Things to do in Moshi

Things to do in Moshi for those that don’t know, Moshi is a medium-sized town located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. And while the famous mountain might be the main attraction in Moshi, this vibrant town is also the gateway to SO many other beautiful places that will give you a taste of East Africa.

Read more below…

1. Spot the ‘Big Five’ on a wildlife safari

Seeing Africa’s “Big Five” in their natural environment is an experience not to be missed, and there’s no better place to do it than Tanzania. Listed as Africa’s top safari destination, Tanzania is the home to a number of national game parks with an abundance of diverse wildlife. From the natural wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater to the Serengeti’s vast iconic plains that go on for as far as the eye can see, each of Tanzania’s parks has their own character and uniqueness. Wildlife Safari

2. Climb to the “Roof of Africa

The main attraction in Tanzania, a climb to the “Roof of Africa” is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Rich in diverse fauna and flora, Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 metres making it the tallest mountain in Africa and the world’s highest freestanding mountain.

Climbs usually take from 5 to 10 days depending on your ability, budget and time. There are several routes to choose from, with each one taking you through different climate zones, from equatorial rainforests surrounded by banana and coffee plantations to near arctic conditions. If you don’t have the budget to make it to the top, then there’s also the option to explore the base of the mountain with a day hike through Montane Forest. Mountain Trek

3. Find your inner zen at Lake Chala

Lake Chala is the perfect place to get some downtime from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located just 1.5 hours away from Moshi on the border of Tanzania and Kenya, this tranquil location is one mighty fine example of how much natural beauty this country has to offer.

Lake Chala is believed to be the caldera of a volcanic eruption which happened over three million years ago. Now all that remains is a beautiful blue lake surrounded by lush green forest, where you can see an abundance of different monkeys and birdlife.

The Maasai are probably one of East Africa’s most emblematic tribes and are easy to spot around Moshi with their distinctive look. You don’t have to walk very far to be greeted by a friendly, tall male Maasai wrapped head to toe in a boldly coloured shúka.

But if you would like to learn more about these indigenous people, spending some time with them in their own communities is a great way to do it. It’s important to do your research though if you would like an authentic experience, as there are a number of trips out there that are tourist traps. Masai day trip

4. Take a dip in the Kikuletwa Hot Springs (CHEMKA)

Located approximately 1.5 hours away from Moshi, Kikuletwa Hot Springs is one of Tanzania’s many hidden gems. A beautiful natural pool hiding away among twisting fig trees in the middle of a dusty landscape, this little oasis is a great place for relaxing. The crystal clear waters are a lovely warm temperature and you can even enjoy a free fish pedicure with all the tiny fish that nibble away at your feet.

5. Cycling Tours Tanzania

Take a bike tour a popular day trip around Moshi offer chance to explore with two wheels. Mountain bike tour into popular destination, you can bike around town, go to hot springs, cycling west Kilimanjaro, Rau Forest, Cycling Kilimanjaro kilema route, Materuni waterfalls- there are lots to choose from.

6. Sample the local foods 

Although Moshi might be considered a small town, you’d be surprised by the variety of restaurants to choose from. From Indian and Italian cuisine to Asian and European foods, there is a world of food to be found in the town centre. But perhaps one of the best ways of experiencing local life is to sample Swahili dishes. If you’re not sure where to start when looking at a menu, take a look at these 10 mouth-watering Tanzanian foods you shouldn’t miss. 

7. Materuni waterfalls and coffee farm tour

A stone’s throw away from Moshi town centre lies the Materuni Waterfalls. A day tour will begin with a short hike to the waterfall where you can make a splash in the mountain water of Kilimanjaro and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Along the way, you’ll also get to experience the local life of the Chagga people and on the way back you’ll stop by a traditional ‘shamba’ (farm) to see how coffee is produced – from picking the bean to roasting and then drinking a tasty cup yourself!

8. Hike Mt Meru

If Mount Kilimanjaro is a little out of your budget, Mount Meru is a great alternative for a more affordable trekking challenge. Standing at 4,566 meters it is the second highest mountain in Tanzania and some climbers even consider it more a beautiful hike than Kilimanjaro. Located in Arusha Park, with the Momella Lakes close to its foot, Mt Meru boasts diverse flora and fauna, and you may even be lucky enough to see some zebras and buffalo on your way up.

9. Marangu village tour and caves

Experience life on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro and visit Marangu Village. Highlights include meeting friendly coffee farmers, visiting the waterfalls and a local Chagga museum, eating local dishes and drinking home-brewed banana beer. There is also the opportunity to visit the colorful local markets and see the historic caves that were used as hiding points from enemies during clan wars.

10. Explore the local markets

If you want to go bargain-hunting or simply want to see the authentic side of local Tanzanian shopping, exploring the bustling local markets is a great activity to do. These markets mainly sell fresh fruits and vegetables, second-hand clothes and other essential household goods. You can also shop for kangas, the colourful materials you’ll see the local women tie around their waists. Memorial Market in Soweto is a short dala dala ride from the town centre and the best place to just wander around and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

11. Hop on a plane to paradise 

Picture a beautiful island surrounded by crystal clear waters and blindingly white sands, where every sunset is more breathtaking than the last. You know, the ones you see advertised in almost every honeymoon magazine? Well, that’s exactly what you get when you go to Zanzibar – a postcard-perfect island just humbly lying off the coast of East Africa. If you want to escape Moshi for a week or two, then Zanzibar is the place to go and it’s relatively easy to get to from Kilimanjaro Airport JRO.

12. Relax by the pool with a beer

For those hot days where all you want to do is take a dip in the swimming pool, there are a number of hotels and lodges located near the town where you can do just that! Our personal favorites have to be Mountain Inn, Honey Badger Lodge, Panama garden resorts, and Weru Weru Lodge but there are many others to choose from.