Kitulo National Park

Explore Kitulo National Park – The Garden of God

Located in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania, Kitulo National Park is often referred to as “Bustani ya Mungu” by the local people, which translates to “The Garden of God.” This stunning park is renowned for its breathtaking floral diversity, with over 350 vascular plant species, including 45 species of terrestrial orchids that bloom into a spectacular wildflower display during the rainy season, from November to April.

Kitulo is not just a paradise for plant lovers but also a sanctuary for unique wildlife. While large game is rare, you may spot animals such as mountain reedbuck, eland, and a variety of frogs, lizards, and chameleons. The park is also home to an impressive variety of plants, including the vibrant yellow-orange red-hot poker, giant lobelias, and proteas, with over 30 species endemic to Southern Tanzania.

Things to Do in Kitulo National Park

• Floral Exploration: The park is a haven for flower enthusiasts. It’s home to some of the rarest and most beautiful wildflowers, with orchids taking center stage. Witnessing this natural bloom is an experience like no other.
• Wildlife Watching: Although Kitulo is not known for large mammals, it offers a chance to see a range of unique species like the mountain reedbuck and chameleons, making it an exciting destination for wildlife lovers.
• Photography: Kitulo’s diverse plant life and rugged landscapes make it a perfect destination for nature photography. Capture the vivid colors of blooming flowers, the tranquil surroundings, and the striking scenery of the plateau.

Where to Stay in Kitulo National Park

Accommodation in Kitulo National Park caters to a variety of budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxury lodge, a mid-range guesthouse, or a budget-friendly option, you’ll find something that fits your needs. Some recommended places to stay include:

• Royal Tughimbe Hotel
• Karibuni Center
• Mbeya Guest House
• Malasi Rest House
• Matema Lake Shore Resort
• Utengule Coffee Lodge
• Ifisi Community Centre

Contact us for more details on booking and reservations.

How to Get to Kitulo National Park

Kitulo National Park is located around 78 kilometers east of Mbeya, with access via a 4WD vehicle. The most common route is from Chimala, where you can drive on a paved road that leads to Dar es Salaam. The park’s remote location adds to its charm, offering a more secluded and peaceful safari experience.

Best Time to Visit Kitulo National Park

The best time to visit Kitulo National Park is during the dry season, from December to February and June to October. These months offer the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the park and its wildlife. The rainy season (March to May and November) brings lush vegetation but can make certain roads challenging to navigate.

Tanzania Visa and Work Permit Information

To visit Tanzania, you’ll need to purchase a tourist visa. While many travelers opt to get their visa before arriving, you can also obtain it on arrival at any entry point in Tanzania for a fee of USD 100. Be sure to carry proof of yellow fever vaccination and, if required, a COVID-19-free certificate.

Entry and exit requirements, including visas and work permits, can change. For the latest information, contact your local Tanzanian embassy or refer to the official government websites.

Tanzania Vehicle Hire Services

Trek Africa Expeditions offers transportation options suited to your budget and the nature of your journey. For the most comfortable and reliable travel in Kitulo National Park, we recommend customized 4×4 Land Cruisers. Costs range from USD 200-250 per day, depending on your choice of vehicle and the number of people in your group. We also offer 4×4 Safari Vans for USD 200 per day.

We’ll work with you to estimate fuel costs based on your itinerary and the distance you’ll be traveling.

Why Book Your Kitulo National Park Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in creating memorable, eco-friendly safari experiences in Tanzania. We are known for our expertise in organizing unforgettable adventures, and we are highly rated on TripAdvisor. We focus on preserving biodiversity, conserving wildlife, and uplifting local communities through sustainable tourism.

Whether you’re interested in a Big 5 safari, gorilla trekking, mountain hiking, or a cultural encounter, we provide a variety of unique safari options in Tanzania and other top African destinations such as Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Feel free to contact us for more information or to book your safari to Kitulo National Park—an unforgettable adventure awaits!