Kitulo National Park

Nestled in the southern highlands of Tanzania lies a breathtaking protected area known as Kitulo National Park. This park, which covers an area of 412.9 square kilometers, is situated between the peaks of the Kipengere and Poroto mountains at an elevation of 2,600 meters. Kitulo National Park is a vital conservation area administered by Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) and is the first national park in tropical Africa established primarily to protect its unique flora.Locally known as “Bustani ya Mungu” (“The Garden of God”), Kitulo Plateau is a montane grassland and montane forest that boasts over 350 species of plants. The park is a botanical wonderland, with numerous ground orchids, geophytes, and other Afroalpine plants dotting the landscape. In fact, botanists have dubbed it the “Serengeti of Flowers.” Between November and April, the park is awash with the vivid colors of blooming flowers, making it a must-see destination for any flower lover.The park’s creation was initially proposed by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in response to the increased hunting and logging activities in the surrounding forests and the growing international trade in orchid tubers. President Benjamin Mkapa announced the establishment of the park in 2002, and it was formally gazetted in 2005. Since then, it has become Tanzania’s fourteenth national park, and TANAPA has stated that it could expand in the future to include the neighboring Mount Rungwe forest.The park is home to the Livingstone Forest, a montane evergreen forest that descends the southwestward-facing slope of the park. This forest is the largest block of forest in the park, and the largest in the Kipengere Range. The Livingstone Forest is home to three limited-range species of mammals, including the endangered Kipunji, Rungwe dwarf galago, and Abbott’s duiker. Additionally, in 2005, a new species of primate was discovered on and around Mount Rungwe and in the Livingstone Forest area of the park. The Kipunji, also known as the Highland Mangabey, is one of the 25 most endangered primates in the world.Finally, the Ndumbi Forest is at the eastern end of Kitulo National Park, including montane evergreen forest and forests of East African Cedar. The forest is also home to a 100-meter waterfall, adding to the park’s natural beauty.Kitulo National Park is a true natural gem, with a unique combination of flora and fauna that is rare to find in any other place in the world. With its stunning scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and fantastic views, it is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.