Udzungwa Forest Lodge, known locally as Hondo Hondo (meaning "hornbill" in Swahili due to the amazing number of these birds that make the area their home), is a unique eco-lodge and rustic tented camp situated on the border of the Udzungwa Mountains National Park in the Kilombero Valley of southern Tanzania. Positioned between the western boundary of the National Park and the village of Mang'ula, the lodge is west of Dar es Salaam, not far after Mikumi National Park.
Rooms
The lodge offers a combination of accommodation with six permanent forest en-suite tented rooms and five simple traditional thatched huts (bandas). The tents are spacious canvas rooms situated along or overlooking the forest boundary, well equipped with furniture made from locally available renewable sources like coconut wood and bamboo. Each tent has comfortable spring mattresses, double beds with mosquito nets, private bathroom, solar-powered lighting, solar fan, and power outlet for charging phones/cameras. The open-air bathrooms feature western-style flush toilets, solar-heated rain showers overlooking the forest canopy, and shaver sockets. The simpler huts have just a double bed with mosquito nets, table, chair, solar lights, and power outlet.
Facilities & Dining
The camp features a wonderful Canopy Bar located in a natural clearing at the edge of the forest, an attractive bar and restaurant serving delicious dishes, and a high standard of food. The lodge is powered entirely by a hydro generator with all water heated by solar power, making energy completely sustainable. The lodge uses low-energy LED bulbs for lighting. Facilities include excellent access to wildlife through cooperation with local community, providing employment and support.
Activities
The lodge offers rainforest hiking, waterfall visits, and forest exploration adjacent to pristine rainforest. Guests can enjoy excellent access to Tanzania's remarkable wildlife and landscapes, with opportunities to listen to elephants passing by in the night or tree hyraxes calling in trees while falling asleep. The camp provides great access to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park situated close to National Park Headquarters and main gate at Mangula, making it ideal for exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna.
About
The lodge is ideal for travelers seeking a simple yet cozy experience on the edge of Udzungwa Mountains National Park, those wanting to explore the Udzungwa Mountains and pristine rainforest, and eco-conscious travelers who appreciate sustainable practices and community support. It's perfect for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an excellent change from usual safari accommodations with comfort facilities and great forest views.
Destination
Tanzania Safaris
Style
Camp
