Cycling Around Mount Kilimanjaro

Cycling Around Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania

Cycling around Mount Kilimanjaro is a popular adventure activity that offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes of Tanzania. The journey typically involves a mix of off-road trails and paved roads, passing through lush rainforests, vast savannahs, and traditional Maasai villages. Cyclists get to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, while also experiencing the rich culture and diverse wildlife of the region. The challenge and duration of the trip can vary depending on the route and pace, but it generally requires a good level of fitness and preparation.

What is the best time of the year for cycling around Mount Kilimanjaro?

The best time to cycle around Mount Kilimanjaro is during the dry seasons, which are from late June to October and from late December to early March. These periods offer the most favorable weather conditions for cycling, with less rainfall and clearer paths. However, it’s important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the local forecast and prepare accordingly.

Cycling Around Mount Kilimanjaro Itinerary 

Cycling around Mount Kilimanjaro is a thrilling adventure that typically spans over 7 days. The itinerary usually starts from Moshi town, taking cyclists through lush rainforests, vast savannahs, and Maasai villages, offering breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The route includes challenging terrains and steep climbs, making it suitable for experienced cyclists. Along the way, cyclists can witness diverse wildlife, interact with local communities, and experience the stunning landscapes of Tanzania. The journey concludes back in Moshi, providing a full circuit around the iconic mountain.

You will be picked up at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and transferred to Park View Hotel in Moshi town situated on the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Today you will meet your guide who will brief you about your upcoming tour and together you will do the bike fitting. For those arriving on the morning or afternoon flight, you will have ample time to go for a quick warming-up ride through the nearby coffee plantation and surrounding villages.

Accommodation: Park View Hotel

Our ride today takes us from the greener southern side of Mt. Kilimanjaro towards the more arid western side of the mountain. Your ride today will initially take you through coffee and banana plantations as you cycle through the more fertile areas of southern Kilimanjaro but as you head west you will cycle through the more arid open plains and acacia woodlands. These plains support a remarkable variety of wildlife and spectacular views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. While Moshi is home to the Chagga people west Kilimanjaro plains are home to the nomadic Maasai people who co-exist with the surrounding wildlife and it is why this area is known as the Maasai Lands. Your ride today will be on both dirt and tarmac roads and you will finish the ride at the Tinga Tinga village where you will be spending the night.

• Accommodation: Olpopongi Maasai Village
• Road Surface: Tarmac, dirt & gravel road
• Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Our ride today takes us through the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, which is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. Enduimet borders Amboseli National Park and serves as an important migratory route for wildlife including the African elephants. This area is inhabited primarily by the Maasai people but there are large populations of other tribes such as the Chagga, Meru, and Pare people. Your ride starts on the wide open plains dotted with acacia trees but it gets greener as you approach the lower slopes of Kilimanjaro where a lot of cultivation takes place. Your cycling tour today ends at Simba Farm which is situated on top of the vast wheat and barley fields overlooking the west Kilimanjaro plains.

• Accommodation: Simba Farm Camp
• Road Surface: Tarmac & dirt road
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today you will be cycling towards the northeast side of Mt. Kilimanjaro to Nalemoru village near the Kenyan border. Nalemoru village is where the Rongai route up Kilimanjaro starts. Your ride today takes you through beautiful open farmlands with breathtaking views of the west Kilimanjaro plains behind you. You will cycle through several vibrant towns as you head up the foothills of the mountain towards the Rongai forest. Your ride today ends at the Snowcap Cottages which are nestled right on the edge of the Rongai forest. On a clear day, you can enjoy amazing views of Kilimanjaro’s Kibo and Mawenzi peaks.

• Accommodation: Snowcap Camp
• Road Surface: Tarmac & dirt road
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today you will enjoy a downward hill ride towards the beautiful Lake Chala, a crater lake lying right on the border between Kenya and Tanzania. One of Tanzania’s hidden gems, Lake Chala is fed entirely by underground springs from Mt Kilimanjaro, with turquoise blue and green waters surrounded by diverse plants, trees, and wildlife. The camp where you will be spending the night is situated on the edge of this mystical caldera lake, against a dramatic volcanic backdrop providing the perfect place to unwind and absorb the serenity and tranquility of the area.

• Accommodation: Lake Chala Safari Camp
• Road Surface: Tarmac & dirt road
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s ride will be short but challenging as you ride up to Marangu village in the foothills of Kilimanjaro. As you cycle through Marangu village you will pass banana and coffee plantations along the way as well as the friendly Chagga people who will be waving and shouting “Jambo!” as you cycle by. Before getting to your camp you will take a detour to the iconic Ndoro waterfalls where you can stretch your legs and walk down to the base of the waterfalls. While here, a local Chagga guide will give you a brief history of the area and ancient Chagga cave, the people, their traditions, and customs as well as the mystical legend about the waterfalls. After spending some time refreshing by the waterfalls you will finish the last downhill stretch of your ride towards the camp/hotel where you will be spending the night.

• Accommodation: Camping at Mountain Kilimanjaro Resort
• Road Surface: Tarmac & dirt road
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

You will be wrapping up your last day of cycling by traversing the villages and plantations on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The first half of the ride will be comprised of several steep ascents and descents followed by a second half which is a gradual downhill ride towards the bustling and vibrant Moshi town. You will cycle through the suburbs and outskirts of Moshi on the back roads as you head towards the Park View Hotel which marks the end of your incredible 6-day journey around Mt. Kilimanjaro, on two wheels. You will seal off the evening with a nice celebratory sparkling champagne to toast your achievement.

• Accommodation: Park View Hotel
• Road Surface: Tarmac & dirt road
• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Group Price

• The price per person for group expeditions is fixed based on a group size. However, we have optional arrangements for individual private and tailor-made preferences best suited for you, your family, and your friends.
• All prices are based on shared accommodation. Please inquire for a 1 guest private room accommodation quote
• Prices listed are not final. Please inquire for your final price quote.

Cycling Around Mount Kilimanjaro FAQs

How will the bikes be transported?

The bikes will be transported via 4WD vehicles with our professional drivers who handle the bikes with utmost care

How in Shape do I have to be?

You don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy our bike tours. Although you can ride as much or as little as you like, to ensure the enjoyment of your trip to its fullest, it is important to assess your level of fitness when deciding.

Can I bring my bike?

You are more than welcome to bring your bike, however, we’re more than happy to provide a bike if you can’t travel with your trusty two-wheeled steed. If you are bringing your bike, most airlines have straightforward and affordable bike carriage policies and our staff can offer plenty of advice on the various methods of packing and traveling. We’ll even help you assemble it on arrival and pack it away safe and sound when you return!

What if I get lost or left behind?

On Bike hire, comprehensive route notes with accompanying maps are provided as standard to guide you along the way and keep you on the right track. We are also just a phone call away should you need us. On guided and supported holidays there will always be a spread of ability, however, our guides and support staff are an experienced bunch so no need to worry. Whatever your level, you’ll be well looked after

So, what happens if I do get a puncture?

Don’t be deflated if this happens to you along the way! We promise it’s not as tricky and technical as it may seem and we can give you a crash course, if you need it, before you set off. Anyone who hires a bike from us will be kitted out with the basics needed to keep you in good order (multiple tools, spare tubes, puncture repair kits tire levers, etc…). With a great team on hand should you get into any major bother and need a helping hand to get you on the move again.

What if I’m traveling solo?

Not to worry, our bike tours are solo-friendly! With two experienced guides to explore with you, along with friendly guests from all walks of life, you’ll have built-in friends to explore with every step of the way. Plus, 40% of our guests are solo travelers, so chances are, you won’t be the only one

Do I have to wear a helmet?

Yes. They might not be required by law in all areas, but it’s a smart idea to protect your head in case of a fall or accident. We recommend that, for safety and hygiene purposes.

Are my children eligible for discounts?

Yes! We’re passionate about inspiring a new generation of cyclists and want to give our little riders the best deals possible. Discounts for children vary from holiday to holiday and are based on the size and rooming arrangements of your holiday.

I’m thinking about a group trip but I’m worried it will be all pro riders.

Our tours are just that, tours, and so you’re always free to go at your own pace, as long as the group sticks close enough together from a safety perspective. Whilst all of our guests are a wide range of people with an equally diverse background, higher-grade trips do tend to attract more experienced riders and the pace is likely to be faster on these tours

What are the bikes like?

We are using Full suspension and Hard-tail mountain bikes. They’re robust, fun to ride, and ideal for our bike tours. These bikes are 26″ & 29-wheeled bikes, and we have sizes to suit all persons between 4ft and 6.4 + ft.

Can I bring my pedals?

Not a problem at all. If you are used to riding with clip-in pedal systems (SPD / LOOK / TIME, ETC..) we recommend that you bring them and your shoes and we will put them on your bike at the beginning of the tour. If not, all bikes will be fitted with a standard flat pedal with mini plastic toe clips being available as well. We very strongly recommend that riders who plan to bring in clip-in pedals have prior experience riding this way before their tour. It is a different riding experience and you should be very used to clipping in and out of your pedals with ease.

What is included in the price of a tour?

We will give you the best experience and cycling we can and this means top-notch accommodation, Camping gear, food, bikes, a support van, guides, and a bike mechanic! We spend a lot of time preparing these tours to be as excellent as they can be. Check Trip Details for the trip you are interested in for exact full details or just ask us!

Do I have to carry my luggage while biking?

No, we each carry only one day pack on our tours. Your large travel bag is transported for you to the next night’s rest place.

Can you cycle up Kilimanjaro?

Yes! Bike Kilimanjaro is one of our bike tours, The Kilema route is the only route that you can take to reach the top of Mount Kilimanjaro by mountain bike