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The little known Usambara
Mountains are one of Tanzania's
gems and a relict patch
of the great tropical rainforests
that once spanned Africa
from the Atlantic to the
Indian Ocean.
Situated in the northeastern
part of Tanzania between
Mount Kilimanjaro and the
Indian Ocean Region of Tanga,
they are a treasure house
of botanical and zoological
diversity. Dubbed the "Galapagos"
of the plant world, the
Usambara's have a huge number
of endemic tree and plant
species which makes them
a hiking, birding and primate-spotting
paradise.
This incredibly beautiful
and lush area which also
has some spectacular driving
is a welcome retreat from
Tanzania’s Game Parks
and cities. Because of its
pleasant climate, the mountains
were favored by the Germans
and the English during colonial
times, as is evidenced by
the numerous historic buildings
from the past.
From a distance the mountains
are a colorful mosaic. On the
fertile slopes around Soni and
Lushoto farmers cultivate small
plots but further away from the
towns large areas are still covered
by dense tropical forests. The
viewpoints on the southern and
western side of the Usambara are
well known for the spectacular
views of the plains of Mkomazi
and Handeni. Kilimanjaro can be
seen on the horizon and at the
end of the day the sunset turns
the area into a tremendous pallet
of unforgettable colors. |
