Mount Hanang

Mount Hanang, Tanzania’s majestic mountain offers the best trekking adventures to hikers from around the world. The Mountain Volcano is elevated to 3,420 m (11,220 ft) hence becoming the fourth highest peak in Tanzania after Mount Kilimanjaro, Meru and Loolmalasin.  It is a strato volcano situated in the Manyara Region, Hanang District with regions like Mount Hanang Nature Forest Reserve, sheltering diverse ecosystems and vital water sources.

Vegetation zones

The mountain volcano comprises of 1,800–2,700 m lush montane forest, ericaceous heath and high-altitude grasslands.

Flora and Fauna Species along the Mountain Volcano are klipspringer, velvet monkeys, bush pigs, hyenas, leopards, endemic mole-rat Fukomys hanangensis, and 400+ bird species.

The volcano is sacred to the Barabaig and Iraqw peoples with features i.e Ficus groves, salt lakes (Gendabi, Balangida), caves, waterfalls, and ritual sites abound.

Routes & Trekking

There are three established routes hikers can follow along the Mountain Volcano. These Include;

  • Katesh Route: this is the most popular and shortest route covering 8.5 kms with 1,600 m elevation gain. This takes a period of 5 to 6 hours to accomplish as you ascend. It requires you to descend for 3 to 4 hours.
  • Gendabi Route: the route is scenic taking you via soda lakes and cultural sites
  • Giting Route: is remote with numerous wildlife animals and bird species that can be watched.

Trek Overview & Difficulty

Distance & Elevation: ~17 km round trip; gain ~1,600–1,800 m

Terrain: Rocky slopes require sure-footed hiking; no significant exposure but steep incline is challenging

Timeframe:

Up: ~5–6 hrs (avg)

Down: ~3–4 hrs

Highlights Along the Way

Summit views: Panoramas over Great Rift Valley, soda lakes (Balangida, Gendabi, Basotu), and the plains below

Forest trails: Hike through lush montane forest with vibrant birdlife, endemic plants, and refreshing waterfalls

Cultural immersion: Engage with Barabaig and Iraqw traditions—sacred rituals, salt-mining, and village hospitality

When to Go
Best: Dry season – June to October (cool, clear skies); also good Nov–Mar

Avoid: Rainy seasons Mar–May, and Nov–Dec—muddy trails, potential landslides (e.g., Dec 2023 event)