Magoroto Experience Trips

The 591 hectares sized Magoroto Forest Estate with its scenic freshwater lake has been opened in 1896 by German Settlers as one of the very first commercial plantations in Eastern Africa. Originally the Estate began as a rubber plantation and, after subsequent failed attempts to grow coffee and tea, converted into a Palmoil Estate in 1921. Seized from the German owners as “enemy property” after World War 1 the Estate has been taken over by the Amboni Group in the 1940s.

The palm oil production had to be ceased in the 90s due to stifling competition from Malaysia and Indonesia. Since then Magoroto has been maintained and protected with great enthusiasm and engagement for little else than its unique natural beauty and uniqueness. Along with the neighboring Mlinga Forests Magoroto forms part of the East Usambara Mountains, which are world-renown for their high species endemism and rich floral and faunal diversity. They are recognized as part of a Biodiversity Hotspot (WWF & IUCN), an “Important Bird Area” (Wildlife Conservation Society of Tanzania – WCST) and a “Man and Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO).

African Violets (Saintpaulia) have been promoted as flagship plants for the conservation of these forests. As a genuine “hilltop” station Magoroto is an uniquely interesting nearby trekking destination for tourists from the Tanga / Muheza area. Its 850 mts altitude does provide for comfortable climatic and stunning views on the low lands below. Its a perfect camping spot in the Usambara mountains.

The estate offers stunning views from the Muheza Valley to the Indian ocean. Enjoy the lush rain forest with rare plants and bird species or walk through the old plam oil plantation. Learn about organic spice production such as cardamom, pepper, cloves, vanilla,cinamon, tea and many other useful plants. Have a picnic or swim in our beautiful lake.