The Ultimate Guide to Chome Reserve Safaris
Nestled within the South Pare Mountains of northern Tanzania, Chome Nature Reserve is a gem of montane forest biodiversity. Often cloaked in mist and rich with rare plant and animal life, the reserve serves as a critical ecological stronghold in the Eastern Arc Mountains—a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. Known locally as “Kibosho ya Chome”, the forest harbors endemic species and is a vital water catchment area for surrounding communities.
Historical Background and Establishment.
Colonial Era (early to mid-20th century): Chome was originally declared a Forest Reserve under colonial administration to safeguard timber resources and regulate forest use. However, enforcement was minimal, and community dependence on forest products persisted without sustainable management frameworks.
Post-Independence Shifts (1970s–1990s): As environmental awareness grew, Tanzanian authorities began recognizing the ecological value of Eastern Arc forests beyond timber—particularly their role in preserving water sources and endemic biodiversity. Researchers and conservationists began advocating for stronger protection status.
Redesignation as a Nature Reserve (2000s).
· In response to mounting deforestation and biodiversity threats, the Tanzanian government, through the Forest and Beekeeping Division and supported by partners like WWF and Eastern Arc Mountains Conservation Endowment Fund (EAMCEF), upgraded Chome's status from a Forest Reserve to a Nature Reserve.
· This legal change brought stricter conservation measures under the Forest Act of 2002, emphasizing biodiversity preservation, scientific research, and controlled ecotourism.
· Management was shifted toward ecosystem integrity, with limited resource extraction and greater investment in patrolling, ecological monitoring, and forest restoration.
Community Engagement and Conservation.
Despite its strict protection status, Chome Nature Reserve has not been isolated from community interests:
· Local communities were engaged through sensitization campaigns and the formation of Village Environmental Committees, helping foster stewardship and reduce illegal activities.
· Benefit-sharing efforts—such as support for alternative livelihoods, bee-keeping, and eco-education—have slowly been integrated to balance conservation goals with socio-economic needs.
LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY.
· Location of Chome Nature Reserve.
1. Chome Nature Forest Reserve is nestled in the South Pare Mountains of Same District, within Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Region. It stretches across 14,283 hectares, with its crown jewel being Shengena Peak, soaring to 2,462 meters above sea level — the second-highest peak in the region after Mount Kilimanjaro.
Geographically, it’s positioned between the West Usambara and North Pare Mountains, forming part of the Eastern Arc Mountain range, a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. The reserve is surrounded by 27 villages, making it not only ecologically rich but also deeply embedded in local community life.
Accessibility.
· Chome is accessible by road, and while it’s remote enough to feel like a true escape into nature, it’s not out of reach:
- From Kilimanjaro: About 117 km via Same town, which serves as the main gateway.
- From Dar es Salaam: Roughly 444 km, also through Same town.
- From Arusha: Travelers can connect via the Arusha–Dar es Salaam highway, passing through Makanya, south of Same, before heading up into the reserve.
Once in Same, it’s approximately a 2-hour drive to reach the reserve itself. The roads are passable, though the final stretch may require a sturdy vehicle, especially during the rainy season.
Visitor Facilities.
- Camping: Two designated campsites — one inside the reserve and one at the entrance.
- Nearby Lodging: Options include Kisaka Village Inn, Tona Lodge, and Tona Annex in Manka. Guesthouses in surrounding villages also offer simple, community-based stays.
- Visitor Center: Located just outside Same town, offering orientation and local guidance.
ACCOMODATION.
Inside the Reserve: Camping Facilities
· Chome offers two official campsites:
- One at the entrance of the reserve
- One deeper inside, ideal for those seeking immersion in nature
Each site includes.
- Basic toilets and bucket showers
- No cooking facilities — campers must be fully self-sufficient
- Stunning forest surroundings, perfect for birdwatching, hiking, and stargazing
This setup suits adventurous travelers or researchers who want to stay close to the forest’s heartbeat.
Lodges and Guesthouses.
For those preferring more comfort or community interaction, several options lie just outside the reserve:
- Kisaka Village Inn (Chome village, ~1.5 km from the reserve): A simple, locally run guesthouse offering warm hospitality and a chance to engage with village life.
- Tona Lodge and Tona Annex (Manka village): Known for their proximity to the reserve and friendly service. Ideal for small groups or educational teams.
- Elephant Motel (Same town): A more established option with better amenities, often used by travelers heading to Mkomazi National Park. Offers safari arrangements and local guidance.
- Nzoroko Hotel (Same town): Another modest but reliable choice for overnight stays before heading into the reserve.
Visitor Information Center.
Located just outside Same town, this center provides.
- Maps and route advice
- Entry and camping fee payments
- Local contacts for guides and cultural experiences
Community-Based Stays.
Several surrounding villages offer informal guesthouses or homestays. These provide:
- A deeper connection to Pare culture
- Opportunities to participate in traditional music, dancing, and local brew tasting
- A more sustainable tourism model, where benefits flow directly to local families
TRANSPORTATION.
Chome Nature Reserve in a way that’s both practical and grounded in local realities
Road Access: The Main Gateway.
Chome Nature Reserve is accessible exclusively by road, with Same town in Kilimanjaro Region serving as the key entry point. From Same, visitors travel southward into the South Pare Mountains, with the reserve nestled around Shengena Peak.
- From Kilimanjaro (Moshi): Approx. 117 km via the Moshi–Same highway
- From Dar es Salaam: About 444 km, typically a full-day drive
- From Arusha: Connect via the Arusha–Dar highway, passing through Makanya, then onward to Same
Once in Same, the journey to the reserve takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on weather and road conditions.
Road Conditions and Vehicle Type.
- Roads are passable year-round, but the final stretch into the reserve is unpaved and rugged
- 4WD vehicles are strongly recommended, especially during the rainy seasons (March–May and November–December)
- Mobile network coverage is available along most of the route, though it may be limited inside the reserve, especially on the western slopes.
Navigation and Support.
- A Tourist Information Centre is located 8 km south of Same town, near Mkonga Forest Reserve
- Offers maps, route advice, and entry fee payment
- Staff can guide visitors on the shortest and safest routes into the reserve.
Public Transport Options.
- Buses and daladalas run regularly to Same town from major cities like Moshi, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam
- From Same, visitors can hire local taxis or private vehicles to reach the reserve
- Some lodges (like Elephant Motel) may assist with transport arrangements
Scenic Routes and Viewpoints.
The drive into Chome offers breathtaking views of:
- Sisal plantations along the highway
- Mkomazi National Park, Taita Hills, and even Tsavo National Park in Kenya from higher elevations
UNIQUE FEATURES.
Chome Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of rare biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural richness. Let’s to explore its unique features in a way that brings its story to life.
Dramatic Landscapes and Altitude.
- Anchored by Shengena Peak (2,462 m), the second-highest in Kilimanjaro Region, Chome offers sweeping views of Mkomazi National Park, Taita Hills, and even Tsavo in Kenya.
- The reserve spans 14,283 hectares of rugged terrain, with misty montane forests, rocky ridges, and crystal-clear streams — a haven for hikers and nature lovers.
Rare and Endemic Wildlife.
Chome is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. It harbors species found nowhere else on Earth:
- South Pare White-eye: A tiny, vibrant bird found only in this region.
- Callulina shengena & Callulina stanleyi: Two endangered frog species exclusive to Chome.
- Kilimanjaro blade-horned chameleon (Kinyongia tavetanum) and Rhampholeon viridis: Rare reptiles adapted to the forest’s microclimates.
- Angolan pied colobus, blue monkeys, Zanzibar lesser galago, and the elusive Rufous elephant shrew roam the canopy and forest floor.
Exceptional Flora.
- Over 554 plant species thrive here, including Ocotea usambarensis, a towering camphor tree reaching up to 45 meters.
- Elfin forests, heathlands, and moss-draped montane forests dominate the upper ridges, creating a surreal, almost mythical atmosphere.
Birding Paradise.
- More than 95 bird species recorded, including:
- Red-capped tailorbird
- Mountain buzzard
- White-tailed crested flycatcher
- African yellow-warbler
- The reserve is classified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) — a dream for ornithologists and photographers alike.
Cultural and Scenic Viewpoints.
- King’s Stone: A site of historical and spiritual significance to local Pare communities.
- Village visits offer immersive experiences in traditional music, local brew tasting, and daily life in the 27 villages surrounding the reserve.
Ecotourism Activities.
- Hiking trails to Shengena Peak, Butterfly Trail, and Bat Caves
- Forest walks, birdwatching, and photography
- Swimming in natural pools
- Camping and picnicking under ancient trees
TOURISM ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCE.
Forest Walks and Hiking Adventures.
Chome is a hiker’s paradise, with trails winding through misty montane forests, rocky ridges, and butterfly-filled clearings. Visitors can choose from:
- Shengena Peak Trail (6 hrs): A challenging ascent to the second-highest peak in Kilimanjaro Region, offering panoramic views of Mkomazi, Taita Hills, and Tsavo.
- Turaco Trail (2.5 hrs): Ideal for birders, passing through lush habitats of the red-capped tailorbird and mountain buzzard.
- Butterfly Trail (1.5 hrs): A gentle walk through high montane forest rich in epiphytes and wildflowers.
- Thomson Waterfalls Trail (2 hrs): Leads to a serene cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and forest canopy.
- Bat Caves Trail (6 hrs): A mysterious route into ancient caves, home to bat colonies and folklore.
- Bwambo Drive (4 hrs): A scenic 4WD route with viewpoints for birds, monkeys, and butterflies.
Birdwatching and Wildlife Encounters.
Recognized as an Important Bird Area, Chome hosts over 95 bird species, including:
- South Pare white-eye (endemic)
- White-tailed crested flycatcher
- Red-capped robin-chat
- Trumpeter hornbill
- African yellow-warbler
Wildlife sightings include.
- Angolan pied colobus
- Blue monkeys
- Zanzibar lesser galago
- Rufous elephant shrew
- Rare chameleons and frogs found nowhere else on Earth.
Nature-Based Experiences.
- Swimming in natural forest pools — a refreshing escape on warm days
- Picnicking under towering camphor trees
- Photography of dramatic landscapes, flora, and wildlife
- Butterfly trailing — especially vibrant during the rainy season.
Cultural and Community Tourism.
Chome is surrounded by 27 villages, making it a hub for cultural exchange.
- Village visits offer insights into Pare traditions, farming practices, and daily life
- Participate in traditional music and dancing
- Taste local brew and learn about indigenous forest uses
- Visit King’s Stone, a sacred site tied to local history and storytelling
These experiences foster community benefit-sharing, with tourism revenues supporting local livelihoods and conservation efforts.
Educational and Research Opportunities.
- Ideal for student groups, researchers, and eco-volunteers
- Rich in endemic species, forest ecology, and climate studies
- Guided tours available through the Tourist Information Centre near Same town
BENEFITS OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES.
Ecosystem Services That Sustain Daily Life.
· Chome’s montane forests play a vital role in water regulation, soil conservation, and climate moderation, directly benefiting nearby villages:
- Clean water supply: Springs and streams originating in the reserve provide drinking water and irrigation for farming.
- Flood and erosion control: Forest cover stabilizes slopes and reduces runoff, protecting homes and crops.
- Air purification and cooling: The dense canopy helps regulate local temperatures and improves air quality.
These services are especially critical for villages like Marieni, Kambeni, Mvaa, and Ntenga, which rely heavily on natural resources for survival.
Sustainable Livelihoods and Income Generation.
Thanks to conservation partnerships and community initiatives, locals have developed eco-friendly income streams:
- Beekeeping and honey production: A popular activity in buffer zones, with training and equipment provided by NGOs.
- Butterfly farming and ginger cultivation: Introduced as part of EU-supported programs, now generating income in over 23 villages.
- Tree nurseries and agroforestry: Villagers grow indigenous seedlings for sale and reforestation, blending conservation with commerce.
These ventures reduce pressure on the forest while creating economic resilience.
Community-Led Forest Protection.
Empowered by training and support from groups like EAMCEF, villagers have become active stewards of the forest:
- Environmental committees patrol weekly, report illegal activities, and educate others.
- Uniforms and equipment have boosted visibility and respect, especially for women leaders like Halima Mbiki.
- Over 4,000 community members have been employed in trail maintenance, fire line construction, and forest boundary protection.
This grassroots model has led to a 90% reduction in illegal activities and stronger community pride in conservation.
Education and Capacity Building.
- Environmental education in schools and villages has raised awareness of forest benefits and threats.
- Training in Participatory Forest Management (PFM) and REDD+ has helped communities understand carbon credit opportunities and sustainable governance.
- Water User Associations and land-use planning initiatives have improved access to clean water and sanitation, especially in upstream villages.
These efforts build long-term capacity and foster local ownership of conservation goals.
Governance and Social Empowerment.
- Village by-laws have been created and enforced to regulate forest use and prevent encroachment.
- Legal empowerment: Communities now report forest crimes through formal channels, increasing accountability.
- Gender inclusion: Women have gained visibility and leadership roles in forest management, challenging traditional norms.
Together, these changes have strengthened trust, equity, and collaboration between communities and forest authorities.
CHALLENGES,SOLUTIONS AND OPPORTUNITIES.
Chome Nature Reserve’s challenges, the solutions being implemented, and the opportunities that lie ahead, especially through the lens of community empowerment and sustainable tourism.
Challenges Faced.
Chome’s ecological richness is under pressure from a mix of environmental, social, and governance issues:
- Illegal logging and timber harvesting: Despite its protected status, demand for high-value timber like Ocotea usambarensis has led to unauthorized extraction.
- Forest fires: Often caused by nearby agricultural activities or charcoal production, fires threaten biodiversity and water catchments.
- Mining and pit-sawing: Unregulated gold mining and pit-sawing have been reported, especially on the eastern slopes.
- Limited staffing and enforcement: With only 11 staff managing over 14,000 hectares, enforcement is stretched thin.
- Community dissatisfaction: Some locals feel excluded from forest benefits, leading to illegal resource use and weak support for conservation.
- Low awareness of REDD+ and carbon credit opportunities: Most villagers are unaware of how forest conservation could generate income through climate finance.
Solutions in Action
Several initiatives have been launched to address these challenges, blending conservation with community development:
- Participatory Forest Management (PFM): Villagers now help patrol, report illegal activities, and enforce by-laws — boosting ownership and reducing forest crimes.
- Environmental education: Schools and community groups are being trained in forest stewardship, water conservation, and climate resilience.
- Alternative livelihoods:
- Beekeeping, ginger farming, and butterfly rearing offer income without harming the forest.
- Avocado cultivation and pig keeping are being scaled up to reduce reliance on forest products.
- Improved governance: REDD+ awareness campaigns and leadership training are helping communities understand carbon credit potential and demand transparency.
- Tourism development: Hiking trails, cultural experiences, and village homestays are being promoted to generate revenue and showcase local heritage.
Opportunities Ahead.
Chome’s future holds promise — if conservation and community goals continue to align.
- Ecotourism expansion: With its rare species, dramatic landscapes, and cultural richness, Chome is ripe for low-impact tourism. Opportunities include:
- Guided hikes to Shengena Peak
- Birdwatching tours featuring the South Pare white-eye
- Cultural visits to King’s Stone and Pare villages
- Climate finance and REDD+: With proper governance, Chome could benefit from carbon credits — rewarding communities for protecting forest carbon stocks.
- Youth and women empowerment: Conservation jobs, leadership roles, and training programs are opening doors for marginalized groups.
- Policy advocacy and scaling best practices: Lessons from Chome’s joint management model are being documented and shared across Tanzania.
- Research and education: The reserve’s biodiversity makes it ideal for ecological studies, student fieldwork, and conservation training.
CONCLUSION.
Chome Nature Reserve, nestled in the South Pare Mountains of Kilimanjaro Region, is a remarkable example of how ecological richness and human stewardship can coexist. Spanning over 14,283 hectares, it shelters rare and endemic species — from the South Pare white-eye to the endangered Callulina frogs and blade-horned chameleons — making it one of Tanzania’s most biologically significant forests.
· Its dramatic landscapes, including Shengena Peak, misty montane forests, and crystal-clear streams, offer not only breathtaking scenery but also vital ecosystem services like clean water, erosion control, and climate regulation.
From Threatened Forest to Protected Haven.
· Historically, Chome faced serious threats: illegal logging, forest fires, and unsustainable resource use. But its upgrade to a Nature Forest Reserve in 2016 marked a turning point. Through Participatory Forest Management, community patrols, and alternative livelihoods like beekeeping and butterfly farming, thousands of locals have become active protectors of the forest.
· Women and youth now lead conservation efforts, village by-laws have strengthened governance, and environmental education has reshaped attitudes across 27 surrounding villages.