Amazing this to do at Magamba Nature Forest Reserve: Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is situated in the eastern part of Tanzania within the Lushoto and Korogwe Districts of the Tanga Region. The reserve area is part of the West Usambara Mountain Ranges. Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is uniquely identified by a German cave and the oldest skyline in East Africa as well as a fascinating stone with a human being’s step, known as “Jiwe la Mungu”. This stone as well as Kiguluhakwea and Kwehondo stones, provide spectacular viewpoints. Other attractions are an old German cave, the oldest Skyline in East Africa; waterfalls at Mkusu and Sungwi; Grewal Pond; moths and butterflies of unique attractive colors; and an astonishing landscape. Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is perfect for; hiking, historical site visiting, camping, forest walks, photographing, research and educational tours, bird watching, and cold swimming in the waterfall plunge pool as explained below.
Hiking safaris
Hiking in Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is a popular activity done on the reserve. The reserve is home to a variety of hiking trails where visitors while on Tanzania hiking trails can embark on such as;
Grewal Trail: this 7 km route takes approximately 5 hours to hike and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, though it can also be accessed by car. it is a well-traveled path, frequently used by forest rangers for monitoring and protection. During the hike, you will be surrounded by vibrant butterflies, wildflowers, and refreshing water streams, all complemented by towering trees and a variety of reptiles such as chameleons. This trail is also renowned for its rich birdlife, making it a fantastic spot for bird-watching. While on the trail, you will find a lovely spot for picnicking and camping. The nearby Grewal Dam offers stunning scenery and opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Skyline and Jiwe la Mungu trail: Embark on a memorable full-day adventure (approximately ten hours) on the Skyline and Jiwe la Mungu trail, perfect for walking, hiking, driving, motorbiking, and cycling. The diverse routes allow visitors to begin their hike at the Magamba Nature Forest Reserve office, covering 34km to reach Shume Skyline, followed by an additional 13.6 km to Jiwe la Mungu.
Ideal for adventure, nature enthusiasts, motorbike riders, and cyclists, the trail meanders through the stunning Magamba Nature Forest Reserve. Hikers are treated to breathtaking views at Shume Skyline, as well as captivating geological formations at Jiwe la Mungu. Cultural experiences await at jiwe la Mungu.
Along the way, birdwatchers will delight in observing diverse bird species in the Grewal area, as well as spotting fascinating wildlife such as two-horn chameleons, vervet monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys. The trails are famous with vibrant butterflies, insects, beautiful endemic trees, wildflowers, shrubs, water streams, and tranquil water streams.
For an added historical touch, visitors can explore the remnants of an old sawmill and buildings in the Grewal area as well as old German buildings and ruins at Shume Nywelo village. This trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Juma Kahama (K.J. trail): This scenic 6.67 km trail begins at Magamba Secondary School and leads to Ndabwa Village, with an option to continue to Kinko Village or ascend Kwehondo Peak. The hike typically takes around 4 hours and 30 minutes, offering a stunning journey through lush farmlands and into the enchanting rainforest. It is particularly recommended for trekking to Mtae village.
While the trail features some steep sections, the experience is rewarding and enjoyable. Hikers can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, including vibrant black and white colobus monkeys, birds, reptiles, and unique insects such as the rare jeweled spider. Along the way, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of kwehondo peak, which stands at with l 2170 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the Magamba Nature Forest Reserve.
Kigulu Hakwewa Trail and Peak: This stunning trail can be accessed from various points within the forest such as the SEKOMU trail, Mshai Trail, kwembago trail, and Kwesimu. The hiking distance differs depending on which sub-trails you choose, but all offer a remarkable experience, making it perfect for a day hike or picnic. The trail culminates at the breathtaking Kigulu Hakwewa peak, which stands at 1840 meters above sea level. From the peak, visitors are treated to panoramic views of Lushoto town, the sisal estates in Mombo town, the Mafi hills in Korogwe, the Maasai plains in Mombo town, and the lush tree canopy in Magamba Nature Forest Reserve. Visitors can relax in the cool weather while enjoying the tranquillity, the sounds of birds, and their packed meals.
Bird Watching
Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is home to a wide range of endemic, rare, and endangered bird species. Birdwatching in the reserve is mostly conducted in Grewal kwehondo and Sekomu trails. During your bird-watching tour, you will have the chance to spot birds such as swifts, Usambara nightjar, Usambara eagle owl, White tailed ant-thrush, African thrush, Usambara thrush, cinnamon-chested bee-eater, Shelley’s greenbul, black-headed mountain greenbul, evergreen-forest warbler and Compact weaver among others.
Cycling and motorbiking
Magamba Nature Forest Reserve provides an exceptional and breathtaking backdrop for cycling and motorbiking. Riders can embark on one scenic route starting from the Magamba Nature Forest Reserve head office, and traveling the tranquil forest to Shume and Mtae. This pathway is peaceful, with minimal vehicle and foot traffic, allowing for an enjoyable ride.
Cyclists and motorcyclists coming from Mtae can use this route through Shume Manolo, Viti, Gologolo, and Nywelo and through Magamba Nature Forest to Magamba Village and then Lushoto town. In Lushoto, professional cycling guides from local tourist organizations are available to accompany you on your journey, ensuring a memorable experience
Horse riding
At present, there are no horse riding services in the Usambara Mountains particularly in the Magamba Nature Forest Reserve. however, Magamba Nature Forest Reserve is a perfect destination for horseback riding. Exploring the stunning forest landscapes on horseback is a truly magical experience. The trails and drive routes are favourable for horse riding. Riders can enjoy bird watching, observe various plant and animal life, and listen to the soothing sounds of water streams, all while witnessing the lively movements of primates and birds along the way.
Getting to Magamba Nature Forest Reserve
To reach Magamba Nature Forest Reserve, you have two options: you can drive there yourself using a private car or take a public coach that travels between Dar es Salaam and Lushoto, which is approximately 339.3 kilometers away. If you’re coming from Arusha City, which is about 310.8 kilometers distant, you will need to travel to Lushoto first and then continue to the Magamba head office, located around 9 kilometers from there.
Where to say
Visiting Magamba Nature Forest Reserve shouldn’t worry you. The reserve has a lot of camping sites available for visitors. Additionally, other accommodations such as hotels, lodges, and rest houses can be found in Lushoto town, which is approximately 9 kilometers away.
