Adventure Sports

Tanzania’s Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) offers adventure seekers thrilling opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly in the Meru Eco-Tourism area and West Kilimanjaro. Both regions, located on the northern slopes of Mount Meru and the western flank of Mount Kilimanjaro, offer incredible landscapes and a wide variety of adventure sports for visitors looking to explore Tanzania’s natural beauty while staying off the beaten path.

These two regions managed by TFS offer not only scenic views and biodiversity but also a range of adventure sports that allow visitors to engage with nature in a more active way, all while ensuring that ecotourism and sustainable practices are at the core of their experiences. 

Mountain Biking Adventures

Both Meru Eco-Tourism and West Kilimanjaro are prime locations for mountain biking, offering varied terrain, stunning scenery, and plenty of adrenaline.

Meru Eco-Tourism Mountain Biking:

In the Meru Forest Reserve, mountain biking allows visitors to explore the varied landscapes at a faster pace. Cyclists can enjoy an exciting ride through dense forest trails, rocky terrains, and winding paths that provide a mix of challenges for both beginners and experienced bikers.

The routes here offer cyclists the chance to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Meru and the surrounding valleys. The forested trails are also rich in biodiversity, offering the occasional sighting of local wildlife (without venturing into the wildlife-heavy national parks).

West Kilimanjaro Mountain Biking:

The region surrounding West Kilimanjaro is perfect for off-road mountain biking, with trails that weave through savannah grasslands, dense forests, and volcanic ridges. Riders can cycle along paths that offer sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as distant vistas of the Great Rift Valley and surrounding plains.

There are routes suitable for all levels of cyclists, from beginner-friendly paths that pass through scenic landscapes to more rugged trails designed for advanced bikers seeking a challenge. These routes are especially great for combining physical activity with an immersive nature experience.

Horseback Riding and Nature Safaris

For a slower-paced adventure sport, horseback riding offers a fantastic way to explore the terrain of both Meru Eco-Tourism and West Kilimanjaro. Riding through the forest reserves and open plains allows visitors to interact with the landscape in an intimate way while experiencing the natural beauty at a more relaxed pace.

• Horseback Safaris in Meru: In Meru Eco-Tourism, visitors can experience horseback safaris, riding through lush forests, grasslands, and rolling hills with panoramic views of the region. Guides take riders on scenic trails, allowing them to enjoy the serenity of the area while on horseback.
• West Kilimanjaro Riding Trails: In West Kilimanjaro, horseback riding offers a unique opportunity to traverse the savannah plains and ascend gentle hills, all with magnificent views of Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance. This adventure is a more leisurely way to engage with the landscape while enjoying the local culture and nature.

Camping and Wilderness Survival Experiences

For those who prefer to combine adventure sports with an immersive wilderness experience, camping in both the Meru Eco-Tourism and West Kilimanjaro regions offers the perfect setting for nature exploration. These regions offer wilderness camping in eco-friendly sites, where adventurers can experience the thrill of being in the wild, surrounded by natural beauty.

• Camping in Meru Eco-Tourism: Adventurers can set up camp in designated spots near Mount Meru and enjoy a quiet night under the stars, surrounded by forests. These campsites are perfect for trekking enthusiasts who want to combine their hiking adventures with an overnight stay in the wilderness.
• Camping in West Kilimanjaro: In West Kilimanjaro, camping can be paired with various outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife observation. These remote campsites offer a chance to fully immerse oneself in the natural surroundings of the region, with panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Rift Valley.