My Experience Hiking Mt. Rungwe
Mt. Rungwe summit, Photo by Shah Mjanja.
Mount Rungwe symbolizes the wild beauty of Tanzania's southern highlands. My recent trip to this incredible location was more than a trek; it was a journey through a world of biodiversity that has left an indelible impact on my heart.
Nestled in the Rungwe district of Mbeya, Southwest Tanzania, Mount Rungwe Nature Forest Reserve is a treasure trove of unique species and vibrant ecosystems. This area was designated as a catchment forest in 1949 and later upgraded to a nature forest reserve in 2009; it is managed by the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) and plays an important role in conservation efforts both regionally and globally.
The southeastern slopes of these mountains receive up to 3 meters (9.8 ft) of rainfall a year, the highest rainfall in Tanzania. The mountain harbors several rare and endangered species. One of the most notable is the Kipunji (Rungwecebus kipunji), a species discovered only in 2003 and found exclusively in this region. In the 2008 census, WCS recorded a total population of just 1,117 individuals, and as a consequence, the kipunji was classified by the IUCN Red List as 'critically endangered'.
Our journey began in Mbeya town. My friends Shah, Mohamed "Mo," and I started on a two-hour drive that was filled with anticipation. Although the trip typically takes about 80 minutes, we made a few delightful stops along the way to gather supplies for our overnight Nyama Choma barbeque—an essential part of any Tanzanian outdoor adventure.
Upon arriving at the Syakula Rangers post, we completed our registration and took a short 1 km walk to the Abasi Kandolo campsite. The TFS staff prepared our canvas tents and ground mattresses, ensuring we were well-rested for the adventure ahead.
Later that afternoon, we had a little walk through the forest, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and preparing for the task that awaited us the next day.
Hike Day
We started our trek at 8:50 a.m., led by Mo. The paths, while less frequent, were manageable with careful attention. The hike itself was moderate-to-strength, with a combination of mild ascents and intense descents. As we increased, we went through a variety of plants, each more intriguing than the previous. From the lush lower montane forest to the breezy heath, the environment was a vibrant tapestry of nature's beauties.
Hiking trials
Along the way, I managed to observe bird species like Livingstone's Turaco, Evergreen-forest Warbler, Bar-tailed Trogon, and Southern Yellow White-Ease, the family of rare Rungwecebus kipunji, and the colobus monkeys, adding a layer of enchantment to our trek. Discovered only in 2003, the Rungwecebus kipunji is found exclusively in this region and is classified as 'critically endangered' by the IUCN Red List, with a 2008 census recording just 1,117 individuals. Knowing these incredible creatures are both endangered and endemic made every sighting even more special.
Summiting Mount Rungwe at around 2:05 p.m. was a triumph. The clear views stretched over the Kipengere (Livingstone) range, and despite the chill and wind, the experience was profoundly rewarding. As I stood at the peak, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of accomplishment. The volcanic soil beneath my feet, a reminder of the mountain's dormant volcanic nature, hinted at the geological history that shaped this fertile region.
After absorbing the moment, taking photographs, and having some snacks, we began our descent. The journey back to the campsite took roughly four hours, for a total of 10 hours and 12.64 miles. By 6:10 p.m., we were packed and ready to travel to Matema, Kyela.
Hiking Mount Rungwe provides several chances. Whether you're an explorer, a scholar, or simply a nature lover, this trip will be memorable.
When to Visit
Hiking Mount Rungwe is a full-day trip and it is accessible year-round, but the best time to hike is from May to October during the dry season. This ensures that the trails are less slippery and the summit views are clear, though mists and light rain can still add to the mystical atmosphere.
Have you ever hiked Mount Rungwe? I would love to hear about your experience!
Are you interested in exploring Mount Rungwe? Contact us today to start planning your trip and experience the attractions of Tanzania's southern highlands firsthand.
