Tourist activities in Kitulo National Park : Kitulo National Park is one of the national parks located in the montane grassland and montane forest on the Kitulo Plateau in the southern highlands of Tanzania. The park is at an elevation of 2,600 metres (8,500 ft) between the peaks of the Kipengere and Poroto mountains and covers an area of 412.9 square kilometres (159.4 sq mi), lying in Mbeya Region and Njomb Region. The park is managed by Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) and is the first national park in tropical African to be established primarily to protect its flora. Kitulo National Park was officially gazetted on July 19, 2005. The establishment of this park was instrumental in preserving its distinct ecosystem and species, particularly due to the increasing threats from agricultural encroachment and habitat degradation. The was created primarily to protect the rich biodiversity of the Kitulo National Park, particularly its numerous orchids species. Before being designated a national park, the area was recognized for the ecological significance and had declared a nature reserve in 2002. However, there area many activities visitors can enjoy or participate while in a safari in Kitulo National Park and we are going to discuss some of the most popular activities such as;
Game viewing
Game viewing in Kitulo National Park offers visitors the chance to see a rich array of wildlife in their natural habitat. wile the park is famously known for its floral diversity, it is also home to variety of animals including antelope’s species such as the endangered Kudu and roan antelopes, which can be spotted roaming the grasslands. During you game drive safari, you will also have the chance to spot other mammals’ species that dwell in the park such as cape buffalo, elephants, leopards and African wild dogs and other reptile species among others. The park’s open plains, offer clear sightlines for observation animals as they interact with their environment, particularly during the early mornings and late afternoon when wildlife is most active. Guided game drives in the park enables tourist to traverse the park’s diverse landscapes, increasing the likelihood of sightings.
Bird watching
Birdwatching in Kitulo National Park is an exhilarating activity for both amateur and experienced travelers. The park boasts more than 200 recorded bird species, making it a vital habitat for an array of birdlife. During your bird watching tours in Kitulo National Park, you’ll have thee chance to spot numerous colorful bird species such as Green-backed Honeybird , Green Wood-hoopoe, Common Hoopoe, Hornbills, Owls, African Fish Eagle, Mountain Buzzard, Pelican, Eagles, Secretary-bird, Osprey, African Paradise-flycatcher, White-necked Raven, Cape Crow, White-rumped Shrike, Long-tailed Fiscal, Grey-headed Bush-shrike, Tropical Boubou, White-crested Helmet-shrike, Grey-crested Helmet-shrike, Von Erlanger’s Batis, Red-fronted Parrot, Lanner Falcon, Greater Kestrel, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Rufous-crowned Roller, White-throated Bee-eater, Olive Bee-eater, Red-and-yellow Barbet and White-headed Barbet among others
Mountain climbing
Mountain climbing in Kitulo National Park presents an exhilarating opportunity for adventure seekers, as the park is nestled at the foot of the spectacular Kitulo Plateau. Although not as prominent as other climbing destinations in Tanzania, the trails offer a unique chance to explore undulating terrains and scenic views. While on a mountain climbing tour in the park, you will be marvelled with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including patches of lush grassland and distant peaks of the southern Highlands. Climbers can also enjoy the charm atmosphere and panoramic views while observing the park’s rich biodiversity, including rare plants species endemic to the region. The seasonal variation in flora adds to the climbing experience, with the blooming of various flowers making different times of the year.
Nature walks
Nature walks in Kitulo National Park offer an immersive experience for visitors keen to explore the park’s unique flora and fauna on foot. The park, often referred to as the “Serengeti of Flowers” features a diverse range of plants species, including stunning orchids and wildflowers that blanket the landscape during the rainy season. During your nature walks tour, you will have the chance to explore through the park’s fragrant meadows, where the vibrant colors and aromas create a sensory feast. Along the trails, you will have the chance to encounter with endemic species and listen to the melodious sounds of local wildlife. The park experienced guides will have you share insights about the ecosystem, helping trekkers appreciate the intricate relationships between plants and animals.
Tourist activities in Kitulo National Park L Flowering viewing
Kitulo National Park is often referred to as the “Serengeti of Flower”, and one of its main attractions is the stunning display of wildflower that bloom during the rainy season from November to April. the park is particularly famous for its rich diversity of orchids, with over 45 species found here, making its a botanist’s paradise. Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes through the lush meadow, where vibrant plant life carpets the landscape, creating breathtaking views. The unique flora attracts both amateur and professional photographers eager to capture the intricate beauty of the blossoming orchids and the striking colors of other endemic plains. Guided tours led by experienced park rangers enhance the experience, offering insights into the unique ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
Tourist activities in Kitulo National Park : Photography safaris
With its breathtaking landscape and diverse wildlife, Kitulo National Park is a haven for photography enthusiast. The park’s unique flora diversity, particularly during the blooming season, draws photographers seeking to capture stunning macro shots of Orchids and other vibrant plant life. The extensive grasslands and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains provide perfect backdrops for landscape photography. During your photographic tours, you will have he chance to capture fascinating park’s fauna including endemic birds and grazing mammals.
Best time to visit Kitulo National Park
The best time to visit Kitulo National Park is during the months of November to April, which is the rainy season in Tanzania. This is when the park comes alive with a riot of colors as thousand of wildflowers bloom cross the landscape. The park is home to over 350 species of plants, including many rare and endemic species that can only be found in this region.
During the rainy season, the park is lush and green, with clear blue skies and cool temperatures that makes for perfect hiking conditions. The wet season also attracts a wide variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatching. In addition to the stunning display of wildflower, visitors to Kitulo National Park during the rainy season may also have the chance to see grazing herds of eland, zebras and other wildlife.
Accommodation facilities in Kitulo National Park
Tourist planning to explore the hidden gems of the Kitulo National Park shouldn’t worry about where to sleep or stay. The park has a variety of accommodation options to cater for its visitors while on a Tanzania safari in Kitulo National Park. This accommodation facilities ranges from luxury, midrange and budget level such as Landmark Hotel Tukuyu Mbeya, Golden City Hotel, Blue Canoe Safari Camp, Matema Lake Shore Resort, Capetown Annex Guest House, Capetown Hotel, Dosmeza Hotel, Hotel Desderia- Mbeya, Impoma Garden Lodge, Karibuni Center Mbeya, Mexons Cliff Hotel, Mbeya Hotel, Midtown Hotel, Royal Tughimbe Hotel among others
Contact our trusted tour operators for information and inquiries about tourist activities to do in Kitulo National Park and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa tours who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania.
