and guided walks lead through sunshine-dappled glades surrounded by giant trees, their buttresses covered with mosses, lichens and ferns.
The national park protects more than 2,500 plant species of which 160 are used locally as medicinal plants. More than 300 animal species have been recorded, including 18 vertebrate species found only in the Eastern Arc Mountains. There are also numerous monkeys and forest antelopes. Of the 250 species of birds, endemics include the rufous winged sunbird and Udzungwa partridge. Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp (also known as Hondo Hondo) at the entrance offers all activities.
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