Mountains Climbing in Tanzania

Tanzania is a premier destination for mountain climbing, offering some of the most iconic and challenging peaks in Africa. The country is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak on the continent, as well as other stunning mountains like Mount Meru and the Usambara and Udzungwa ranges. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a beginner, Tanzania has something to offer. Here’s a guide to mountain climbing in Tanzania:

Mount Kilimanjaro

Facts

• Height: 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) – the highest peak in Africa.
• Location: Northern Tanzania, near the town of Moshi.
• Best Time to Climb: June to October (dry season) and January to February.
• Climbing Routes:

• Marangu Route: Known as the “Coca-Cola Route,” it is the easiest and most popular, with hut accommodations.

• Machame Route: The “Whiskey Route,” more challenging but scenic, with camping.

• Lemosho Route: Less crowded, offering stunning views and a high success rate.

• Rongai Route: The only northern approach, less crowded and good for rainy seasons.

• Umbwe Route: The most challenging and steepest route, for experienced climbers.

• Highlights:

• Passing through five ecological zones: rainforest, heath, moorland, alpine desert, and arctic summit.
• Reaching Uhuru Peak for a breathtaking sunrise over Africa.

• Duration: 5-9 days, depending on the route and acclimatization.

Mount Meru

Facts

• Height: 4,562 meters (14,968 feet) – Tanzania’s second-highest peak.
• Location: Arusha National Park, near Arusha city.
• Best Time to Climb: June to February (dry season).
• Route:

• The Momella Route is the only path to the summit, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife sightings.

Highlights:

• Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days.

• Wildlife encounters, including giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys.

• A quieter and less crowded alternative to Kilimanjaro.

• Duration: 3-4 days.

Ol Doinyo Lengai

Facts

• Height: 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) – known as the “Mountain of God” by the Maasai.
• Location: Near Lake Natron in northern Tanzania.
• Best Time to Climb: June to October (dry season).
• Route:

• The climb is steep and challenging, often requiring scrambling over loose volcanic rock.

• Highlights:

• An active volcano with unique carbonatite lava.
• Spectacular views of the Rift Valley and Lake Natron.
• A less-traveled and adventurous climb.

• Duration: 1-2 days.

Usambara Mountains

Facts

• Height: Up to 2,290 meters (7,513 feet).
• Location: Northeastern Tanzania, near Lushoto.
• Best Time to Visit: June to October and December to February.
• Activities:

• Hiking through lush forests, tea plantations, and traditional villages.
• Exploring the Irente Viewpoint and Mkuzu Waterfall.
• Cultural interactions with the local Shambaa people.

• Highlights:

• Scenic landscapes and cool, refreshing weather.
• A less strenuous option for trekkers and nature lovers.

• Duration: Day hikes or multi-day treks.

Udzungwa Mountains

Facts

• Height: Up to 2,576 meters (8,451 feet).

• Location: Southern Tanzania, part of the Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

• Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season).

• Activities:

• Hiking to Sanje Waterfalls, a stunning three-tiered waterfall.
• Exploring rainforests rich in biodiversity, including rare primates and birds.
• Trekking to the Mwanihana Peak, the highest point in the range.

• Highlights:

• A biodiversity hotspot with endemic species.

• Less crowded and off-the-beaten-path.

• Duration: Day hikes or multi-day treks.