Nestled in Northern Tanzania’s Manyara region, Mount Hanang rises to 3,418 metres, making it the fourth-highest peak in the country. Despite its impressive height and natural beauty, it remains one of Tanzania’s lesser-known trekking destinations. The mountain is surrounded by a landscape shaped by agricultural activity and vibrant local cultures. Two major ethnic groups, the Barbaig and the Iraqw, call this region home. The Barbaig, a semi-nomadic pastoralist community, are known for their distinctive traditional attire—women often wear goatskin skirts while the men are dressed in dark fabric and carry spears. The Iraqw people, originally of Cushitic descent, are recognizable by their colorful kangas and are known for their deep-rooted farming traditions. Travelers to the area will not only encounter a unique cultural mosaic but also an abundance of birdlife, with more than 400 species recorded, making it a prime spot for bird watchers and nature lovers alike.
For those seeking adventure, a trek to the summit of Mount Hanang offers both physical challenge and incredible views. While it is possible to complete the climb in a single day—typically taking 9 to 10 hours—a two-day trek is highly recommended. This extended journey allows for better acclimatization, increasing your chances of comfortably reaching the summit, and gives you more time to take in the sweeping panoramas and quiet solitude of the mountain. Along the trail, trekkers pass through farmland, forest, and moorland, encountering a diversity of landscapes that shift with altitude. Though overshadowed by more famous Tanzanian peaks, Mount Hanang promises an intimate and rewarding experience for hikers and cultural explorers alike. For anyone looking to go off the beaten path in Tanzania, this mountain offers an unforgettable combination of nature, culture, and adventure.
