Kitulo National Park is a highland plateau and mountain forest conservation area located in southern Tanzania, covering an area of 412.9 square kilometers. Part of the park is in the Mbeya region, while the other part is in the Iringa region. The protected area mainly includes the Kitulo plateau and the nearby Livingston Forest.

The locals refer to the Kitulo plateau as Bustani ya Mungu, which means the Garden of God. Botanists call it the “Serengeti of Flowers,” and it is considered one of the world’s great botanical spectacles. As one of the vital watersheds of the Great Ruaha River, Kitulo is renowned for its rich vegetation, including not only orchids but also striking yellow and orange gladioli, a variety of geraniums, African violets, heathers, and daisies, with over 30 species being endemic to southern Tanzania. While large animals are rare, the open grasslands are home to some small antelopes and elands.

Kitulo National Park is not just a paradise for botanists and hikers but also attracts numerous birdwatchers. The park is home to Tanzania’s only population of the rare Denham’s Bustard, as well as breeding grounds for the critically endangered Blue Swallows and the localized mountain marsh widow, the Endangered Kilombero Weavers, and the globally threatened Kipengere Seed-eater. Additionally, the presence of local butterflies, chameleons, lizards, and frogs adds to the park’s biodiversity, making the “Garden of God” even more fascinating.

Kitulo National Park

Reasons to visit: Tanzania’s most stunning botanical landscape garden

Continent where the attraction is located: Africa

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Tanzania

Provinces or regions where the attraction is located: Mbeya and Iringa Regions