Southern Highlands

12 Days Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari Combo

12 Days Birding Safari in Tanzania

10 Days Wildlife Kenya and Tanzania Safari

10 Days Safari in Uganda and Tanzania

10 Days Kilimanjaro Climb via Northern Circuit Route

The Southern Highlands are not a Big Five destination. There are no lions roaming the tea plantations. But the wildlife here is unique, rare, and fascinating. On a Tanzania safari, the star is the kipunji monkey, also known as the Highland mangabey. It was only discovered in 2003, making it one of the most recently identified monkey species in Africa. It lives in the high canopy of the Rungwe forests and is extremely endangered . You are unlikely to see it, but your guide will tell you the stories. The forests are also home to the Abbott's duiker, a shy forest antelope. In the Kitulo National Park, large mammals are rare, but you might see eland and reedbuck grazing on the open grasslands . On a Tanzania safari, the Mpanga-Kipengere Game Reserve is a haven for smaller mammals: bushbucks, duikers, baboons, and the klipspringer, an antelope that lives on the rocky cliffs . The real draw, however, is the birding.

Birders, this is one of the most important regions in Africa. The Southern Highlands are an Important Bird Area (IBA), and they host several species that live nowhere else. On a Tanzania safari, the Kipengere seedeater and the Njombe cisticola are endemic to these highlands . The blue swallow is a rare migrant that breeds here. The denham's bustard, a large, stately bird, stalks the grasslands of Kitulo . On a Tanzania safari, the montane forests are home to the bar-tailed trogon, the mountain buzzard, and the white-winged apalis. The best time for birding is during the wet season from November to April, when the birds are breeding and singing. But the dry season is also good, as the foliage is thinner and the birds are easier to spot. On a Tanzania safari, bring a spotting scope. The grasslands are vast, and the birds are often distant.

The best time to visit the Southern Highlands depends on what you want to see. For the famous flowers of Kitulo National Park, you must visit during the rainy season. The "Garden of God" is at its peak from November to April, when over 350 species of plants burst into bloom, including 45 types of orchids . For hiking and trekking, the dry season from June to October is best. The trails are less muddy, the skies are clearer, and the views of the Livingstone Mountains are spectacular . On a Tanzania safari, the temperatures are cooler, making walking comfortable. The wet season can be cold and rainy, with temperatures dropping to near freezing at night . For most travelers, the sweet spot is the shoulder seasons of October to November or April to May. The rains are less intense, but the flowers are still present.

The weather in the Southern Highlands is temperate and cool. This is not the hot, humid coast. On a Tanzania safari, the altitude makes all the difference. The town of Njombe sits at 1,921 meters, and Kitulo National Park is at 2,600 meters . At these heights, daytime temperatures are pleasant, around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). At night, the temperature can drop to near freezing, especially from June to August . The region receives significant rainfall, with some areas being the wettest in Tanzania . Even in the dry season, you can expect afternoon mists and the occasional shower. On a Tanzania safari, the biggest surprise for visitors is the cold. Pack warm layers, including a fleece or a light down jacket for the early mornings and evenings. The sun is less intense than on the coast, but you can still get sunburned at high altitude. Wear a hat and sunscreen.

Getting to the Southern Highlands is an adventure, but the roads are good. The main gateway is the city of Mbeya. On a Tanzania safari, Songwe Airport (MBI) is the closest airport, with flights from Dar es Salaam on Air Tanzania and Precision Air . From the airport, it is a scenic drive into the highlands. You can also take the TAZARA railway, which connects Dar es Salaam to Mbeya and Zambia . The journey is long, but it is a classic African experience. On a Tanzania safari, most travelers drive from Iringa or Mbeya. The roads are paved and in good condition. The drive from Iringa to Njombe takes about three hours. The drive from Mbeya to Kitulo takes about two hours. Once you are in the highlands, you will need a 4x4 to reach the more remote parks and waterfalls. On a Tanzania safari, your tour operator will arrange all transport. The roads are winding and steep, but the views are stunning.

The Southern Highlands are a safe destination. The local communities are welcoming. On a Tanzania safari, the main dangers are environmental, not criminal. The biggest risk is the weather. Hypothermia is possible if you are not dressed properly for the cold, wet conditions. Pack layers. Bring a good waterproof jacket. On a Tanzania safari, the second risk is the terrain. The trails can be slippery and steep. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Malaria is a low risk at these altitudes, but it is present in the lower valleys. Bring insect repellent. In the towns of Iringa, Njombe, and Mbeya, use normal precautions. Keep your valuables secure. Avoid walking alone at night. The people are friendly, but it is always wise to be aware of your surroundings.

Accommodation in the Southern Highlands ranges from rustic campsites to comfortable lodges. On a Tanzania safari, the most famous is the Utengule Coffee Lodge near Mbeya. It is a beautiful property on a working coffee plantation, with stunning views of the Rift Valley . In Njombe, the Highland Chef Restaurant and Njombe Social Club offer mid-range rooms . For a truly unique experience, stay at the Mwakipembo Public Campsite inside Kitulo National Park. It has basic facilities, including toilets and showers. Camping under the stars in the "Garden of God" is unforgettable. On a Tanzania safari, for a touch of history, visit the old German Boma in Njombe, built in 1906, which now serves as a government office but is a striking piece of colonial architecture . On a Tanzania safari, book well in advance, especially during the dry season.

Booking your Tanzania safari to the Southern Highlands with Dav Safaris ensures a safe, well organized, and unforgettable experience. Our local guides know the best trails in Kitulo, the hidden waterfalls in the Mpanga-Kipengere Reserve, and the best coffee in Njombe. On a Tanzania safari with Dav Safaris, we handle everything including transport from Mbeya or Iringa, park fees, guides, and accommodation. You just show up with your camera and your hiking boots. Their itineraries are flexible. Want to focus on the orchids of Kitulo? We can do that. Want to combine a trek in the highlands with a safari in Ruaha National Park, which is just a few hours away? We can arrange it. Dav Safaris supports local communities by hiring Tanzanian guides and using locally owned lodges. You focus on the rolling hills, the cool air, and the wildflowers. We handle everything else on your Tanzania safari.