Conquer the Peaks of Tanzania
From the icy summit of Kilimanjaro to the unique, active volcano of Ol Doinyo Lengai, find your next high-altitude adventure.
Explore Treks & RoutesPremier Tanzania Climbing Routes
Mount Kilimanjaro
5,895m (19,341ft)
Africa's highest peak and the world's tallest free-standing mountain. Choose from multiple scenic routes to the 'Roof of Africa'.
Machame Route (Whiskey) Details
- Duration: 6-7 Days
- Success Rate: High
- Style: Camping, scenic, popular.
Group Pricing (Per Person, USD):
| Group Size | Price (PP) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $4,500 |
| 2 Persons | $4,000 pp |
| 3 Persons | $3,800 pp |
| 4 Persons | $3,500 pp |
| 5 Persons | $3,300 pp |
| 6+ People | $3,100 pp |
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Machame Gate to Machame Camp (3,000m)
Trek through the lush rainforest. Altitude gain: 1,200m. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Day 2: Machame Camp to Shira Camp (3,840m)
The path gets steeper, ascending through moorland. Great views of Kibo Peak. Altitude gain: 840m. Duration: 4-6 hours.
Day 3: Shira Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Acclimatization day! Climb high (Lava Tower, 4,600m) and sleep low (Barranco). Essential for success. Duration: 6-8 hours.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Conquer the famous Barranco Wall (a scramble) and trek through valleys. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Short but steep climb to the high camp, preparing for the summit attempt tonight. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3,080m)
Summit night (midnight start) to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Descent to Mweka Camp. Duration: 14-16 hours total.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final 3-hour descent through the rainforest to the gate. Transfer back to Moshi/Arusha.
Lemosho Route Details
- Duration: 7-8 Days
- Success Rate: Highest
- Style: Camping, remote start, best for acclimatization.
Group Pricing (Per Person, USD):
| Group Size | Price (PP) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $5,200 |
| 2 Persons | $4,800 pp |
| 3 Persons | $4,500 pp |
| 4 Persons | $4,200 pp |
| 5 Persons | $4,000 pp |
| 6+ People | $3,700 pp |
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,750m)
Long drive to the gate, shorter trek through pristine forest. Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day 2: Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)
Ascend to the Shira Plateau, offering panoramic views. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
High altitude acclimatization day, climbing high (4,600m) and sleeping low.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Ascend the Barranco Wall, a fun scramble. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Short but steep climb to the high camp, preparing for the summit attempt tonight. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3,080m)
Summit push starting at midnight to Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Long descent to Mweka. Duration: 14-16 hours total.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final descent and transfer out. Duration: 3 hours.
Marangu Route (Coca-Cola) Details
- Duration: 5-6 Days
- Success Rate: Lower
- Style: Hut accommodation, easiest gradient, less scenic.
Group Pricing (Per Person, USD):
| Group Size | Price (PP) |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $3,500 |
| 2 Persons | $3,100 pp |
| 3 Persons | $2,900 pp |
| 4 Persons | $2,700 pp |
| 5 Persons | $2,500 pp |
| 6+ People | $2,300 pp |
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut (2,720m)
Gentle trek through the rainforest. Altitude: 2,720m. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 2: Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Pass through forest and enter the moorland. Altitude: 3,720m. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Day 3: Horombo Hut (Acclimatization Day)
Optional extra day for acclimatization (highly recommended), usually involving a short hike towards Mawenzi Peak.
Day 4: Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut (4,700m)
Ascend into the alpine desert zone. Altitude: 4,700m. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Day 5: Kibo Hut to Summit to Horombo Hut (3,720m)
Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak, followed by a long descent back to Horombo Hut. Duration: 12-16 hours total.
Day 6: Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate (1,640m)
Final, long descent through the lower slopes and rainforest. Transfer out. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Umbwe Route Details
- Duration: 5-6 Days
- Success Rate: Low
- Style: Short, steep, direct route for experienced climbers. Poor acclimatization.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Umbwe Gate to Umbwe Cave Camp (2,940m)
A very steep ascent through the rainforest on the narrow ridge. Duration: 5-6 hours.
Day 2: Umbwe Cave Camp to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Continue up to Barranco Valley, joining other routes. Duration: 5-7 hours.
Day 3: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Ascend the Barranco Wall, followed by a short trek to Karanga. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 4: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Ascent to high camp for the midnight summit push. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3,080m)
Summit attempt to Uhuru Peak, then long descent to Mweka Camp. Duration: 14-16 hours total.
Day 6: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final descent and transfer out. Duration: 3 hours.
Shira Plateau Route Details
- Duration: 6-8 Days
- Success Rate: High
- Style: High elevation start, merges with Lemosho. Dramatic views.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Londorossi Gate to Shira I Camp (3,500m)
High-altitude start with a relatively gentle walk across the Shira ridge. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 2: Shira I Camp to Shira 2 Camp (3,840m)
Cross the Shira Plateau, a beautiful walk with views of the great Rift Valley. Duration: 3-4 hours.
Day 3: Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower to Barranco Camp (3,950m)
Critical acclimatization day: climb high, sleep low. Duration: 6-8 hours.
Day 4: Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp (4,035m)
Climb the Barranco Wall. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 5: Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,640m)
Ascent to Barafu Camp. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 6: Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3,080m)
Summit push (5,895m) and descent. Duration: 14-16 hours total.
Day 7: Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate (1,640m)
Final descent and transfer out. Duration: 3 hours.
General Price Estimates:
| Package Style | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Budget Camping (Marangu/Machame) | $1,800 - $2,500 |
| Mid-Range (Machame/Lemosho) | $3,000 - $4,500 |
| Premium (Lemosho/Northern Circuit) | $5,000+ |
*Exact pricing depends on route duration, group size, and service level.
Essential Climbing Tips:
- Pace yourself—the climb is a trek, not a race. "Pole Pole!" (slowly slowly) is the key.
- Prioritize fluid intake to combat altitude sickness.
- Lemosho and Northern Circuit offer the best success rates due to longer acclimatization time.
Mount Meru
4,566m (14,980ft)
The second-highest peak in Tanzania, offering spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. An ideal acclimatization trek before tackling Kili.
Momella Route Details
- Duration: 3-4 Days
- Success Rate: High
- Style: Hut accommodation, mandatory armed ranger.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Momella Gate to Miriakamba Hut (2,514m)
Trek through open grassland and forest, often spotting wildlife with an armed ranger. Duration: 4-5 hours.
Day 2: Miriakamba Hut to Saddle Hut (3,570m)
Steep but shorter ascent through the forest. Afternoon optional climb to Little Meru (3,820m) for acclimatization. Duration: 3-5 hours.
Day 3: Saddle Hut to Summit (4,566m) to Miriakamba Hut
Summit push begins early (2 am) across the rocky ridge to Socialist Peak. Descent back to Miriakamba. Duration: 10-14 hours total.
Day 4: Miriakamba Hut to Momella Gate
Final easy descent, passing through plains and possibly seeing more wildlife. Duration: 2-3 hours.
General Price Estimates:
| Package Style | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| 3-Day Standard Trek | $800 - $1,200 |
| 4-Day Acclimatization Trek | $1,000 - $1,500 |
*Exact pricing depends on route duration, group size, and service level.
Essential Climbing Tips:
- This is an armed trek—an armed ranger is required for protection against wildlife (especially buffaloes).
- The ascent is steep, but the lower altitude makes summit day less taxing than on Kili.
- The mountain huts are rustic but well-maintained.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
2,962m (9,718ft)
Known as the 'Mountain of God' to the Maasai, this is the only active volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, which appears black in sunlight.
Midnight Ascent Details
- Duration: 1 Day (Overnight)
- Success Rate: Moderate
- Style: Extremely strenuous, steep scree slopes, must start at midnight.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1 (PM): Lake Natron Base Camp
Relax and eat early dinner. Begin drive to the mountain base around 11:30 PM.
Day 2 (Midnight): Ascent to Crater Rim (2,962m)
Start climbing at midnight to avoid the searing daytime heat. The ascent is on unstable scree and ash. Duration: 6-8 hours up.
Day 2 (Sunrise): Crater Rim and Descent
Watch the sunrise and view the unique natrocarbonatite lava pits. Immediate, fast descent after sunrise. Duration: 3-4 hours down.
Day 2 (Morning): Base to Lodge Transfer
Arrive at the base, enjoy a well-earned breakfast, and transfer to your lodge or continue safari.
General Price Estimates:
| Package Style | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1-Day Overnight Climb (Incl. Guide/Ranger) | $500 - $800 |
| 2-Day Combo (Incl. Lake Natron trip) | $750 - $1,100 |
*Exact pricing depends on route duration, group size, and service level.
Essential Climbing Tips:
- Unique Lava: The natrocarbonatite lava is highly fluid and cools quickly, appearing dark or grey—it is not the red, flowing lava of typical volcanoes.
- Extreme Ascent: The climb is very strenuous and steep, undertaken at night to avoid extreme daytime heat.
- Combine this trip with a visit to Lake Natron to see the flamingos.
Usambara Mountains
Up to 2,400m (7,900ft)
A biodiversity hotspot known for its lush, ancient forests and breathtaking viewpoints. Offers gentle hiking, cultural village visits, and is perfect for nature lovers.
Magamba Forest Hike Details
- Duration: 1-2 Days
- Success Rate: Very High
- Style: Day hikes, birdwatching, historical German caves.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Lushoto to Magamba Forest
Guided trek through the forest, visiting the famous German historical caves and waterfalls. Focus on nature and birdlife. Duration: 5 hours.
Day 2: Irente Viewpoint & Return
Morning hike to Irente Viewpoint for stunning views over the Maasai plains. Afternoon return to Lushoto. Duration: 4 hours.
Mazumbai Forest Reserve Details
- Duration: 3 Days
- Success Rate: Very High
- Style: Deep forest, endemic species, quiet, guided.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Transfer to Mazumbai & Forest Entry
Travel to the remote Mazumbai reserve, check into basic accommodation, and take a short introductory nature walk.
Day 2: Deep Forest Exploration
Full day trek deep into the ancient forest, specifically searching for endemic bird species and chameleons. Focus on biodiversity.
Day 3: Morning Walk & Departure
Final morning walk before enjoying breakfast and transferring back out of the reserve.
Mtae Viewpoint & Cultural Trek Details
- Duration: 3-4 Days
- Success Rate: Very High
- Style: Village stays, focus on local culture, easy trekking.
Detailed group pricing available upon inquiry.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Lushoto to Mtae Village
Trek (or drive) to Mtae, the highest point, for the incredible sunset viewpoint over the plains. Overnight in a local guest house.
Day 2: Shambaa Village Visits
Easy trekking day visiting local Shambaa villages, observing traditional farming and cultural practices.
Day 3: Farming & Return Trek
Morning activity (e.g., cooking lesson or farm visit) followed by the trek back towards Lushoto.
General Price Estimates:
| Package Style | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| 2-Day Guided Hike (Basic) | $250 - $400 |
| 4-Day Cultural Trek (Full Board) | $600 - $900 |
*Exact pricing depends on route duration, group size, and service level.
Essential Climbing Tips:
- This is a hiking and cultural destination, not a high-altitude climb.
- The area is known for its endemic bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.
- Stay in one of the local mission hostels or community-run guesthouses for an authentic experience.
Client Success Stories
"Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Lemosho Route was the hardest and most rewarding thing I've ever done. The team was supportive, professional, and their focus on safety was exceptional. Highly recommended!"
— Sarah J.
London, UK (Climbed Kilimanjaro)
"Mount Meru was the perfect warm-up trek. The armed ranger made us feel secure, and the views of Kili at sunrise were absolutely breathtaking. A fantastic experience before the main event."
— Kwame N.
Arusha, Tanzania (Climbed Meru)
"I wanted an off-the-beaten-path adventure, and Ol Doinyo Lengai delivered! The midnight climb was intense, but reaching the crater rim to see the unique lava was unforgettable. True adventure climbing."
— Marc T.
New York, USA (Climbed Ol Doinyo Lengai)
Client Feedback & Community Questions
Recent Community Discussions
Sarah K.
5 days ago
"We used FanSassy for our Serengeti trip and it was incredible! The guides were professional and the lodges were fantastic. Highly recommend the Great Migration tour!"
Michael L.
2 days ago
What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro for a beginner? I'm interested in the Machame route.
FanSassy Safaris Admin Reply
1 day ago
Great question, Michael! The best dry seasons are Jan-March and June-Oct. For detailed booking advice, feel free to reach us on WhatsApp or reply to the follow-up email we've sent you from **info@fansassysafaris.com**!
Client Feedback & Community Questions
Share Your Experience or Ask a Question
Recent Comments
Sarah K.
5 days ago
We used FanSassy for our Serengeti trip and it was incredible! The guides were professional and the lodges were fantastic. Highly recommend the Great Migration tour!
Michael L.
2 days ago
What is the best time of year to climb Kilimanjaro for a beginner? I'm interested in the Machame route.
FanSassy Safaris (Admin)
1 day ago
Great question, Michael! The best dry seasons are Jan-March and June-Oct. For detailed booking advice, feel free to reach us on WhatsApp or reply to the follow-up email we've sent you!
Share Your Experience or Ask a Question