A Quick Guide to Tanzania’s Top Spots

Tanzania is a mecca for trekkers and climbers who come to experience this country’s stunning mountainous landscapes. Of course, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most famous mountains in the world, but there are some other fantastic mountains here that any keen climber should experience. Here are five of the best.

Mount Kilimanjaro Summit

The best known and tallest mountain on the African continent, Mount Kilimanjaro may be the highest free-standing mountain anywhere worldwide but it is a surprisingly easy climb, mostly being scaled on two popular routes – Machame and Marangu. A key factor in choosing the right route for you is the types of accommodation on offer.

The easiest to hike is one of the main Kilimanjaro routes, called Marangu, with its gradual incline and cosy mountain huts where you can sleep. On the other hand, although Machame is a more challenging climb, it does afford some outstanding views. There are also no accommodation options on this route so you’d need to camp. Regardless of which route you decide to take, you’re sure to have a wonderful adventure exploring this famous mountain.

If you’d like to learn more about trekking Kilamanjaro, have a look at Mollie’s journey to the top!

Meru

If you’re looking for adventure and excitement, Meru has it in spades. As Tanzania’s second highest peak, Mt Meru boasts panoramic views over Arusha town and is in the heart of Arusha National Park. While the climb may be shorter than that offered by the better-known Kilimanjaro, it offers more diversity, with different landscapes and animals to see during the ascent. You’ll also be amazed by the views too, especially when climbing down to the Meru Crater. There are mountain huts along the descent and climb route so you can be certain of a comfortable rest after a long day on the trail.

Ol Donyo Lengai

If you’ve always loved the idea of climbing up an active volcano, Ol Donyo Lengai is the mountain climb for you. Found on the Kenya border, you can climb and descend within a single day while enjoying fantastic views over the Ngorongoro Highlands and the Great Rift Valley during the ascent, and if you love birds, you’re sure to appreciate the views over Lake Natron where Lesser Flamingos breed.

This mountain is the ideal choice for you if you only have limited time but want to get in some climbing during your vacation. One favourite tip is to try to get to the summit just as the sun rises so that you can enjoy the best possible view of the crater and volcano.

Usambara

If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, the Usambara mountains are perfect with their numerous spectacular viewpoints and diversely rain rainforests. Usually, visitors will take an excursion to this area so they can take a hike through the forest to visit the Wasambaa villages. There’s no better way to experience the local region, to meet its residents and to find out more about how they live.

Some of the top highlights of the area include the stunning views over the Massai plains, Mazinde Village and the Jaegertal farmlands. You’re sure to find the fauna and flora spectacular too, especially if you’re a keen botanist. One top activity here is to take a walking safari to the waterfalls on the Sanje River, although visiting the game reserves nearby comes a close second.

Udzungwa

The Udzungwa National Park covers an enormous 1990 square kilometres and is a truly impressive destination, especially if you’re keen to climb and visit mountainous terrain and to see vast amounts of wildlife. You’ll find six monkey species here, including the Sanje Crested Mangabey and Iringa red colobus monkey, both of which are native to the region.

You’ll also discover that this plateau is home to buffalos, elephants, leopards and lions – enough wildlife to satisfy even the keenest nature enthusiast! Even better, the mountain scenery here is some of the most impressive in Tanzania with its rocky areas, rolling grasslands, rushing waterfalls and winding rivers. You’ll also find plant species here which can’t be found anywhere else worldwide. There are organised tours within this region as well as safaris and day trips which you can go on to explore this beautiful area.

What Else Is There To Experience On A Holiday To Tanzania?

Not only are there some wonderful mountains in Tanzania that you can climb, there is a wealth of fun activities to enjoy in this beautiful African country. While the natural attractions like the Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks, the rainforest and plains are a popular draw, there are many other things to experience too including stunning islands and beaches such as Jambiani Beach where the white sands and fantastic marine life really must be seen to be believed, or Pemba Island, a shining example of outstanding marine biodiversity.

If you enjoy visiting museums you’ll also be spoiled for choice here. The Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre teaches you more about the history and heritage of this local area, and you can also buy handicrafts made locally and see locally produced art. If you’re interested in archaeology, the Olduvai Gorge Museum has many artifacts which have been discovered here over the last few years.

Why Visit Tanzania?

If you love mountain climbing, there are few places in the world so perfect for you as Tanzania. While most people are unaware that this African country is home to such a large number of stunning mountain landscapes, this destination is the ideal spot to enjoy trekking and climbing to the fullest.

Whether you want to dedicate a full week of your holiday to climbing or whether you want to just take a single day out of your schedule to complete a spectacular mountain route, you can experience it all here in Tanzania. Also, when you’re ready to take some time out to explore, you’ll find the local culture, heritage, scenery and wildlife more than enough to keep you entertained for an all-round amazing holiday on the African continent that is hard to beat.

When looking for hotels, check out Trip Advisor’s list of the best hotels in Tanzania. You can also search for deals on luxury accommodations with Hotels Combined.