Udzungwa Forest Camp (Hondo Hondo)

Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp, affectionately known in the region as "Hondo Hondo" (which means "Hornbill" in Swahili), directly borders the stunning Udzungwa Mountains National Park in the Kilombero Valley of Southern Tanzania. The name says it all: the camp is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially for observing the eponymous hornbills that live here in astonishing numbers. Hondo Hondo's lush green grounds are situated at the edge of the pristine rainforest, offering excellent views of the dense forest canopy – a setting that invites you to dream.

What Awaits You at Udzungwa Forest Camp (Hondo Hondo)

This camp is a must for any nature lover wanting to experience the unique biodiversity of the Udzungwa Mountains. The forest is home to several fascinating primate species, including the endemic Udzungwa Red Colobus, the remarkable Sanje Crested Mangabey, and the black and white Colobus monkey. Imagine sitting by the campfire in the evening as flocks of various hornbill species fly over the forest edge at sunset, settling in the trees and sounding their distinctive calls. This is pure nature magic! I've heard many sounds in the African bush, but the calls of hornbills in this density are something truly special.

Your Accommodation

• Type: The camp likely offers a mix of comfortable en-suite tented chalets and perhaps more traditional huts that blend harmoniously into the natural surroundings.
• Facilities: Expect functional and cozy furnishings designed to provide you with a pleasant stay amidst nature. Mosquito nets are essential here. The focus is on the nature experience.
• Highlight: The immediate proximity to the rainforest and the excellent opportunities for wildlife and bird watching directly from the camp. The "excellent views of the forest canopy" are a daily gift.

Food & Drinks

In an eco-lodge oriented camp like Hondo Hondo, you can expect down-to-earth, tasty cuisine that often uses local ingredients. The restaurant and bar likely offer beautiful views into the forest or onto the camp grounds and are a sociable meeting place to exchange the day's experiences.

Nature Experiences & Activities

Udzungwa Mountains National Park and its surroundings are the main focus:

• Guided Hikes in the National Park: The park is primarily known for hiking, not classic vehicle safaris. There are various trails leading to spectacular waterfalls (e.g., Sanje Falls) and through dense montane rainforest, always with the chance of spotting primates and rare birds.
• Bird Watching: With an incredible diversity of species, including many endemics and of course the hornbills, this is a top destination for ornithologists.
• Primate Tracking: Look out for the rare and endemic primate species that call this forest home.
• Relaxation at Camp: Enjoy the tranquility, listen to the sounds of the forest, and observe the wildlife that visits the camp grounds.

Location of Udzungwa Forest Camp (Hondo Hondo)

The camp is located in the Kilombero Valley, right on the edge of Udzungwa Mountains National Park, near the village of Mang'ula. The approximate coordinates are -7.8530 latitude and 36.8800 longitude. This location makes it an ideal base for hikes and explorations in the national park.

Part of Your Tanzania Journey

A stay at Udzungwa Forest Camp (Hondo Hondo) is a unique addition to a Southern Tanzania safari, especially if you are interested in biodiversity, hiking, bird and primate watching. It offers a completely different experience from the savanna parks and allows you to get to know the fascinating world of East Africa's montane rainforests. A must for every naturalist at heart!