Tanzania is one of the best destinations for a mountain climbing holiday. Warm up by tackling Mount Meru before the main event, Mount Kilimanjaro.
Why Should You Go on a Mountain Climbing Safari in Tanzania?
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and one of the seven summits, making it a bucket list experience for avid mountain climbers. You don’t need any technical skills to climb this mountain – it’s basically a hike up to the peak. However, altitude sickness is possible, so climbers should prepare for that.
Explore Mount Meru
Located in Arusha National Park, Mount Meru is Tanzania’s second-highest mountain and the country’s lesser-climbed peak.
This means fewer crowds! It’s also a shorter hike compared to Mount Kilimanjaro and offers abundant wildlife sightings. Meru is a great mountain to tackle to acclimatise before taking on the main event: Kilimanjaro.
Combine Trekking With a Safari
Tanzania isn’t just a fantastic country for mountain climbing; it’s one of the best safari destinations in the world!
Combine your mountain trekking with a few days in nearby national parks. Go to the Serengeti for a Big Five safari or visit the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the best places to see the endangered black rhino.
Experience Diverse Ecosystems
As you ascend either Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, you’ll trek through a variety of climates and environments. From grasslands teeming with buffaloes and thick mountain forests with resident monkeys to alpine deserts and tundra, the diversity is stunning to behold.
Challenge Yourself
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru is a challenge – physically and mentally! You’ll have to deal with a variety of difficulties, but it’s so worth it in the end when you stand at the peak and see the incredible view. Trekking these mountains is done with experts by your side, so rest assured you’ll have seasoned climbers with you the whole way.
Enjoy Breathtaking Views
The panoramic views from the summit really make every challenge you face on the way up worth it! When you reach the roof of Africa – the top of Mount Kilimanjaro – you’ll be dazzled by the beauty all around you.
Make a Difference
When you go on a mountain climbing safari in Tanzania, you contribute to the local communities. Trekking tours form part of the economy here, and your trip helps support porters and guides.
Best Destinations for a Mountain Climbing Safari in Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro in Northern Tanzania
As the highest peak in Africa and the world’s tallest freestanding mountain, measuring in at 5,895 metres (19,341 feet), Mount Kilimanjaro attracts hikers and mountain climbers from all over the world.
Depending on the route you take and your pace, a round-trip climb takes around five to nine days.
Mount Meru in Arusha National Park
Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-tallest mountain at 4,566 metres (14,980 feet), is a fantastic place to start out.
Climbing this mountain first will help you acclimatise and prepare for Mount Kilimanjaro, plus it’s less crowded and offers abundant wildlife sightings. Ascent and descent of Mount Meru will take around three days.
5 Tips for a Mountain Climbing Safari in Tanzania
1. Train Before You Go
Prepare yourself physically and mentally before going on your trip. Even though climbing Mount Kilimanjaro doesn’t require technical skills, you still need to be hiking fit. And you’ll need to be prepared for high altitudes.
2. Have a Professional on Your Side
It’s essential that you have an expert guide with you on your climb. By booking with us, we will help you choose a reputable operator that supports ethical treatment of porters.
3. Don’t Rush
Don’t attempt to rush through the hike. It’s important to pace yourself, listen to your body, stop when you need to, and take time to rest. This will help you avoid altitude sickness. Also, stay hydrated!
4. Pack Appropriately
You need to be prepared for various weather conditions. Pack waterproof clothing as well as thermal clothing and gloves for the colder climates. For the humid conditions, pack lightweight, breathable items. Also, ensure your hiking boots are worn in to avoid pain.
5. Take Acclimatisation Seriously
Acclimatisation can make or break your hiking experience. If you don’t acclimatise, you might need to stop your climb and go back down. Take an extra day for acclimatisation to increase summit success.