Interest
Mountains
Tanzania is a paradise for hikers, offering a diverse range of mountains suitable for all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner looking for a scenic trek or an experienced mountaineer seeking a tough challenge, there’s a perfect hike for you. The country’s varied landscape provides a unique experience in every region, from lush forests and waterfalls to rocky summits and glaciers. Hiking in Tanzania is not only about reaching the peak but also about immersing yourself in breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and fascinating local cultures. Here’s a guide to some of the best mountains to hike in Tanzania, categorized by difficulty level.
Difficulty Levels
Easy: Suitable for beginners, these trails have well-marked paths, gradual inclines, and shorter trekking times.
Medium: Ideal for those with some hiking experience, these hikes may include steep climbs, longer trekking durations, and varying terrain.
Difficult: Designed for experienced hikers, these trails involve high altitudes, rugged terrain, and long durations, often requiring technical skills.
Mountains Tanzania
Usambara mountains ( Lushoto hiking trails)​​
Location: Tanga - Difficulty level: Easy
The Usambara Mountains, particularly the Lushoto hiking trails, offer a relaxed trekking experience. At an elevation of 1,900 meters, these hikes can last from one to three days, leading to breathtaking viewpoints, waterfalls, and cultural interactions with local communities. The trails are moderate in altitude, and the hike's length and intensity can be easily adjusted to suit different fitness levels.
Mount Meru ( Partial hike to Mariakamba hut)
Location: Arusha Np - Difficulty level: Easy
​Mount Meru, when hiked partially up to Mariakamba Hut, is a great option for beginners. At an elevation of 2,500 meters, this hike takes about one to two days and offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, diverse wildlife, and a scenic crater. The trail to Mariakamba Hut is gentle, with well-maintained paths through lush forests, making it an enjoyable experience.
Mount Hanang
Location: Manyara region - Difficulty level: Medium
Standing at 3,417 meters, Mount Hanang is a fantastic choice for those looking for a moderate challenge. This hike takes one to two days and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and diverse bird species. While the climb is steep at certain points, it remains manageable for those with some hiking experience.​
Mount Kilimanjaro​
Location: Kilimanjaro national park - Difficulty level: Difficult
As the highest peak in Africa at 5,895 meters, Mount Kilimanjaro is the ultimate challenge for experienced hikers. The trek takes between five and nine days and involves varying terrains, unpredictable weather, and long trekking days. However, the reward is unparalleled, with incredible landscapes, glaciers, and unique vegetation at the summit.
Udzungwa Mountains ( Sanjee waterfall parks)
Location: Udzungwa nationalpark - Difficulty level: Medium
​The Udzungwa Mountains, particularly the Sanje Waterfalls hike, offer an exciting trekking experience. Reaching an elevation of 1,600 meters, this one-day hike features spectacular waterfalls, rich biodiversity, and the opportunity to see endemic monkeys. Some sections are steep and rocky, requiring a reasonable level of fitness but providing an incredibly rewarding experience.​
Ol Doinyo Lengai
Location: Arusha region - Difficulty level: Hard
Standing at 3,417 meters, Mount Hanang is a fantastic choice for those looking for a moderate challenge. This hike takes one to two days and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and diverse bird species. While the climb is steep at certain points, it remains manageable for those with some hiking experience.​
Pare Mountains
Location: Kilimanjaro region - Difficulty level: Easy
​Known as the "Mountain of God" by the Maasai people, Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano standing at 2,962 meters. This trek is one of the most challenging in Tanzania due to its steep and exposed slopes, making the ascent extremely demanding. The hike typically begins at night to reach the summit by sunrise, where hikers are rewarded with views of molten lava and the surrounding Great Rift Valley.
Mahale Mountains
Location: Mahale mountains Np - Difficulty level: Medium
The Mahale Mountains, located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, provide a thrilling hiking experience. These mountains are home to wild chimpanzees, and trekking through the dense forests offers incredible opportunities for wildlife encounters. The trails involve some steep sections, but the stunning lake views and unique wildlife make it a rewarding journey.​
Mount Meru
Location: Arusha National Park - Difficulty level: Hard
​Reaching the summit of Mount Meru at 4,566 meters is another demanding challenge. This three- to four-day trek offers breathtaking sunrise views from Socialist Peak, rich wildlife encounters, and dramatic landscapes. However, the steep inclines, high altitude, and long trekking hours require endurance and preparation.