Uwanja Wa Mbogo (buffalos Glade) in Arusha, Tanzania
A large natural glade consisting of marsh, bushes and streams that is located approximately 500 metres west of Momela gate – Arusha national park. It serves as a feeding ground for buffalos, giraffes and warthogs as well as a destination for walking safaris.
The walking safaris that go through this field include the treks up mount Meru and hikes to nearby Tululusia waterfalls.
One of the amazing things about the glades is how the buffalos and warthogs coexist, each depending on the other to ensure survival.
The Warthogs use the buffalo biomass to ward off some of its natural enemies, in return they use their good eyesight to warn the buffalos of an impending enemy threat by running while holding their tails up in the air – a phenomenon that can be observed as one walks towards the glade.
Security is not the only reason that buffalos and warthogs coexist on this field, as the buffalos tend to feed on long grass – making it shorter and more accessible to warthogs who are adapted to feeding while resting on their knees. There is yet to be a scientific reason behind this posture [1].
What to do there?
Hike to the place and take a picture with the animals in the background OR take a picture of the animals themselves – nothing says you’ve been to the wild more than this. Just don’t get too close as they are wild animals after all and always listen to what the TANAPA ranger says.
There also are several plant species in the same field that you could find including flowers such as jasmine, the fig tree and the famous acacia that giraffes love to feed on.
Best time to visit?
Any time of the year, with more emphasis towards the drier season of July to February. Although the trek can still be made in the rainy season, other areas of the park may be less accessible, with the possibility of unexpected showers hindering your hike.
Location of Uwanja Wa Mbogo (buffalos Glade)
The buffalos glade is located a short distance west of the Momela gate on the north eastern part of Arusha national park. It is also on the foothills of mount Meru and is one of the first attractions that hikers to its summit get to see provided they began hiking at the gate.
How to get there?
The field is less than 500 metres from Momela gate, with the only means of getting there being a walking safari with an armed TANAPA ranger accompanying you. Regardless of your point of entry, you normally would be required to get to Momela gate, where they would check your permits and give you any further instructions along with a ranger who would also be your guide.