Kitulo National Park is a national park located in southern Tanzania. It is also known as the “Garden of God” due to its stunning scenery and diverse flora and fauna. The park covers an area of approximately 413 square kilometers and is located in the Kipengere Mountains, which are part of the Eastern Arc Mountains.
The park is known for its high altitude grasslands and is home to a variety of plant species, including over 350 species of vascular plants, many of which are endemic to the region. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including several species of antelope, such as the eland and the kudu, as well as primates, such as the black and white colobus monkey.
Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking and trekking through the grasslands, as well as bird watching and wildlife viewing. It is one of Tanzania safari destinations known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The best time to visit Kitulo National Park is from June to October, when the weather is dry and cool, and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Why Kitulo National Park is known as the Garden Of God?
Kitulo National Park is known as the “Garden of God” due to its stunning natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to a wide variety of plant species, including many rare and endemic species, and is often referred to as a “botanical wonderland.” The park’s high altitude grasslands are covered in wildflowers during the rainy season, creating a colorful and vibrant landscape. The beauty of the park has been compared to that of a garden created by a divine creator, hence the name “Garden of God.” Additionally, the park’s pristine natural environment and rich biodiversity make it a unique and special place that is considered a treasure to be protected and cherished
Wildlife and main attractions in Kitulo National Park
Kitulo National Park is home to a variety of wildlife and offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe rare and endemic species in their natural habitat. Here are some of the main wildlife and attractions in Kitulo National Park:
Birds: Kitulo National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds, including many endemic species, such as the Kipengere seedeater and the Njombe cisticola. The park is also home to several species of raptors, such as the African fish eagle and the augur buzzard.
Antelopes: Kitulo National Park is home to several species of antelopes, including the eland, the kudu, and the bushbuck. These majestic animals can often be seen grazing in the grasslands.
Primates: The Park is home to several species of primates, including the black and white colobus monkey and the vervet monkey. These playful animals can often be seen jumping from tree to tree and playing in the branches.
Wildflowers: Kitulo National Park is known for its stunning displays of wildflowers, which bloom from December to April. The park’s high altitude grasslands are covered in colorful wildflowers, creating a breathtaking landscape.
Hiking and Trekking: The park offers several hiking and trekking trails, which allow visitors to explore the park’s stunning scenery and observe its diverse wildlife. The most popular trail is the Livingstone Trail, which takes visitors through the park’s grasslands and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Overall, Kitulo National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to observe rare and endemic species in a pristine natural environment.
How much is entry to Kitulo National Park?
According to the Tanzania National Parks website (https://www.tanzaniaparks.go.tz/en/parks/kitulo-national-park), the entry fees for Kitulo National Park are as follows:
Non-residents (foreigners): $45 per person per day
Residents of Tanzania: TZS 10,000 per person per day
Citizens of Tanzania: TZS 1,500 per person per day
Welcoming visitors in Kitulo National Park
Kitulo National Park welcomes visitors from all over the world who are interested in exploring its stunning natural beauty and observing its diverse wildlife. Visitors must obtain a permit to enter the park, which can be obtained at the park entrance gate or online. Visitors are also required to present a valid passport or ID card. Guided tours are available in the park and are recommended for those who want to learn more about the park’s history, ecology, and wildlife.
However, there are no lodges or campsites inside the park, but there are several accommodation options available in nearby towns, such as Mbeya and Njombe.
The park’s climate is cool and temperate, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. The rainy season is from November to May, while the dry season is from June to October.
Also, visitors are expected to respect the park’s natural environment and to avoid littering or damaging the park’s flora and fauna.
Overall, Kitulo National Park is a beautiful and unique Tanzania safaris destination that offers visitors a chance to experience Tanzania’s natural beauty and biodiversity. By following the park’s rules and guidelines, visitors can help preserve this special place for future generations to enjoy.
