10 Best Trails in Tanzania

Ready to check out the 10 best trails in Tanzania for hiking, mountain biking, climbing or other outdoor activities? Tanzania Hiking has 21 hiking trails, mountain biking routes, backpacking trips and more. Discover hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. No matter what you’re looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in Tanzania to suit your needs. Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 22 routes with waterfalls or scenic views.

Top Tanzania Hiking Trails

#1 – Mount Kilimanjaro: Machame Route

10 Best trails in Tanzania

This is the route to climb Kilimanjaro via Machame route. Seven day trip, camping on the mountain six nights.

Try this 57.0-km point-to-point trail near Kibosho Magharibi, Kilimanjaro. Generally considered a challenging route. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are July through October. You’ll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.

Read More about Machame Route

Best Trails in Arusha

Are you looking for the top trails in Arusha for hiking, mountain biking, climbing, or other outdoor activities? Tanzania Hiking offers 2 premier hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and backpacking trips that are perfect for nature enthusiasts. Discover expertly curated trail maps, complete with reviews and photos from fellow adventurers. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful hike or a thrilling outdoor experience, Arusha has a diverse range of the best trails to meet your needs. Plan your next adventure on 3 stunning routes featuring breathtaking waterfalls.

Best Trails in Arusha

MOUNT MERU

Mount Meru, often overshadowed by its towering neighbor, Mount Kilimanjaro, is a hidden gem in Tanzania. Despite being the country’s second-highest peak, it is frequently overlooked by climbers. However, after summiting both Meru and Kilimanjaro, I can confidently say that a Mount Meru climb is a worthwhile addition to your Tanzania itinerary, offering a unique and rewarding adventure.

Mt Meru and ash cone. Tanzania. Africa.

OL DOINYO LENGAI – VOLCANO – ADVANCED

Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is an active volcano located in northern Tanzania. It is renowned for being the only volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, which is unusually cool and fluid compared to typical lava. The climb to the summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai is challenging, with steep slopes and loose volcanic ash, but the breathtaking views from the top and the unique geological features make it a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a must-visit for adventure seekers and those interested in volcanic landscapes.

Best Trails in Arusha oldonyo legai

MONDULI JUU MOUNTAINS

The Monduli Juu Mountains, located near Arusha in northern Tanzania, offer an off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking adventure and cultural immersion. This range is known for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and traditional Maasai villages. The area is perfect for hiking, with trails that take you through lush forests, grassy plains, and up to scenic viewpoints overlooking the Great Rift Valley and Mount Meru.

A trek in the Monduli Juu Mountains not only provides an opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty but also offers a chance to learn about the Maasai culture firsthand. The local Maasai people often welcome visitors, allowing you to experience their way of life, from traditional dances to their unique customs. This destination is ideal for travelers looking for a blend of nature, culture, and a serene atmosphere away from the more crowded tourist spots.

Best Trails in Arusha monduli mountains

Machame Route, otherwise known as the “whiskey route” is one of the most popular routes to summit Mount Kilimanjaro since it has existed on the mountain for many years. According to official Kilimanjaro national park statistics, the Machame Route is so popular that 50% of climbers use this route to summit Kilimanjaro. It is also definitely one of our favorites alongside the Lemosho Route which is very scenic. Below are some of the reasons why you will fall in love with this route.

Machame Route has one of the highest summit success rates that could easily reach a high 90%. To achieve a high summit success rate, the 7 day Machame Route tour itinerary is recommended.
This route is an amazing acclimatization route as it applies the “walk high, sleep low” principle very well.
The Marangu route rewards climbers with amazing scenery as you traverse vegetation and climatic zones of every kind on your way up the mountain.
The route also gives you the ultimate opportunity to conquer and climb the Great Barranco Wall.
The Machame Route will give you a great chance of reaching the Uhuru peak Summit.

Related Kilimanjaro Routes