Top Things to Do When Visiting Moshi, Tanzania
Moshi, nestled at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, is the gateway to many incredible adventures. While it is best known as the starting point for Kilimanjaro treks, Moshi offers a range of other exciting activities that showcase the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and local flavor. Whether you’re preparing for your climb or just exploring, here are the top things to do when visiting Moshi.
Moshi serves as the perfect starting point for your Kilimanjaro adventure, but it offers so much more than just a gateway to the mountain. Your Tanzanian experience isn’t limited to climbing Kilimanjaro or seeking out the Big Five in the Serengeti—it’s also about immersing yourself in the local culture, and spending a few days in Moshi will give you a true taste of life in a Tanzanian town.
With plenty of activities to choose from in Tanzania, you’ll want to make the most of your limited time. We recommend spending one day exploring the town and another day on one of the unique tours available.
Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
No trip to Moshi is complete without experiencing the allure of the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro. As the highest free-standing mountain in the world, climbing Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list adventure. There are several routes to choose from, such as the Machame, Lemosho, and Marangu, each offering unique landscapes and challenges. Even if you’re not up for the full climb, you can still enjoy a day hike on the lower slopes.
Visit the Materuni Waterfalls
Just a short drive from Moshi, the Materuni Waterfalls are a hidden gem that provides a peaceful escape into nature. The hike to the falls takes you through lush forests, banana plantations, and small local villages. Once there, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of a 70-meter-high waterfall and a chance to cool off in the refreshing pool below.
Coffee Tour at Materuni Village
While visiting Materuni, take the opportunity to join a local coffee tour. The Chagga people, who live in the surrounding areas of Kilimanjaro, are famous for their coffee-growing traditions. On this tour, you’ll learn about the entire coffee-making process, from bean to cup. You can even participate in roasting and grinding your own coffee, followed by a tasting session.
Explore the Moshi Market
For a taste of local life, visit the bustling Moshi Central Market. The market is vibrant and full of energy, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and clothing. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, try local street food, or just soak up the lively atmosphere.
Hot Springs (Kikuletwa/Chemka Hot Springs)
Located about an hour from Moshi, the Kikuletwa Hot Springs (also known as Chemka Hot Springs) are a must-visit for those looking to relax. The crystal-clear, warm water of these natural springs is surrounded by fig trees and offers a perfect spot to swim, unwind, and enjoy a picnic. The stunning scenery and the warm waters make it a popular day trip from Moshi.
Visit Lake Chala
Lake Chala is a stunning crater lake located on the border between Tanzania and Kenya, about a two-hour drive from Moshi. The turquoise-blue waters are surrounded by steep crater walls, creating a dramatic landscape. You can hike around the lake, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or even rent a canoe for a paddle on the serene waters.
Cultural Tour with the Chagga People
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the Chagga people by taking a cultural tour in one of the nearby villages. You’ll learn about their traditional ways of life, including farming techniques, ancient irrigation systems, and local customs. Many tours also include a visit to the Chagga caves, which were used as hiding places during tribal conflicts.
Coffee and Bananas
Moshi is known for its coffee, and the local brew is mild yet flavorful. The town is surrounded by small coffee plantations that spill across the foothills of Kilimanjaro. Hop on a local daladala and head to the village of Materuni, 15 km north of Moshi, nestled in the mountain’s foothills. There, you can take a guided trek through coffee and banana plantations and learn the art of coffee-making from start to finish. You’ll even get the chance to roast your own beans! Materuni is a charming village with stunning views—on a clear day, you can see all the way back to Moshi and beyond to the Kilimanjaro region. Don’t forget to try the local banana beer or wine for a truly authentic experience!
Volunteer with Local Organizations
Moshi is home to many NGOs and community-based projects that welcome volunteers. Whether you’re interested in education, healthcare, or environmental conservation, there are plenty of opportunities to give back while gaining a deeper understanding of the local community. Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect with the people of Moshi and make a positive impact during your visit.
Go Biking Around Moshi
For a fun and active way to explore the town and its surroundings, consider renting a bike or joining a guided cycling tour. You can ride through local villages, coffee plantations, and scenic countryside paths, getting up close to the beauty of the region. Biking tours often include cultural stops and give you a different perspective of Moshi’s landscapes.
Discover Marangu Village
Known as the gateway to Kilimanjaro’s Marangu Route, Marangu Village is a charming place to explore. You can visit the Marangu Gate, the starting point for many Kilimanjaro treks, and learn about the area’s history. The village is also famous for its waterfalls, ancient Chagga caves, and traditional Chagga homes.
Sample Local Cuisine
Don’t leave Moshi without trying some traditional Tanzanian food. Local restaurants and street vendors serve up delicious dishes like ugali (a maize-based staple), nyama choma (grilled meat), chapati, and various rice dishes. For an authentic experience, visit a local eatery and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Tanzanian cuisine.
Conclusion
Moshi is more than just a gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro—it’s a vibrant destination with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re an adventurer looking to scale Kilimanjaro or a traveler seeking to explore the hidden gems of northern Tanzania, Moshi has something to offer everyone. Make the most of your visit by trying some of these incredible activities and discovering the true heart of Moshi.
