Mount Hanang
Mount Hanang, A Dormant Volcano Sacred To The Barabaig People And The Fourth Highest In Tanzania, Climbed On A One Or Two Day Trek From Katesh Via The Jorodom Route. Less Crowded Than Kilimanjaro Or Meru, With A Ranger Required And Good Views Of The Rift Valley. · Katesh, Manyara
Mount Hanang is a dormant volcano of 3,417 m rising alone from the plain above Katesh, one of the highest mountains in Tanzania. A ranger-guided hike climbs through farmland, montane forest, bamboo and heath to the crater rim, with views over the Rift Valley and Lake Balangida Lelu. The peak is not technical, and most fit walkers can do it in one long day or two days with a camp. The Barabaig and Iraqw people hold the mountain sacred, so go with respect. The honest picture: this is a fine climb for hikers who want solitude and a cheap trip, and it is far quieter than Kilimanjaro or Meru. There is almost no tourist infrastructure beyond basic guesthouses in Katesh, the cloud and wind at the top can hide the view, and it is not a top-tier trip. It suits someone already in Arusha or Babati with a spare two days. Do not come for comfort; come for the walk. Ask at the ranger post about the weather before you set out, and be ready to turn back if the cloud closes in, since a good guide will decide that for you and the summit will still be there next time.
Volcano of 3,417 m on the plain south of Lake Balangida, the fourth-highest mountain in Tanzania, climbed from the village of Katesh about 190 km south-west of Arusha, Katesh, Manyara, Tanzania
The forest reserve is open every day of the year, and climbs start at first light from the trailhead. Rangers do not guide after dark, and you should be off the upper slopes before late afternoon. Trails are CLOSED or unsafe in heavy rain. Confirm with the ranger post.