Tanzania is home to some of the most well-known and challenging mountain ranges on the African continent. From Mount Kilimanjaro’s towering peaks to the rugged landscapes of the Crater Highlands, there are countless opportunities for climbers who are looking for adventure.
Mount Kilimanjaro
No list of Tanzanian mountain climbs would be complete without mentioning Mount Kilimanjaro. It’s Africa’s tallest peak and one of the most famous mountains anywhere in the world. Standing at a whopping 5,895 meters tall (19,341 feet), Kilimanjaro attracts thousands of thrill seekers each year.
There are numerous routes up Kilimanjaro, each offering a different mix of difficulty level and natural beauty. The Marangu Route — sometimes called “Coca-Cola Route” — is by far the most popular choice among climbers. On it hikers can expect about five days worth of trekking with comfortable hut accommodations along the way.
Other frequently trodden paths include: Machame Route, Lemosho Route, Rongai Route. Each has its own perks and challenges.
Scaling Kilimanjaro takes both physical strength and mental determination. Altitude sickness often sets in before climbers get nearthe summit due to high altitude and extreme weather conditions.. But once you conquer that peak you’re left with one of the most rewarding views on Earth.
The climb provides lots of opportunities to experience an assortment of ecosystems. There are lush rainforests, dry alpine deserts and glacial ice fields. During these treks, you’ll come across rare plants and animals, such as the giant groundsel and the elusive Abbott’s duiker. You’ll also meet some welcoming Tanzanian natives.
Best Time to Go: The best time to scale Kilimanjaro is during one of its two dry seasons: December to February or June to October. However, you can technically climb it at any time, and March-May and November are great times for less crowded trails and cheaper prices.
Where To Stay: Most Kilimanjaro climbs start in the town of Moshi. It’s home to numerous hotels and lodges for all budgets. A few good options include Kaliwa Lodge, Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel, Honey Badger Lodge.
Insider Tip: Be sure to give yourself enough time on lower inclines before pushing for the top. Altitude sickness can turn a fun climb into a life-or-death situation if hikers don’t take necessary precautions first. A trustworthy guide will ensure that your trip is as safe as possible while porters carry supplies so that you’re not overexerting yourself;
Mount Meru
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a picturesque volcano waiting to be discovered in its own right. At 4,566 meters (14,980 feet) tall, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second highest mountain and Africa’s fifth tallest.
The climb to the top of Mount Meru takes four days with only one main route. Climbers will have to mix hiking and scrambling over rocky terrain. Although challenging on the body, the beautiful view of surrounding landscapes will make it all worth it – including a clear sight of Kilimanjaro and Arusha National Park.
One perk about climbing this specific mountain is that you’ll get a chance to spot various wildlife on your way up. Elephants, buffalos, giraffes and colobus monkeys are just a few examples that you’ll come across. The mountain also hosts over 400 species of birds which makes it a prime place for birdwatchers.
If wildlife doesn’t do it for you then maybe meeting new people will. The local Meru people have been living at the foot of the mountain for centuries and offer warm hospitality and cultural traditions as well as traditional tribesmen villages to visit. You’ll get plenty chances to learn about their way of life while sampling delicious local cuisine.
When should you go? December-February or June-October are typically the most ideal times due to dry weather conditions but March-May and November can offer less crowded trails if you’re looking for more affordable prices.
Where should I stay? There are several hotels nearby where most climbers decide to lay their heads during their journey up Mount Meru:
The Mount Meru Hotel
The Arusha Hotel
The Meru House Inn
Insider tip: Give yourself an extra two days in Arusha prior to beginning your climb so that your body can acclimate better to the high altitude – which can cause altitude sickness. Also, it’s a good idea to hire a guide and porters to ensure safety and comfort – at least if you care more about ascending than carrying your own gear
Ol Doinyo Lengai
If you’re looking for the climb of your life, Ol Doinyo Lengai is it. Located in the Gregory Rift Valley, this active volcano in East Africa is like no other. “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, Ol Doinyo Lengai is the one and only active volcano that erupts carbonatite lava. This rare substance contains high levels of alkaline that doesn’t exist anywhere else on earth.
Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai isn’t for everyone—it’s difficult and extremely dangerous. The slopes are loose and steep, temperatures frequently spike, and volcanic activity can interrupt the entire journey at any given moment. On average, climbers take six to eight hours to reach the summit; most start before sunrise to avoid sweltering heat.
Don’t let its challenges deter you—an adventure up Ol Doinyo Lengai comes with unparalleled rewards. At the top, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of both Lake Natron and Kilimanjaro—two landmarks that draw thousands of travelers every year. But perhaps one of the strangest sights will be peering into an active crater where carbonatite lava flows and bubbles away: It’s a sight unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
Mount Meru
Too often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru is a beautiful peak that stands well on its own right. It’s also among Tanzania’s highest mountains at 4,566 meters (14,980 feet).
There is only one main route to get to the top of Mount Meru which takes four days to complete but it features a mix of hiking challenging scrambling over rocky terrain. The trip will test your physical limits as steep ascents and descents dot the mountainous landscape. However once you make it through to see this view it will all be worth it.
One of the main attractions of climbing Mount Meru is taking a break from the hiking to see all the wildlife that call this area home. On any given day climbers have a chance to see elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and colobus monkeys. More than 400 species of birds also live within the mountainous region which makes for an optimal bird watching experience if you’re into that kind of thing.
While visiting Mount Meru you’ll also get a taste of the local culture from the Meru people who’ve lived on the slopes for hundreds of years. They’re known for their warm hospitality so take advantage and ask them as many questions as you can before they start asking questions about your own life!
When should I go: Of course summer and winter are optimal climbing seasons but waiting to tackle this summit in spring or fall could work out too. The trails will be less crowded because most people save these trips for summer and winter—this could lead to cheaper prices on various things around town.
Where should I stay: In Arusha there are several hotels where climbers can comfortably begin their journey—it’s only about a 20-minute drive from Mount Meru itself. Some top accommodations nearby include Mount Meru Hotel, Arusha Hotel, and Meru House Inn.
Insider Tip: You’ll need some time adjusting to Tanzania’s high altitude so don’t skimp on spending extra nights in Arusha. It’s also highly recommended that you hire a guide and porters who know how to navigate around dangerous areas—this will help ensure your utmost safety during your trip.
One of the best things about climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai is being able to experience the unique culture and customs of the Maasai people. The Maasai have been living in the region for a long time and they believe that the mountain holds a lot of value from a spiritual perspective. You will be able to go on trips to traditional Maasai villages and discover their way of life, as well as witness their vibrant ceremonies and rituals.
When should you go? The perfect time to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai is during the dry seasons, which are December-February and June-October. However, it’s still possible to tackle this mountain no matter what time of year it is. March-May and November can also be good shoulder season times to visit because there tends to be less foot traffic on those trails which means lower prices.
Where should you stay? There are quite a few basic campsites and lodges in the nearby town of Mto wa Mbu, where most climbers start their journey up Ol Doinyo Lengai, so finding accommodation won’t be an issue. Some top places include Twiga Campsite, Lake Natron Tented Camp, and Ol Doinyo Lengai Lodge.
Usambara Mountains
The Usambara Mountains are these awesome ancient crystalline mountains in Tanzania’s northeastern part. They’re a tough climb, but a unique one. In total, the range is split into two sections: West and East. Each has its own cool stuff to see.
West Usambaras are the more accessible of the two areas with several hiking trails and accommodation options. Magamba Nature Trail is the most popular of them all. It’ll take you past waterfalls and viewpoints while you walk through lush rainforests. Along the way, there’s a good chance you’ll spot some birds that make this area their home.
On the East side, things get a little wilder. The untouched landscape offers climbers and trekkers an authentic adventure experience. Mtai Trail is the crowd favorite here. You’ll get to see dense forests, crazy viewpoints looking over valleys and other mountains too! On top of all that, rare eagle owls and chameleons call this place home.
One thing that makes climbing these mountains special is getting to live in Shambaa culture for a few days or weeks. The Shambaa people have lived here for ages and know everything about it like no one else does — as it’s their own backyard! From traditional villages to delicacies they’ve whipped up themselves; there’s so much tradition tied into this place.
Best time to go: June-October & January-February
Where to stay: Mambo View Point Eco Lodge
Mullers Mountain Lodge
Irente Cliff Lodge
Mahale Mountains
Nestled in the hidden western part of Tanzania, the Mahale Mountains are a stunning range of wild hills and lush forests that provide one-of-a-kind climbing experiences. The mountains share land with the Mahale Mountains National Park, which has world-famous breathtaking views, tons of wildlife, and is home to the biggest population of wild chimps on the continent.
Climbing through the Mahale Mountains gives you an adventure that’s both challenging and rewarding. Your journey will take you through thick forests, up steep ridges, and along scenic vantage points overlooking Lake Tanganyika and the nearby wilderness. Out of all the ranges in Mahale, Nkungwe Trail is by far the most popular with climbers because it takes you to Mount Nkungwe — which sits at 2,462 meters (8,077 feet), making it both highest peak in this range.
As you get your sweat on while climbing these mountains, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of wildlife like chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, and tons of endemic bird species. You’ll also have a chance to learn about efforts being made to conserve this area as well as experience Tongwe culture when locals welcome you with open arms.
One thing that makes climbing around here special is how easy it is to combine your trek with chimpanzee tracking. This gives you a chance to observe these fascinating primates up close in their natural habitat without disturbing them. The park’s got several chimp groups accustomed to human presence and expert guides who can help you track them down safely.
When to go: The best time to climb in these parts would be during dry season from May till October. But if that time doesn’t work for you, don’t worry because mountains can be climbed year-round. Trails are less crowded during November-December or March-April so prices might drop some then too.
Where to stay: There aren’t many places you can shack up around here. So your decision will be pretty easy. Some of the top picks for climbers include Greystoke Mahale lodge, Kungwe Beach Lodge, and Nkungwe Tented Camp.
Udzungwa Mountains
Situated in the south of Tanzania, Udzungwa Mountains is a beautiful cluster of ancient rainforests and rocky peaks that provide a one-of-a-kind, challenging climbing experience. The range hosts Udzungwa Mountains National Park, which boasts fantastic biodiversity for its size with over 400 types of birds, 2500 species of plants and multiple primates unique to the park.
Climbing through the Udzungwa Mountains proves to be an authentic wilderness experience that will take you through dense forests, steep ridges and past stunning vistas that overlook the valleys and mountains surrounding it. You will have the opportunity to climb to the base of Sanje Waterfalls through three cascades that plummet over 170 meters (550 feet) into a deep gorge on the popular trail known as Sanje Waterfalls Trail.
Along this journey you will be able to spot many different animals such as: The endemic Udzungwa red colobus monkey, the Sanje crested mangabey and several beautiful birds and butterflies. In addition, you’ll have chances to learn about its unique ecology and conservation efforts along with experiencing the warm hospitality from local villages.
Another highlight of climbing in this area is that it is so close Mikumi National Park which houses elephants, lions and giraffes plus many more classic African wildlife creatures. You can also pop over to neighbouring villages for some cultural education while tasting their delicious food or shopping for crafts they’ve hand produced.
When should I go? There are two dry seasons throughout a year’s cycle here – June-October then January-February. But anytime outside these periods still maintains great conditions so don’t worry if your schedule doesn’t allow for these times!
Where should I stay? Rest easy knowing there are multiple lodges and campsites situated around Udzungwa Mountains allowing you plenty of options when choosing where you want to rest up after your daily treks. Some top choices would be Hondo Hondo Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp, Udzungwa Forest Mountain Lodge and Twiga Campsite.
Uluguru Mountains
Tanzania’s eastern region is home to the Uluguru mountain range. The ancient crystal peaks and dense rainforests offer a unique experience for climbers looking for something off the beaten track. This region boasts several endemic species both flora and fauna, as well as being home to the Luguru people who have lived here for generations and hold a deep spiritual connection to these hills.
Climbing in the Uluguru Mountains is hard but rewarding work. Trekking through thick forests, up steep ridges, and you’ll pass by some stunning viewpoints that overlook valleys and plains that are worth every bead of sweat that drips down your forehead. The most popular trail is the Bondwa Peak Trail which will take you to the summit of Bondwa Peak at 2,630 meters (8,630 feet).
Along the way you may stumble across a variety of endangered species such as the Uluguru bush shrike or maybe even lay your eyes on an Uluguru violet-backed sunbird. You’ll also come across more common wild life like an Uluguru two-horned chameleon. Whatever you see be sure to ask your guide about local ecology and conservation efforts where they live, they can provide with answers you may never find if touring alone. Once at camp you’ll also get a chance to share experiences over food with fellow trekkers while enjoying warm hospitality from locals.
Another major highlight of climbing in this area is getting to venture into nearby villages where you can learn all about their traditional farming practices, how they make handicrafts, as well as their spiritual beliefs. Some places may even let you sample traditional dishes such as Ugali which is made from corn flour soaked in water then heated until it forms a solid lump.Pair it was stew or vegetables for some added flavor.
When’s the best time? You might ask yourself when would be best time visit this natural paradise on earth. The dry seasons run from June to October and January to February, however take note that times outside of those months will be less crowded and mission more affordable.
Where should I stay? There are several basic guesthouses and campsites in the villages around the Uluguru Mountains that offer a simple local experience. Some of the top picks include Tchenzema Guesthouse, Matombo Guesthouse, or Morogoro Guesthouse.
