Thinking of going for a cycling ride in Tanzania but don’t know exactly how or where to start? I have had a lot of my friends asking this same question over and over again whenever they visit Tanzania.
So, for this article, I have put together a simple 6 tips quick guide to help equip you with the most useful and important information so that you will be able to have a fun-filled cycling trip while enjoying some of the most sensational sceneries in Tanzania.
Here are the 6 point guide you should know for a better and safer cycling experience in Tanzania!
| 1 | Nature of the Roads | Sealed and unsealed roads |
| 2 | Best Routes to Take | – North Korogwe to Babati via Moshi – Arusha Mombo to the Usambara Mountains – Korogwe to the East and North Tanga – Arusha to Lake VictoriaIringa to Lake Nyasa via Mbeya |
| 3 | Best Places to Go Cycling | Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Zanzibar |
| 4 | Best Time to Go | January to February and June to August (dry seasons) |
| 5 | Means of Communication and Currency | Have some basic Kiswahili words and sentences. Ex. Mambo! Hello! Have some cash in Tanzanian shilling |
| 6 | Things to Take for Cycling in Tanzania | Camping tent, Bike helmets, pair of sunglasses, saddle and pedals, camera, compass, something to share with school kids is appreciated |
To learn more about the above-mentioned tips, read on! But first, let’s take a look some of the most important reasons why you would want to cycle in Tanzania.
Why You Would Want To Consider Cycling in Tanzania
Cycling rides offers a lot of benefits including health and psychological benefits but exploring real Africa is a major benefit that this trip will offer most.
You’ll have the chance to mingle with the real African people and get connected to where no cars go. You will have a lasting memory of children running from far fields to come to cheer and offer you lots of high 5s.
Getting off the ride to offer salutations and greetings to school kids and joining them for some sports and games in the villages is an unforgettable experience that only cyclists will experience in Tanzania.
When you get tired and the sun becomes extreme for you, you will be able to take breaks at designated centers and learn some of the interesting history and Tanzanian cultures.
For example you will be able to explore the history and culture of different areas including Stone Town and Maasai. Sometimes getting off the bike and tasting some of the delicious local dishes will leave a lasting memory on your taste buds.
You will enjoy ‘nyama choma’ and ‘chips mayai na kachumbari’ or ‘biliani’ to refuel for your ride to be more enjoyable.
As you continue your cycling expedition, you will also have the chance to view some awesome sceneries.
Not only will you be thrilled be some wonderful sceneries but also you’re bound to see some African mammals.
And this is why you would want to really go on a cycling ride in Tanzania as the routes are designed to allow cyclists to enjoy game viewing especially around the Ngorongoro crater, Serengeti, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Lake Manyara, and Lake Natron National Parks.
You will be amazed by the view of the rare and shy black rhino and the African elephant when descending the walls of Ngorongoro crater. This will certainly leave a lifetime memory.
If you happen to go by the Serengeti, you would want to keep an eye on the legendary Big 5, and possible if the time is right, track the great migration as migratory animal endeavor to escape from the hungry mouths of savannah crocodiles while crossing Grumeti River.
This is such a spectacular stunt and in many books, one of the wonders of the world.
When you go on a cycling trip around Tanzania, you will be able to buy some of Africa’s handicrafts and other beautiful cultural products including some craft souvenirs among others on the way.
Little heads up, you’ll be attracted to lots of amazing stuff on the way so you would want to stick to your budget. However, two important souvenirs you must take home with you are the ‘shangas’ (beaded necklaces) and a “kanga”.
Why? because your trip to Tanzania wouldn’t be complete if you don’t have clothing souvenirs to show for it.
Another common phenomenon you will certainly catch a glimpse of are different African dance, acrobatics, and music including the very famous Sauti za Busara in Zanzibar.
If you’re a fan of beer, you will also be treated to some of the best beers at the various cycling rest points.
So, you’re your time cycling around Tanzania will be fun-filled as you explore the best of Africa in Tanzania.
1. Best Time To Go Cycling In Tanzania
It is ok to go for cycling ride all-year-round but the best recommended time is between January to February and June to August (dry seasons).
During this period the temperature is convenient especially in the northern tourist circuit when you can have a comfortable ride.
The weather is clear and mostly are days of the full moon when you can ride also during the night if necessary.
Game driving is totally clear during the dry season as you’ll enjoy game viewing because the vegetation is thinner when you can easily spot the rarely spotted black rhino in the Ngorongoro crater.
However, the tour operators and lodges will charge higher prices because it is a peak season.
Cycling in Zanzibar is possible all-year-round but the best time is from June after the major rain has ceased to August (the dry season), however, expect the peak season rates.
During this season, the weather is nice with maximum sunshine. Whale viewing and snorkeling is perfect as the season has a productive water clarity of 25 or plus meters.
Checking before booking is necessary during the festival season which mostly occurs between June and July because some properties will have a minimum night stay or peak season rates and some close.
Also, January to February is the best time to enjoy cycling ride in Zanzibar as the weather becomes hot and dry and the beaches are far less busy.
So, if you’re to take a cycling trip to Tanzania, consider going during dry seasons!
2. Must-Have Gear For Cycling In Tanzania
Proper preparation and determination are the keys to a successful and safer cycling trip in Tanzania.
Mostly, tour operators provide bike and repair services to make sure the cycling rides are in tip-top condition in Tanzania.
Here we share a list of the most important things to pack for your Tanzania cycling safari:
- helmet
- saddle and pedals (and a gel cover for your saddle for extra comfort but not necessary)
- sunglasses
- a warm clothing
- a compass
- camera and batteries or charger
- binoculars
- insect repellant
- a backpack
- a long sleeve dress shirt and trousers
- guide books
- phone with its accessories
One important tip I always share with my fellow travelers is to always come with their own first aid.
Most tour operators will have first aid kits for cyclists. Most of their escort vehicles are also equipped with first aid kits. But it wouldn’t hurt to just bring a couple of extra first aid items.
3. Best Places To Go Cycling In Tanzania
There are a lot of places to go for cycling ride in Tanzania but here are my favorite spots because of the kind diversity and fantastic sceneries they offer!
Kilimanjaro
Going to Mount Kilimanjaro for a cycling ride is my favorite thing to do in Tanzania where I’d recommend any cyclist to go.
Riding at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro which is the world’s highest free-standing mountain and roof of Africa as well as one of the most desired summits on earth is a special life adventure of great fun which will take you out of your comfort zone.
Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera which is said to be taller than nearby Kilimanjaro before it collapsed is a must-go place in Tanzania.
You’ll be allowed to see the natural wonders on earth in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This trip will allow you to witness and learn the life of Maasai with their cattle, goat, and sheep living alongside wildebeest including the Big 5.
It was with this trip that I saw Ol Doinyo Lengai, the mountain of God. You’ll have to go off the bike to allow giraffes to cross the road ahead and jump into the pop-up escort vehicle to take clear pictures among others.
Serengeti National Park
Here you’ll enjoy game driving! Serengeti national park is a place not to miss when taking a cycling trip in Tanzania. This is Africa’s number 1 game destination in Tanzania and one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Serengeti is commonly popular for its great migration which is one of the most movement of animals on earth and one of Natural World’s Seven Wonders by USA Today.
It was such an adventurous experience to witness the lioness ready for prey in the morning for her breakfast.
My family and I camped and fall asleep to the mighty sounds of African nights only to wake up to see a lot of wildebeest dramas and enjoy the sunset and sunrise over the incredible landscape the next day.
It was such an adventure as the park allowed us to see all of ‘the big 5’. It gave me a true sense of “Serengeti shall never die”. You’ll enjoy the game driving in Serengeti!
Zanzibar
Zanzibar offers different cycling adventures from beachcombing to narrow streets bursting with life.
The Island is commonly named with different names; Tanzania’s go-to beach destination, Spice islands, Archipelago, Tanzania’s Swahili city, Stone Town, and the UNESCO – listed world heritage site in Tanzania for good reasons.
In 2019 my friend and I took a cycling ride in Zanzibar. It was nice to get off the bikes for short time diving while others were snorkeling in the turquoise blue waters of the Indian ocean and others chilling on the beach soaking the sunrise and viewing dhows navigating the sea.
Then after we cycled around the Stone Town view tortoises and learn history and Afro – Arab – Asian culture and explore the fragrant markets.
4. Best Routes to Take
There are thousands of miles to be covered on each single-truck route that you can explore in Tanzania but here are my favorite routes.
Mombo to Usambara Mountains Route
The Mombo to Usambara Mountains route through Lushoto is one of our best routes for cycling ride in Tanzania.
From Mombo, you’ll have a great opportunity for a side trip into the Usambara Mountains. The Usambara Mountains are commonly named ‘the Switzerland of Tanzania’ for good reasons!
This trip will allow you to visit small villages, sisal plantations, tea estates, development projects, cheese industries, and amazing landscapes and weather.
It’s cold most the time so, be informed and prepared! The Korogwe to Babati route via Moshi and Arusha is amazing. The road is nice and passable as there are more service roads and town centers for you to buy some bottled water and fast foods to energize your ride.
The Korogwe to Arusha Route
From Korogwe to Arusha is about 350km but you’ll ride through 9 different centers. Also, this is the route where you’ll find a lot of development-based tourism programs in Tanzania.
Arusha is commonly named ‘The Tourist City’ in Tanzania because most tourism establishments are situated there and it is located in the Northern Tanzania Tourist Circuit.
The Arusha to Lake Victoria Route
The Arusha – Lake Victoria route is probably the most popular route in Tanzania. The route will take you through Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park.
To take this route, you will be charged 20 US$ to enter each park. You will first have to take a bus from Arusha to Mwanza (about 14-16 hours) because it’s prohibited to ride your bike through the National Parks in Tanzania.
However, you can easily ride on the east side as far west as Karatu, and on the west side, the park gate is not far off of the paved highway. There you’ll also find daily buses via Singida and they’re about 30% cheaper since there are no park entries. But, expect to spend about 24 hours!
The Iringa to Lake Nyasa Route
Iringa to Lake Nyasa via Mbeya is one of the best routes for cycling ride in Tanzania. The roads are nice and the scenery is hilly and dramatic.
As you leave Mbeya city, you’ll first climb for about 30km then you’ll descend about 60km downhill to Lake Nyasa as hard times are never forever.
It’s a bit cold at the top, so keep that suit handy a bit longer. But won’t find a lot of wildlife within this route. Similarly, the northern section between Babati and Kolo through Bereko as well as Hime to Taita; Arusha to Namanga are recommended cycling routes.
5. Nature of The Roads
I enjoy cycling in Tanzania because they take place in both smooth and rough roads to give adventurous experience.
You’ll enjoy experiencing the flat, hilly, uphill, and downhill routes as every kind of road offers different adventures. You’ll have the ride of your choice be short or long.
Most of the paths are nice and smooth for easy riding, however, there are also a lot of challenging routes for the adventurers like me.
All these paths will take you to both wildlife and cultural experience. You’ll also find paths that are under construction and others are narrow and jammed like riding in Dar es Salaam to Morogoro while other roads are sparsely populated (e.g. Chalinze to Korogwe).
However, with the help of guides, all your routes are well mapped out to give a higher success rate of completing your ride safely.
Tanzania is hilly in nature, so there are a few uphill sections but staying within your limits increases a chance to accomplish your target.
The best way to go is taking it easy until your body acclimatize as most of the routes in Tanzania are 1,500m above sea level.
Remember, it’s not a race and most cycling distances range from 25-100km per day for cyclists aged around 20-75 years old.
In case you need a break, there will be an escort vehicle ready for you but focusing on positive experience will help you to outweigh any challenge you may face.
Most of the routes pass in the villages for you to connect with the locals. I remember going through traditional Maasai village after we have cycled from Mto wa Mbu.
After the African sun had posed a challenge on us, we decided to time off the bikes for health break and camp at the Maasai village and grind our coffee, make some calls and keep a journal to make sure everyone was ok to continue heading to Lake Manyara National Park the following day.
That joy that came to us when we were dancing with Maasai warriors in their traditional clothes while others sat around with Maasai elders learning culture is a phenomenal experience.
We used that break to clean and do minor repairs on our bikes as well.
It is cool to accept a change of plan when you take a ride as part of the adventure in Tanzania.
Just have fun! It was interesting to see welcoming joy and surprise on the faces of Maasai children as we were cycling through their world.
Leaving Maasai village we took off-road to Lake Manyara.
It was a nice experience as my friend who was in front of us raised a hand to indicate to us to get off the ride because two gigantic giraffes were crossing the road ahead!
Cycling is a true adventure in Tanzania for all kinds of travelers including families.
6. Means of Communication and Currency
I’d recommend that enjoying the ride trip in Tanzania will require you have some basic Kiswahili words and sentences.
During your ride, you’ll be getting off to interact with the locals for some good reasons. So, having some Kiswahili words and sentences like ‘mambo?’ or ‘Habari yako’ (how are you?’), ‘poa!’ or ‘sijambo!’ (I’m fine!), and ‘Asante’ (thank you) will make your trip more fun.
The locals will be happy and more welcoming to hear you speaking some words in their language. They’ll become more excited and be more willing to share with their interests and teach you a lot about their life.
You’ll not find yourself a stranger in the way as you may be joined by the local cyclists in the way and get a clear sense of a participatory trip.
Also, having some cash of Tanzania shillings while you’re on way is recommendable as you may need to buy some bottled water or some fresh fruits and taste local cuisines while on your adventure.
Also, you may be tempted to buy some cultural products like Shanga when you take stops to explore the Maasai culture or buy Halwa in Zanzibar and kanga in Tanga.
Note that currency exchange services are offered at banks and currency exchange offices which are available mostly in the cities, towns, and hotels therefore you may not find financial services including ATMs in the villages.
However, it’s more recommendable to spend less on the way so that you keep good cash to spend after the ride.
Final Words
Ready to go? We’re excited to know that you’ll soon be pedaling to explore the real Africa in Tanzania. If you still need more about a cycling trip in Tanzania, you can reach out to us via our contact us page.
We’ll be happy to continue sharing our experience with you.