Tanzania is a land of wildlife sanctuaries, rainforests and the best trekking and hiking trails of Africa. Tanzania offers short hikes and long treks through volcanoes, craters and high plateaus based on one’s capability. In short, there is something for everyone who dreams of trekking in Tanzania. Here is a list of those trekking trails one can go through before getting on an adventurous holiday.

Best Time For Trekking In Tanzania

Best Time For Trekking In Tanzania

Image Source

One can visit Tanzania for a safari or trekking all throughout the year except during the rainy season. January-February gives a clear and glistening view of the mountain peaks. With little pockets of rain that is carried forward from the November rainy season makes this period a little off season to trek the mountains. The most popular time for trekking in Tanzania is between July and October.

10 Best Trails For Trekking In Tanzania

The climb to these spots offers a perfect opportunity to see the wildlife such as giraffes, colobus monkeys, baboons, elephants and antelopes. Here’s a list of the 10 best trails for trekking in Tanzania:

1. Mt. Kilimanjaro – Rongai Route

Mt. Kilimanjaro - Rongai Route

Image Source

It is the world’s tallest freestanding volcanic mountain and the highest mountain of the African continent. One of the seven summits of the world, Kilimanjaro stands at 5895 meters above sea level. It has seven official trails that leads to Uhuru peak at the Kibo Crater. It is located in the Kilimanjaro National Park and the trekking trails provide different views every day as one goes higher.

Duration: 6-8 days
Difficulty level: Easy
Cost: INR 1,89,000
Highlights: Easiest trail to the Uhuru Peak.
Tip: The slower one climbs, the better the body acclimatizes.

Must Read: Tanzania Travel Guide: Gear Up For An Exciting Holiday Amidst The Wilderness!


Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.


2. Mt.Kilimanjaro – Marangu Route

Mt.Kilimanjaro- Marangu Route

Image Source

Marangu route is the most popular trekking route to climb up to the Uhuru peak and is commonly called as the tourist route. It starts from the South-east side of the mountain and is the only mountain that offers dormitory style sleeping huts for the climbers. Trekkers come across steep slopes and lovely rainforest areas on their way up.

Duration: 6 days
Difficulty level: Easy
Cost: INR 1,60,000
Highlights: The only route that offers dormitory style sleeping huts.
Tip: Wear a sturdy, waterproof shoes and a windcheater jacket.

3. Mt.Kilimanjaro – Machame Route

Roof Africa Machame Barranco Wall Kilimanjaro

Image Source

Machame route starts from the South-west side of the Mountain and is considered to be one of the best trekking routes in Tanzania. It is one of the most scenic routes making it a popular choice among the travellers. The descent is through Mweka path. Trekkers will reach the peak via Shira Plateau and Lava Tower. The climb has some some steep slopes, so physical fitness is expected from the climbers.

Duration: 7 days
Difficulty level: Moderate
Cost: INR 2,10,000
Highlights: The most beautiful trekking trail.
Tip: Expect some headaches due to the altitude difference.

Suggested Read: 10 Tanzania Travel Tips Every Traveler Must Keep In Mind Before Flying Out!

4. Mt.Kilimanjaro – Lemosho Route

Mt.Kilimanjaro- Lemosho Route

Image Source

Lemosho is the most difficult route to undertake the climb to the Uhuru Peak making it the least used trail. The route is very scenic and has the best view of sunrise from the summit. It is the longer trail that passes through Shira Plateau and merges with Machame route. It is the perfect route for experienced climbers and is one of the best hikes in Tanzania.

Duration: 8 days
Difficulty level: Difficult
Cost: INR 2,50,000
Highlights: The most scenic route and the best trekking trail in Tanzania.
Tip: Avoid UV rays as much as possible as it can cause dehydration.

5. Mt. Meru

Mount Meru

Image Source

The second highest peak in Tanzania stands at 4566 meters high and is the second most popular choice for mountain trekking in Tanzania. It is located 80 kms to the west of Mount Kilimanjaro in the Arusha National Park. The trek up the mountain is short compared to Kilimanjaro but a steep one. The climb to the Mount Meru offers a perfect opportunity to see the wildlife such as giraffes, colobus monkeys, baboons, elephants and antelopes.

Duration: 4 days
Difficulty level: Difficult
Cost: INR 96,000
Highlights: More affordable, less crowded and an ideal rehearsal before climbing Kilimanjaro.
Tip: Full fledged meals while climbing is not suggested, carry a few treats instead.

Suggested Read: 10 Classy Wedding Venues In Tanzania That Are Perfect For Your Big Day!


Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.


6. Ngorongoro Conservation Park – Olmoti Crater

Ngorongoro Conservation Park- Olmoti Crater

Image Source

Though most of the trekking in Tanzania are up the mountains, Ngorongoro Crater Highlands are more of a shallow wide open bases up the volcano. This conservation area has the highest density of wildlife in Africa. One often crosses paths with gazelles, gnus, black rhinos, tusker elephants, lions, leopards and buffaloes here. Olmoti Crater hike is a short trek to its rim that takes about 40 minutes to ascend. The hike starts from the Nainokanoka village at the shoulder of the ancient caldera. It is a pleasant climb past the Munge waterfalls to the crater and the view from there is extraordinary.

Duration: 1 day
Difficulty level: Easy
Cost: INR 1,46,000
Highlights: The view of the source of the river Munga.
Tip: Mental preparation for a hike is important.

7. Ngorongoro Conservation Park – Empakai Crater

Ngorongoro Conservation Park- Empakai Crater

Image Source

Situated deeper in the conservation area, Empakai hike offers the view of zebras, antelopes and flamingos along the way. It is a long but a fun hike to the Embulbul depression where the most beautiful lake can be found. It is about an hour hike up to the 2743 meters high Crater’s rim and takes about half an hour to descend the steep slopes.

Duration: 1 day
Difficulty level: Easy
Cost: INR 1,46,000
Highlights: View of the flamingos flocking around the Crater’s Soda Lake.
Tip: Use a ski-pole.

Suggested Read: Safari In Tanzania: For An Exquisite Encounter With The Wild Side of Africa!

8. Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ngorongoro Conservation Area- Ol Doinyo Lengai

Image Source

It is an active volcano and is often referred to as the ‘Mountain of God’ by the locals. The trail up the volcano is quite steep with sand and loose rocks. The trek offers a stunning view of the Lake Natron, plains of Serengeti and the Acacia forests. Make sure to wear proper trekking shoes and carry a trekking pole, although the latter is not mandatory.

Duration: 1 day
Difficulty level: Difficult
Cost: INR 1,46,000
Highlights: Visit to the Lake Natron
Tip: Follow the walk high-sleep low concept.

9. Udzungwa Mountains

Udzungwa Mountains

Image Source

Udzungwa Mountains National Park houses many endemic species of wildlife such as Kipunji Ape, Iringa red colobus monkey and Udzungwa Partridge. The 38 kms hike up to the Mwanihana Peak takes one through lush forest and a large bamboo landscape leading to Sanje waterfalls. Trekkers have an opportunity to take a dip at this waterfall before continuing the ascent.

Duration: 3 days
Difficulty level: Moderate
Cost: INR 52,000
Highlights: The chances of crossing paths with endemic species.
Tip: Start the trek from Hondo Hondo

Suggested Read: Tanzania Nightlife: 10 Best Bars & Clubs To Stop By For An Unforgettable Evening

10. Pugu Hills

Pugu Hills

Image Source

The Pugu Hills Forest Reserve is located 20 kms Southwest of Dar es Salaam. The river Msimbazi flows through this coastal forest into the Indian Ocean making it a main thoroughfare for endemic birds migration. The hike through this forest is about 4 hours and is very picturesque. Make sure to take a lot of photographs along the way.

Duration: 1 day
Difficulty level: Easy
Cost: INR 3500
Highlights: Chances of seeing endemic bird species.
Tip: Go for this relaxed excursion to enjoy the nature.

Further Read: Tanzania In December: Witness Wildlife, Adventure And Nature At One Place This Year In Winters!

The United Republic of Tanzania is the largest east African country surrounded by a chain of mountain ranges including Mount Kilimanjaro and the great three lakes of Africa. The country is a basket of nature’s beauty and fury. For a fun hike or professional trekking in Tanzania, book a trip to Africa. Enjoy hiking to the top!

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking To Tanzania

What are the most popular trekking trails in Tanzania?

If you are looking for trails for trekking in Tanzania, then you are in luck because the country boasts of trekking trails that are perfect for both beginners and experienced trekkers. Most of the trails take you to Mount Kilimanjaro, namely, Marangu Route, Rongai Route, Machame Route, Lemosho Route, and many more.

Which trekking trails in Tanzania are perfect for beginners?

Several trails in Tanzania can be availed by beginners as well, including Rongai Route, Marangu Route, Ngorongoro Conservation Park trail, Empakai Crater, and many more.

How much time does one take to climb Mount Meru?

The time permitted to climb Mount Meru is twelve hours. So, you have to complete the entire trekking to Mount Meru within the said time.

Can a beginner climb Mount Kilimanjaro?

Yes, anyone can climb Mount Kilimanjaro because the sloping is quite less compared to other trekking trails.

What is the apt time to go on a trekking tour to Tanzania?

You can go on a trekking tour to Tanzania between January to March and June to October.

How much will it cost to go on a trekking trip to Tanzania?

It totally depends on the trekking trail, but usually, the trips start for INR 1,90,000 though some trails in Tanzania cost more than INR 200,000 per person.

How many days would one take to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro?

If you are a veteran trekker, it will take you six to nine days to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

What is the most popular trail to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania?

Though several trails would take you to Mount Kilimanjaro, the most popular among them is the Machame route. This route is not only the easiest, but it helps you to help you reach the top with minimum inclination. Other trails like the Shira route, Lemosho route, and many others are quite tight since they have high preferences.


Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

People Also Read:

Category: Africa, Tanzania, Trekking

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best Places To Visit Outside India By Month