Moshi, Tanzania

10 Best Things to Do in and Around Moshi, Tanzania

Moshi is a delightful town located at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is widely known as the corridor for climbers taking on the tallest peak in Africa. However, you can also check out other things in Moshi. Moshi provides a wide range of activities for all types of travellers, from coffee tours to waterfalls and wildlife safaris. In this guide, we will discuss the 10 best things to do in and around Moshi Tanzania.

Hike to Materuni Waterfalls

Why Go?

Materuni Waterfalls is a splendid waterfall hidden in lush forests just a few miles from Moshi. The hike to the waterfall is quite easy and passes through beautiful landscapes, banana farms, and coffee plantations.

What to Expect:

  • A scenic 1.5-hour hike through the Chagga villages
  • A swim under the cool waters of the falls 
  • Guided tours which usually consist of a coffee experience with local farmers

Go on a Coffee Tour in a Chagga Village

Why Go?

Moshi is located in the coffee-growing region of Tanzania, which makes it a great place to get knowledge about coffee cultivation and its processing.

What to Expect:

  • Go visit the local Chagga farm and see the process of coffee making, from bean to cup
  • Enjoy a traditional coffee brewing session.
  • Taste some of the freshest coffee while getting a better understanding of the Chagga culture 

Explore Kilimanjaro National Park (Without Climbing the Summit)

Why Go?

If you dont want to climb mount kilimanjaro you can still check out its lower slopes 

What to expect and what to do in Kilimanjaro: 

  • A day hike to Mandara Hut which is usually 3 to 4 hours , where you can enjoy the splendid views 
  • Wander through the Rainforests which are full of colobus monkeys and unique flora

Visit the Kikuletwa (Chemka) Hot Springs

Why Go?

This hidden spring which is situated about 1.5 hours from Moshi, is known for its crystal-clear water.

What to Expect:

  • A natural warm water pool, which is perfect for swimming 
  • Gives you a pleasant environment with rope songs and picnic spots 
  • A secluded  adventure with limited footfall 

Take a Safari to Arusha or Tarangire National Park

Why Go?

Moshi Tanzania can be a good starting point for a short safari to some of the most amazing national parks of Tanzania.

What to Expect:

  • Arusha National Park: This is a great place for a day safari with giraffes, zebras, and flamingos, and even provides you with hiking options.
  • Tarangire National Park: The park is famous for its large groups of elephants and ancient baobab trees.

Walk Through the Rau Forest Reserve

Why Go?

This place is perfect for nature and birdwatching lovers. this protected forest reserve is located near Moshi Tanzania Africa.

What to Expect:

  • A peaceful guided nature walk.
  • A chance to see colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and many different species of birds 
  • Get an understanding of the ecosystem of the forest and various conversation efforts in place 

Visit Lake Chala

Why Go?

This splendid crater lake situated on the Kenya -Tanzania border, is one of the most underrated places near the Moshi Tanzania.

What to Expect:

  • A hike down to the lake with trails providing scenic views 
  • Enjoy Kayaking and swimming in the clear blue waters.
  • Beautiful picnic spots with splendid views 

 Experience Local Life at the Moshi Central Market

Why Go?

To get a real Tanzania shopping experience, you can check out the Busy central market of Moshi.

What to Expect:

  • Fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade souvenirs.
  • A chance to connect with locals and experience the lively culture of the place 
  • You can try the traditional Chagga and Swahili foods.

Take a Bike Tour Around Moshi

Why Go?

Biking is an amazing way to check out the nearby area of Moshi Tanzania, including its villages,  plantations, and scenic viewpoints.

What to Expect:

  • Guided cycling tours of banan and coffee farms 
  • Check out the waterfall, and hot springs and connect with local communities 
  •  A mix of regular roads and rough tracks with splendid views of the mount Kilimanjaro.

Learn About Chagga History at the Chagga Caves and Cultural Centre

Why Go?

The Chagga caves are man-made tunnels which in the old times were used as defence against the Maasai invasion.

What to Expect:

  • A guided tour of the inside of the ancient underground caves 
  • Knowing about the traditions and history of the Chagga tribe 
  • You can also check out the nearby museum, displaying traditional tools, weapons, and artefacts.

Conclusion 

Moshi Tanzania is a vibrant town with plenty to do for all kinds of travel from nature lovers to culture lovers. There’s something for everyone here whether you are looking to tackle an adventurous hike to the Materuni Waterfalls or learn about the Chagga coffee culture of the villages. If you like to see and tour the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro away from the crack, the lower slopes and Mandara Hut hike is what you want. Located in Kikuletwa Hot Springs, these offer a relaxing escape, and national parks in Arusha and Tarangire, nearby, are no less exciting in terms of wildlife safaris.

Visits to the local culture, such as the Rau Forest Reserve, Lake Chala, and Moshi Tanzania Central Market, are available with Moshi Tanzania. For a slightly more active experience, bike tours around the area provide scenic views of the area and also allow some exploration of local nearby villages and plantations. Apart from that, the Chagga Caves & Cultural Centre offer you a fascinating peek into what was the region’s history.

You can’t go wrong with Moshi Tanzania, no matter what you enjoy, with its mix of unique natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting adventures.