Tanzania Walking & Hiking Safaris

For adventurous travelers seeking a more intimate and immersive experience in the wild, Maramatta Safaris offers exclusive Tanzania Walking & Hiking Safaris.

Walking through Tanzania’s untamed wilderness brings you closer to nature in a way that no game drive can. Feel the crunch of the African soil beneath your feet, track wildlife with expert guides, and encounter the sights, sounds, and smells of the bush up close.

Our walking and hiking safaris take you off the beaten path, allowing you to discover hidden landscapes and explore areas that are inaccessible by vehicle.

Whether you’re walking with Maasai warriors in the plains of Ngorongoro, hiking the forested slopes of Mount Meru, or trekking in the wild of Selous Game Reserve, these safaris provide an authentic and thrilling adventure.

Walking Safari Destinations

1. Ngorongoro Highlands
   The Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife, but it’s the highlands that are perfect for a walking safari. Explore lush forests, volcanic craters, and the beautiful Empakai Crater, home to flamingos and other birdlife. Walking with a Maasai guide, you’ll also learn about their culture, traditions, and relationship with the land.

2. Tarangire National Park
   Famous for its large herds of elephants, Tarangire is also an excellent location for walking safaris. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you’ll walk through acacia woodlands, spotting giraffes, zebras, and various bird species. Walking in Tarangire offers a slower, more intimate way to experience this wildlife-rich park.

3. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
   The remote and wild Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park) is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. Walking safaris here provide an authentic wilderness experience, with opportunities to track animals like lions, wild dogs, and elephants. Selous is a vast and diverse landscape, and walking allows you to appreciate its beauty up close.

4. Mount Kilimanjaro
   A bucket-list destination for hikers, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest peak and offers several trekking routes, including the popular Machame and Marangu routes. While a Kilimanjaro trek is a multi-day adventure, the experience is unforgettable, leading you through diverse ecosystems from tropical rainforests to the alpine desert before reaching the snowy summit.

5. Mount Meru
   Mount Meru, the smaller sister of Kilimanjaro, is an excellent option for those looking for a challenging but shorter trek. Located in Arusha National Park, the hike offers breathtaking views of Kilimanjaro and an opportunity to spot wildlife like giraffes and buffalo. The trek takes you through different landscapes, including montane forests, alpine meadows, and volcanic craters.

6. Longido Mountain
   Located just north of Arusha, Longido Mountain offers a day hike or multi-day trek through Maasai territory. The walk is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural journey, as you’ll interact with Maasai communities along the way. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley.

7. Udzungwa Mountains National Park
   For a unique hiking experience, Udzungwa Mountains is a tropical rainforest with trails leading to spectacular waterfalls and biodiversity-rich environments. The Sanje Waterfall Trail is a popular hike, offering stunning views and the chance to spot endemic species like the Udzungwa red colobus monkey.

Why Choose a Walking & Hiking Safari?

1. Closer to Nature
   Walking safaris allow you to experience Tanzania’s wilderness in a more intimate and personal way. With no vehicle engine to disturb the peace, you’ll hear the sounds of the bush, see the tracks of animals, and encounter wildlife up close.

2. Expert Guides
   Our walking safaris are led by expert guides and armed rangers who are knowledgeable about the terrain, wildlife behavior, and safety. They’ll teach you how to track animals, identify plants, and understand the delicate balance of Tanzania’s ecosystems.

3. Tailored for All Levels
   Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time walker, Maramatta Safaris offers walking and hiking safaris tailored to your fitness level and interests. We provide everything from short nature walks to multi-day treks, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone.

4. Sustainability and Eco-Tourism
   Walking safaris have a low environmental impact, making them an ideal option for eco-conscious travelers. By walking rather than driving, you’ll minimize your carbon footprint while still experiencing Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife.

5. Cultural Insights
   Many of our walking safaris take place in areas inhabited by local tribes, such as the Maasai and Hadzabe. Walking with a local guide offers a deeper cultural connection and allows you to learn about traditional ways of life that are closely tied to the environment.

What to Expect on a Walking & Hiking Safari

• Wildlife Encounters: While walking, you may come across elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Your guide will teach you how to safely observe animals from a distance and read the signs of the bush.

• Scenic Landscapes: Hiking through Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems, from savannahs and forests to volcanic craters and mountain peaks, offers a chance to experience the varied beauty of the country.

• Cultural Experiences: Some hikes, especially in areas like Ngorongoro and Longido, include visits to local villages. Engage with indigenous communities, participate in traditional activities, and learn about their sustainable ways of living.

• Physical Challenge: Walking safaris can vary in difficulty, from leisurely walks on flat terrain to challenging mountain hikes. Each experience offers a unique blend of physical activity, wildlife viewing, and scenic beauty.

Best Time for Walking & Hiking Safaris

The best time for walking safaris in Tanzania is during the dry season from June to October. During this time, the weather is cooler, and the ground is dry, making it easier to walk and spot wildlife.

For mountain treks, especially Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, the dry seasons are also recommended for the best visibility and trail conditions. The two main trekking seasons are January to March and June to October.

FAQs

1. Are walking safaris safe?
Yes, all our walking safaris are led by highly trained and experienced guides, accompanied by an armed ranger where necessary to ensure your safety.

2. What should I bring on a walking safari?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water are essential. Depending on the season, you may also need a light jacket or rain gear.

3. How fit do I need to be for a walking safari?
We offer walking safaris for all fitness levels. Our easier walks are suitable for most people, while our more challenging hikes, such as Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, require a higher level of fitness and preparation.

4. Can I combine a walking safari with a traditional game drive?
Absolutely. Many of our itineraries combine walking safaris with game drives, allowing you to experience both up-close wilderness encounters and the comfort of vehicle-based wildlife viewing.

5. Is there a minimum age for walking safaris?
For safety reasons, we typically recommend that children be at least 12 years old to participate in walking safaris, though this can vary depending on the location and difficulty of the walk.

At Maramatta Safaris, our Tanzania Walking & Hiking Safaris offer an adventurous and intimate way to experience the beauty and diversity of Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife.

Whether you’re trekking to the summit of a mountain or walking through the African plains, our expert guides will ensure you have an unforgettable and safe adventure.