Tanzania’s Southern Highlands

Mount Rungwe

The Extinct Volcano (2,981m)

Discover the Highlands

Why Climb Mount Rungwe?

Ngozi Crater Lake

Visit the spectacular turquoise caldera lake, hidden within a secondary crater.

Unique Biodiversity

Trek through habitat of colobus monkeys, bushbuck, and endemic Southern Highland birds.

Southern Discovery Route

Perfectly situated for combining with Kitulo Plateau and Lake Nyasa adventures.

Montane Forest and The Southern Peaks

Mount Rungwe is an extinct volcano that dominates the landscape near the town of Mbeya. The slopes are covered in dense, misty Afromontane forest, known for its high rainfall, lush ferns, and beautiful moss-draped trees.

The trekking experience here is one of solitude, offering an intimate immersion into nature far from the crowds of Northern Tanzania. It provides a challenging, non-technical summit experience.

Summit Height: 2,981m
Trek Style: Day hike or 2-day trek (camping)
Local Economy: Surrounded by tea and coffee plantations
Mount Rungwe Forest

Crater Summit: 2,981m

Essential Trekking Itinerary

1

Mbeya Arrival & Preparation

Arrive in the Southern Highlands hub of Mbeya. Transfer to a guesthouse near the mountain for rest and briefing on the trek logistics.

1 day (Travel)
2

Mount Rungwe Ascent & Descent

Start early and trek through the montane forest zone, passing bamboo stands and heather. Reach the summit ridge (2,981m) and descend on the same day.

6-8 hours (Total Trek)
3

Ngozi Crater Excursion

Dedicated visit to Ngozi, a separate, easily accessible crater. Enjoy the views of the stunning lake, often shrouded in mist for a mystical atmosphere.

2-3 hours (Excursion)
4

Highland Discovery Connection

Connect to the Kitulo Plateau (The Serengeti of Flowers) or descend toward Lake Nyasa for a relaxing beach stay or exploration of local tea estates.

The Source of Fine Tanzanian Coffee

The rich volcanic soil surrounding Mount Rungwe and the consistent rainfall create ideal conditions for growing high-quality Arabica coffee and tea. Many tours include a visit to a local farm, allowing you to see the entire process from bean to cup.

"Rungwe is the quiet poet of Tanzania’s peaks — serene, mysterious, and endlessly alive."