Herpetology Expedition February 2027

Discover the extraordinary biodiversity of Tanzania's Eastern Arc Mountains on this 11-day expedition through the Uluguru and East Usambara Mountains. Search for endemic chameleons, geckos, snakes, and amphibians, explore ancient tropical forests, and experience the wildlife-rich landscapes of Mkomazi National Park beneath the shadow of Kilimanjaro.

• Overview

  Explore two of Tanzania's most remarkable biodiversity hotspots on this 11-day expedition through the Eastern Arc Mountains and northern Tanzania.

  The journey begins in the Kimboza Forest Reserve at the foothills of the Uluguru Mountains, home to the spectacular Electric Blue Day Gecko (Lygodactylus williamsi) and an extraordinary diversity of endemic reptiles, amphibians, plants, and invertebrates. Despite its relatively small size, Kimboza is one of East Africa's most important lowland forest remnants and offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

  From Kimboza, the expedition continues north to Mkomazi National Park. This vast and little-visited wilderness provides a striking contrast to the mountain forests and offers opportunities to observe large mammals, birds, reptiles, and some of Tanzania's most spectacular landscapes beneath the shadow of Kilimanjaro. Comfortable accommodation and excellent wildlife viewing make Mkomazi one of Tanzania's most rewarding yet overlooked protected areas.

  The final stage of the expedition is spent in the Amani Nature Reserve in the East Usambara Mountains, one of Africa's most important centres of biodiversity. Renowned for its exceptional levels of endemism, Amani is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, including Usambara chameleons, endemic forest birds, colourful amphibians, rare invertebrates, and a rich diversity of tropical plants. Guided day and night excursions through the forest provide outstanding opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and natural history.

  Throughout the expedition, participants will gain insight into the ecology, evolution, and conservation of Tanzania's remarkable wildlife while exploring landscapes rarely visited by international travellers.

  
  Optional Extensions

  Guests wishing to extend their stay may choose from several coastal add-ons.

  The Tanga Coast Extension offers opportunities to explore mangrove forests, kayak along sheltered waterways, snorkel coral reefs, and relax on Tanzania's quiet northern coastline.

  Alternatively, the Mafia Island Extension provides access to some of the Indian Ocean's finest diving and snorkelling, together with opportunities to explore mangrove ecosystems, coastal forests, and the island's rich marine biodiversity.

  Both extensions provide the perfect complement to an active field expedition and can be customised to suit individual interests and travel schedules.

• Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam (1 night)

  • Days 2–3: Uluguru Mountains – Kimboza Forest (2 nights)

  • Days 4–6: Mkomazi National Park (3 nights)

  • Days 7–10: Amani Forest, East Usambara Mountains (4 nights)

  • Day 11: Return to Dar es Salaam and international departure

  Duration: 11 days / 10 nights

  
  Optional Add-Ons

  Tanga Coast

  • Day 11 – Travel to Fish Eagle Point, Tanga

  • Days 12–13* – Explore the Tanga Coast (Mangroves, Kayaking, Snorkelling and Diving)

  • Day 14 – Return to Dar es Salaam and international departure

  Mafia Island

  • Day 11 – Travel to Mafia Island via Dar es Salaam

  • Days 12–15* – Diving, Snorkelling and Exploration of Mafia Island's Mangrove Forests and Marine Ecosystems

  • Day 16 – Return to Dar es Salaam and international departure

  *Length of stay can be customised to individual preferences.

• Species Highlights

  1. Lygodactylus williamsi
     (Electric Blue Day Gecko)

  2. Rhampholeon uluguruensis
     (Uluguru Pygmy Chameleon)

  3. Nectophrynoides cryptus
     (Uluguru Forest Tree Toad)

  4. Ancylodactylus barbouri
     (Uluguru Round-eyed Gecko)

  5. Prosymna ornatissima
     (Ornate Shovel-snout Snake)

  6. Trioceros deremensis
     (Usambara Giant Three-horned Chameleon)

  7. Rhampholeon spinosus
     (Usambara Spiny Pygmy Chameleon)

  8. Atheris ceratophora
     (Usambara Bush Viper / Horned Bush Viper)

  9. Probreviceps macrodactylus
     (Large-fingered Forest Frog)

  10. Nectophrynoides tornieri
      (Usambara Viviparous Toad)