Tona lodge - Chome Forest Reserve

Tona lodge is a guesthouse near Chome Forest Reserve.

Location
Chome Forest Reserve, Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-4.174897, 37.919340
Elevation
1,366m
Activities
guesthouse

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

316 species observed within 20 km, 32 mammals, 171 birds.

  • Maasai Giraffe (Mammalia, 11 observations)
  • Von der Decken's Hornbill (Aves, 9 observations)
  • D'Arnaud's Barbet (Aves, 8 observations)
  • South Pare White-eye (Aves, 8 observations)
  • Lesser Kudu (Mammalia, 7 observations)
  • Common Eland (Mammalia, 7 observations)
  • Red-and-yellow Barbet (Aves, 7 observations)
  • Black-bellied Sunbird (Aves, 7 observations)
  • White-bellied Go-away-bird (Aves, 7 observations)
  • White-browed Sparrow-Weaver (Aves, 6 observations)

Best Time to Visit Tona lodge

The best months to visit Tona lodge are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 15.73°C, rainfall 143.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • February: Good, temperature 16.18°C, rainfall 139.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 80.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 16.09°C, rainfall 146.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • April: Poor, temperature 15.09°C, rainfall 205.8mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 88.4%
  • May: Good, temperature 14.08°C, rainfall 73.8mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • June: Good, temperature 12.89°C, rainfall 28.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 12.24°C, rainfall 23.7mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 12.74°C, rainfall 39.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 76.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 13.55°C, rainfall 53.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 77.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 14.76°C, rainfall 79.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 77.4%
  • November: Good, temperature 15.05°C, rainfall 179mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 84.9%
  • December: Poor, temperature 15.09°C, rainfall 155.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 86.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Tona Lodge and explore Chome Forest Reserve?

The ideal time to visit Tona Lodge and Chome Forest Reserve is during the dry season, from June to October and December to February. During these months, hiking trails are more accessible, and the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. The wet season brings lush greenery and excellent birdwatching, but trails can be muddy.

What unique activities and wildlife viewing opportunities are available when staying at Tona Lodge near Chome Forest Reserve?

Staying at Tona Lodge offers direct access to guided forest hikes within Chome Forest Reserve, where you can discover unique flora and endemic bird species like the Chameleons. You might also spot various monkey species, small antelopes, and enjoy cultural interactions with the local communities surrounding the reserve. It's a focus on forest ecology rather than traditional 'Big Five' safaris.

How accessible is Tona Lodge, and what are the recommended transportation options for reaching it from major Tanzanian hubs?

Tona Lodge is situated near the Chome Forest Reserve in the Pare Mountains, making it a more remote destination. Most travelers arrange private transfers from larger towns like Same or Moshi, which can be reached by bus from Arusha or Dar es Salaam. It's advisable to coordinate transport with the lodge in advance due to its secluded location.

What kind of accommodation and pricing can I expect at Tona Lodge, given its guesthouse nature?

As a guesthouse, Tona Lodge offers comfortable, clean, and more budget-friendly accommodation compared to luxury safari lodges. You can expect a welcoming, local atmosphere with essential amenities, often including home-cooked meals. Pricing is typically per person per night and is best confirmed directly with the lodge for current rates and availability.

What should I know about safety and local interactions when staying at Tona Lodge and exploring the Chome Forest Reserve area?

The area around Tona Lodge and Chome Forest Reserve is generally safe, but it's always recommended to use local guides for forest excursions to ensure safety and enhance your experience. The local communities are known for their hospitality, and engaging respectfully with them can offer rich cultural insights. Always be mindful of your belongings and follow your guide's advice.

Other Safari Lodges in Chome Forest Reserve

Parks in Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Tanzania

Travel advisory for Tanzania