TheUsambara Mountainsof northeasternTanzaniain tropicalEast Africa, comprise the easternmostrangesof theEastern Arc Mountains. The ranges of approximately 90 kilometres (56mi) long and about half that wide, are situated in theLushoto Districtof theTanga Region.
They were formed nearly two million years ago by faulting and uplifting, and are composed ofPrecambrianmetamorphicrocks. They are split into two sub-ranges; the West Usambaras being higher than the East Usambaras, which are nearer the coast and receive more rainfall.
The mountains are clad in virgin tropical rainforest which has been isolated for a long period and they are a centre ofendemism.
Historically they were inhabited byBantu,Shambaa, andMaasai peoplebut in the eighteenth century, a Shambaa kingdom was founded byMbegha. The kingdom eventually fell apart after a succession struggle in 1862. German colonists settled in the area which was to becomeGerman East Africa, and afterWorld War Iit became part of the British mandated territory ofTanganyika.
Geography
The Usambaras are approximately 90 kilometres (56mi) long and ranging from 30–50 kilometres (19–31mi) in width. They form part of theEastern Arc Mountains, which stretch fromKenyathrough Tanzania. The range is one of the world'sBiodiversity hotspots. The highest point beingChambolopeak at 2,289 meters above sea level.[1]
The range is accessible from the towns ofLushotoin the west, andAmaniin the east. The Usambaras are commonly split into two sub-ranges, the West Usambara Mountains and the East Usambara Mountains. The East Usambara are closer to the coast, receive more rainfall, and are significantly smaller than the West Usambara.
Geology
The mountain range was formed nearly two million years ago. Due to a lack of glaciations and a relatively consistent climate, the rainforest has gone through a long term and unique evolution resulting in an impressive amount of endemism and an old-growth cloud rainforests.[2]
The West and East Usambaras are large ranges ofPrecambrianmetamorphicgeologic formations of acid-gneisses,pyroxenes, andamphiboles. These mountains were formed by faulting and uplifting creating the drainage system of troughs that form many watersheds, which provide water to a majority of the population of northeast Tanzania.[3]
Welcome to Usambara Hikers, where we share our passion for exploring the breathtaking beauty of the East Usambara mountains.
With a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, we offer a range of guided hiking adventures that immerse you in the rich cultural heritage and diverse flora and fauna of this magical region.
Join us as we trek through lush rainforests, picturesque villages, and panoramic viewpoints, creating unforgettable memories along the way. Start your adventure with Usambara Hikers and discover the hidden gems of the East Usambara mountains.
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