Private Full Day Pugu Hills Bird watching & Hiking

Dar es Salaam , Tanzania

Private Full Day Pugu Hills Bird watching & Hiking

Active

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Pugu Hills Nature Reserve, formerly known as Mogo Forest, offers an ideal city escape from Dar es Salaam, away from the typical tourist routes. This area is believed to be one of the oldest forests on the planet, providing a glimpse into ancient natural history. The evergreen forest is home to over 80 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Visitors to Pugu Hills Nature Reserve can explore several hiking trails, each offering its own unique scenery and wildlife encounters. One popular trail leads to a scenic viewpoint where you can marvel at panoramic views of the city, lush forests, and a serene lake below. For those seeking adventure, a visit to the cave, renowned for its bat colony, offers an intriguing experience.
Whether you're a nature lover, a hiking enthusiast, or a photography buff, Pugu Hills Nature Reserve promises a memorable and enriching experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Available options

Private Full Day Pugu Hills Bird watching & Hiking

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Early in the morning, our driver will pick you up from your lodging in Dar Es Salaam and take you to the beautiful Pugu Hills Nature Reserve. It’s a 25 kilometres drive from the centre of Dar Es Salaam. Once you arrive you’ll check in and start your hike and use the rest of your day to explore the coastal woodland and benefit from the insider knowledge of a local guide to help you spot endemic species, discover man-made structures, and navigate nature trails with ease all the way to Msolo peak. Afterwards, you’ll have a Swahili lunch and proceed on to canoeing then afterwards you’ll be transferred back to your lodgings

What's not included

Tips & Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dar es Salaam

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and its commercial hub, offering a vibrant mix of cultural heritage, bustling markets, and beautiful coastal scenery. As the gateway to Zanzibar and the southern circuits of Tanzania, it combines modern urban life with Swahili coastal charm.

Top Attractions

Coco Beach

A popular beach in Dar es Salaam with a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying local seafood.

Beach Half day Free (Food and activities extra)

Mbudya Island

A small island located just off the coast of Dar es Salaam, offering pristine beaches, snorkeling, and a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature Full day Moderate (Boat ride and activities)

Dar es Salaam National Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Tanzania, including exhibits on natural history, ethnography, and the country's struggle for independence.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (Entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ugali and Nyama Choma

Ugali is a staple food made from maize flour, often served with grilled meat (Nyama Choma).

Main Course Vegetarian options available (Ugali with vegetables)

Pilau

A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Mishkaki

Grilled skewers of marinated meat, often served with kachumbari (a fresh tomato and onion salsa).

Snack Contains meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling and diving Island hopping Beach relaxation Spa treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals and events Boat tours and fishing excursions Spice tours in Zanzibar

Best Time to Visit

June to October

This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

22-30°C 72-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Swahili, English
Widely spoken: Swahili, English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Dar es Salaam is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Julius Nyerere International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Dar es Salaam Central Station

By bus

Ubungo Bus Terminal, Tegeta Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Dala Dala are minibuses that are the most common and affordable way to get around the city. They can be crowded and chaotic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kariakoo Oyster Bay

Day trips

Zanzibar Island

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day or overnight

Zanzibar offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, and a unique blend of African, Arab, and Indian cultures.

Bagamoyo

60 km from Dar es Salaam • Full day

A historic town with a rich cultural heritage, known for its role in the slave trade and as a center for Swahili culture.

Festivals

Dar es Salaam International Film Festival (DIFIFF) • July Sauti za Busara • February

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation.
Visit the Kariakoo Market early in the morning for the best selection and to avoid crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Book ferry tickets to Zanzibar in advance, especially during peak season.