Southern Circuit

Overview

Kitulo National Park is located in Tanzania's Southern Highlands near the border with Malawi, is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, especially its rich array of orchids and other flowering plants, earning it the nickname "Serengeti of Flowers." Covering 400 square kilometers, it is home to over 350 plant species, including 45 types of orchids, many of which are endemic. The park also supports a variety of wildlife, including endangered African wild dogs, antelope, and numerous bird species. Its high-altitude grasslands, wetlands, and montane forests provide a unique and ecologically significant habitat.

Designated a national park in 2005 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kitulo is crucial for the conservation of the Eastern Arc Mountains' biodiversity. While still relatively undeveloped for tourism, it offers a haven for ecotourism, particularly for botanical enthusiasts and birdwatchers. However, the park faces challenges like poaching and agricultural encroachment, requiring ongoing conservation efforts.