Best Trekking Routes in Tanzania 2025
Tanzania is world-famous for Mount Kilimanjaro, but did you know that it has many other incredible hiking trails? From untouched rainforests and volcanic craters to rugged mountain peaks and hidden waterfalls, Tanzania offers new and exciting hiking routes for adventure lovers in 2025.
If you’re looking to explore off-the-beaten-path trails and experience Tanzania’s raw beauty, this guide covers the best new hiking routes to check out this year!
Why Hike in Tanzania?
- Diverse landscapes – From high mountains to coastal forests
- Wildlife encounters – Spot elephants, monkeys, and rare birds
- Less crowded trails – Escape the busy tourist routes
- Camping & adventure – Sleep under the stars in Tanzania’s wilderness
Best New Hiking Routes in Tanzania (2025)
1. Usambara Mountains: The Secret Highlands
- Location: Northern Tanzania (near Lushoto)
- Duration: 2-5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
The Usambara Mountains offer some of Tanzania’s most scenic and culturally rich hiking experiences. New trails in Mambo, Irente, and Rangwi take hikers through lush forests, ancient villages, and stunning viewpoints.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking views over the Maasai Steppe
- Visit traditional Sambaa villages
- Birdwatching paradise (over 300 species!)
2. Udzungwa Mountains: Waterfalls & Wildlife
- Location: Southern Tanzania
- Duration: 1-3 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
A hidden gem for hikers, the Udzungwa Mountains offer newly opened trails through thick rainforests, leading to spectacular waterfalls and untouched wildlife areas.
Highlights:
- Trek to the 130m-high Sanje Waterfalls
- See rare species like the Udzungwa red colobus monkey
- Stay in eco-friendly forest lodges
3. Mount Hanang: Tanzania’s 4th-Highest Peak
- Location: Manyara Region
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Difficulty: Challenging
Less famous than Kilimanjaro but just as thrilling, Mount Hanang (3,417m) is Tanzania’s fourth-highest mountain and offers an uncrowded, adventurous climb.
Highlights:
- Steep volcanic slopes with panoramic views
- Rich cultural experience with the Barabaig people
- Wild camping under the stars
4. Ngorongoro Highlands: Crater to Crater Trek
- Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Duration: 5-7 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
This new multi-day trek connects the Ngorongoro Crater to the Empakaai and Olmoti Craters, offering a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, Maasai culture, and wildlife encounters.
Highlights:
- Walk with Maasai guides through sacred lands
- See flamingos at Empakaai Crater Lake
- Camp in the remote highlands far from tourist crowds
5. Mahale Mountains: Chimps & Untouched Wilderness
- Location: Western Tanzania (Lake Tanganyika)
- Duration: 3-5 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
Located deep in Mahale Mountains National Park, this hike takes you through pristine forests and up Mount Nkungwe (2,462m)—the highest peak in the region.
Highlights:
- Trek with wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat
- Enjoy stunning views of Lake Tanganyika
- Stay in remote beachfront lodges
6. Kitulo Plateau: The “Serengeti of Flowers”
- Location: Southern Tanzania
- Duration: 1-2 days
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Nicknamed the “Serengeti of Flowers”, Kitulo Plateau is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, featuring rare orchids, wildflowers, and rolling grasslands.
Highlights:
- Over 350 plant species bloom in vibrant colors
- Panoramic hikes with endless mountain views
- Best time to visit: November–April (flower season)
Best Time to Hike in Tanzania (2025)
- June – October: Best for clear skies and dry conditions
- November – April: Best for flowers and lush green landscapes
- Avoid March – May: Heavy rains make trails slippery
How to Prepare for Hiking in Tanzania
- Choose the right trail – Match your experience level
- Pack wisely – Sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sunscreen
- Go with a guide – Many trails require local guides
- Respect nature & culture – Follow eco-friendly hiking rules
Why You Should Hike in Tanzania in 2025
If you love adventure, nature, and off-the-grid travel, Tanzania’s new hiking routes are perfect for you. Whether it’s trekking with chimpanzees in Mahale, climbing the volcanic slopes of Mount Hanang, or exploring the lush Usambara Mountains, there’s a trail for every explorer.
So, which hiking route will you explore first?
FAQs
1. What is the best new hiking route in Tanzania?
The Ngorongoro Highlands trek is one of the best new routes, combining wildlife, culture, and stunning landscapes.
2. Do I need a guide for hiking in Tanzania?
Yes, most trails require a guide for safety and conservation reasons, especially in national parks.
3. What is the best time of year for hiking in Tanzania?
The dry season (June–October) is the best for clear skies and comfortable trekking conditions.
4. Are these hikes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Routes like Kitulo Plateau and Udzungwa Mountains are beginner-friendly, while Mount Hanang and Ngorongoro Highlands are more challenging.
5. Can I see wildlife while hiking in Tanzania?
Absolutely! Expect to see chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, rare birds, and even lions (with proper safety measures).