Nilo Nature Forest Reserve
Nilo Nature Forest Reserve is the second largest block of forest in the East Usambara, after Amani. It lies in the northwest part of these mountains and sits on a Y-shaped ridge system, with an eastern arm that extends near Semdoe Forest Reserve and a western arm that looks across the Lwengera Valley to the West Usambara. A central ridge runs along its southern leg towards Derema Forest Reserve that abuts Amani Nature Forest Reserve.
Nilo Nature Forest Reserve was established in 2007 to conserve the area’s unique ecosystem and protect its exceptional biodiversity for future generations. The reserve covers an area of approximately 62 square kilometers of the East Usambara Mountains.
The reserve is a haven for almost 800 species of plants, including eight African violet species, and 100 species of birds, such as the rare Banded green sunbird and the Red-capped Forest warbler. On your lucky visit, you might also have the chance to encounter an Angolan pied colobus, an Usambara three-horned chameleon, or a Zanj elephant shrew. Amazingly, the reserve is surrounded by 17 villages.
Traditionally, the forests have been an important source of firewood and food for local people. The reserve continues to play a critical role in rain catchment and reducing the effects of climate change.
Climate
Nilo lies within the altitudinal range of 400 to 1,506 meters with two main peaks: Nilo ranges about 1,506 meters in the northwest and Lutindi ranges about 1,400 meters in the south-west. The area receives rainfall in all months of the year, with peaks in March-May and September-December. Mean annual rainfall increases from 1,200 mm in the foothills to over 2,200 mm at higher altitudes. West-facing slopes are drier than those facing east. Temperature ranges from 17.6 degrees Celsius at higher altitudes to 23.1 degrees Celsius in the foothills.
Attractions found at Nilo Nature Forest Reserve
Wildlife
The reserve is a haven for almost 800 species of plants, including eight African violet species, and 100 species of birds, such as the rare Banded green sunbird, long-billed tailorbird, Fisher’s turaco, urban center pecker, southern banded snake-eagle, red-caped forest warbler, pale-breasted illadopsis, red-tailed ant-thrush, Uluguru violet backed sunbird, Amani sunbird, spot-throat, Usambara thrush and the Red-capped Forest warbler. On your lucky visit, you might also have the chance to encounter with Angolan pied colobus, an Usambara three-horned chameleon.
Vegetation
The main vegetation types are dense montane forest above 1,250 meters, sub-montane forest at 850 – 1,250 meters, and lowland forest below 85 meters. The sub-montane forest can be exceptionally tall and luxuriant, with the largest trees reaching 58 meters in height in favorable sites. Some of the dominant tree species include Allanblackia stuhlmannii, Leptonychia usambarensis, Myrianthus holstii, Sorindeia madagascariensis, Strombosia scheffleri and Synsepalum msolo.
Tourist activities to do at Nilo Nature Forest Reserve
Birding
The reserve has the highest biodiversity value compared to other forest reserves in East Usambara. Bird watching in Nilo Nature Forest Reserve presents you with a lifetime opportunity to look out at a variety of colorful bird species. During your birding tours, you will be able to see birds such as Banded green sunbird, long-billed tailorbird, Fisher’s turaco, urban center pecker and southern banded snake-eagle among others.
Hiking safaris
Hiking is another best-done activity in Nilo Nature Forest Reserve. One of the most hiking trails is the hike to Nilo Peak which is the highest peak. Visitors can also hike to the summit of the Lutindi Peak and Kwemakulo trail which directly leads into the Kwemakulo Peak. Hiking these fascinating peaks not only offers physical fitness but also offers remarkable views of the reserve’s wildlife as well as the surrounding environment.
Cycling tours
Cycling tours in Nilo Nature Forest Reserve provide an exhilarating way to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Riders can traverse scenic trails that wind through lush forests, vibrant flora, and tranquil surroundings. This eco-friendly activity offers adventure and a unique opportunity to connect with nature while enjoying the outdoors.
Camping tours
Camping at Nilo Nature Forest Reserve is one of the best ways to experience the reserve’s beauty in a dark zone. Visitors while on their camping safaris can set up their tents in the reserve’s designated campsites either in the Chura campsite or Denmark campsite which are located in headquarters and the other located inside the reserve.
How to access Nilo Nature Forest Reserve
The reserve is reached by road either from Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Kilimanjaro, or Arusha via Muheza or Korogwe townships. If you are coming from Korogwe town, it is a drive of 78 km via the Magoma – Kwetonge junction. From Muheza town, it is a drive of 66 km passing through Amani Nature Forest Reserve and Bulwa junction. Within the reserve, there are 22km of nature trails that connect areas, including routes leading to Lutindi and Nilo Peaks. Additionally, a scenic 12.5km drive traverses the reserve and Kizerui Village.
Where to stay
Accommodation options are available in Korogwe town and visitors can take advantage of camping within the reserve
