PARE MOUNTAINS
Part of the Eastern Arc range in north-eastern Tanzania, the remote Pare Mountains are extremely rewarding to the avid trekker searching for hiking trails off the beaten path. Home to the Pare tribe, agriculturalists and pastoralists who have largely retained their traditional way of life, a hike through the Pare Mountains takes visitors through local villages and beautiful forests, and offers the chance to see a little-visited part of the country.

Mbaga Hills is located deep within the Southern Pare Mountains about 150km south of Moshi. Rising from the surrounding plains, the winding roads take visitors high into the mountains where they can experience some of Africa's most spectacular scenery. With a back drop of quaint stone buildings and landscaped terraces, this area offers a view into a picturesque African village. Narrow footpaths wind through the mountains connecting the villages in the area. Whether you decide to hike through Shengena Forest, climb the peaks to view the vast Mkomazi Game Reserve or enjoy the rich history of Mghimbi Caves, there is a memorable experience for you at Mbaga Hills.

In addition to being able to escape on beautiful walks, you can learn about the Pare Culture. Reminders of the Colonialist Period can be seen in some of the villages and traditional history can be seen in such places as the Goma Caves where the villagers keep the skulls of 40 chiefs killed in tribal and colonial wars. Local farmers can tell you traditional stories of the mountains and about ceremonies that still take place in the forests. Walking through the villages you will get to see first hand how people are living: you pass local markets, local potters and brick makers, farms, schools and clinics, and even local breweries. In the Pare mountains you will be led by local guides and contributions are made to local village councils to encourage such activities as: local energy-saving stoves, tree nurseries, school supplies, etc. Hikes in the South Pare Mountains can be as short as 3 days or as long as 7 days with accommodation in tents and local guest houses.