Moshi, Tanzania, is a beautiful and vibrant town located at the foot of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Known as the gateway to Tanzania’s highest peak, it attracts travelers from all over the world who come to explore its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. If you’re planning to visit Moshi, there are many exciting and unique things to do in and around the town. From scaling Mount Kilimanjaro to exploring lush forests, waterfalls, and vibrant markets, Moshi has something for everyone. In this article, we will highlight the ten best things to do in Moshi, Tanzania.
1. Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Undoubtedly, one of the most iconic things to do in Moshi is to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. The highest mountain in Africa, Kilimanjaro is the target of mountaineers, trekkers and adventurers around the globe. Some of the trekking routes available in the mountain include Machame, Marangu, Lemosho and Rongai, which give a different experience.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is both a rewarding and a challenging adventure. Although you do not need the qualification of a good mountaineer in order to reach the summit, good physical preparation is a must. The trek lasts five to nine days depending on the path taken. Here, you will traverse a range of ecosystems, such as tropical rainforests, alpine deserts, and glaciers. On the summit, Uhuru peak, one can never forget the thrill of being on the highest point of Africa, at 5,895 meters above sea level.
Moshi serves as a base for climbers, with numerous tour companies offering expert guides, equipment, and support. The colorful town is also where you will stay as your last stop before moving to the Kilimanjaro climb, and it will also be your resting point after you have finished the climb.
2. Visit Materuni Waterfalls
For those who are not keen on mountain climbing but still want to experience the beauty of the Tanzanian landscape, a visit to the Materuni Waterfalls is a must-do. Located about 15 kilometers from Moshi, Materuni is a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall is accessible on a 45-minute trail that is relatively easy to hike.
You will also be passing through traditional villages of the Chagga – people, their culture and history is explained by local guides. The actual waterfall is a beautiful sight with the water pouring down a length of over 70 meters. The area around the forest is rich with birds and other flora and makes it very quiet and peaceful. Visitors can also swim in the cool clear pool at the base of the falls making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
3. Explore the Chagga Culture at Kikuletwa Hot Springs
For an authentic cultural experience, a visit to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs is one of the best things to do in Moshi. Located about 45 kilometers from Moshi, Kikuletwa Hot Springs is a hidden gem surrounded by palm trees and the lush Tanzanian countryside. The springs are naturally warmed by underground volcanic action and provide a soothing experience to soak in crystal-clear waters. The hot springs are by a small village mostly inhabited by Chagga people, who have lived in the area over the last few centuries. In your visit, you would be allowed to learn about the Chagga culture, their way of life and their ability to cope with life in the shadow of Mt Kilimanjaro. As you soak in the warm waters, visitors are able to take a break and enjoy the calmness of the surrounding environment thus it is a good place to visitors who just need a quiet place to soak in nature.
4. Visit the Moshi Market
The Moshi Market, located in the heart of the town, is a bustling, colorful, and vibrant place that offers a taste of local life. The market is packed with vendors who are selling fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, textile, and souvenirs. Downtown is also an excellent shopping location to purchase distinctive items and great local craftsmanship and produce.
The market is also a great place to mingle with the local people who are ready to share their experiences and stories. Whether you’re looking for fresh fruit, handmade jewelry, or a traditional Tanzanian artifact, the Moshi Market offers a great variety of goods. Remember that you need to haggle with the vendors, and this is an experience that will probably result in great deals.
5. Take a Coffee Tour in the Chagga Coffee Plantations
Tanzania is famous for its coffee, and no visit to Moshi would be complete without experiencing the coffee-growing culture of the region. Coffee has traditionally been cultivated on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro by people known as Chagga, and they produce some of the best coffee beans in the globe.
An interesting idea is to take a coffee tour around the Chagga coffee plantations where one gets to experience the whole process behind coffee production of planting the beans, processing them, roasting and brewing. You will also see small local farms that use traditional methods of growing and picking the coffee beans. The tour is interactive, you will get chance to be involved in the coffee making process and have an experience of the fresh aromatic coffee.
Most tours include a visit into local villages too where you can get to know about the culture, history and everyday lives of the Chagga people. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy Tanzania’s famous coffee while gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s agricultural heritage.
6. Trek to Lake Chala
Lake Chala is a stunning crater lake located on the border between Tanzania and Kenya, about 45 kilometers from Moshi. The lake is located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro and is a spectacular view of its scenic environment. The lake contains a beautiful turquoise blue water and a mixture of dense forest and savannah surrounding, which makes it a favorite place of visit by those who love nature and take photos. Visitors can trek to the lake via beautiful trails and the numerous viewpoints offer spectacular views of the lake and its environs. The hike is fairly simple and can be walked within a couple of hours, so it is accessible to most visitors. At the lake, you can swim, kayak, and even have a picnic. The region also hosts numerous monkeys, birds, and plant species among other wildlife.
7. Go on a Safari to Tarangire National Park
While Moshi itself is a wonderful destination, it’s also perfectly located for those who want to experience Tanzania’s famous safari parks. One of the best safaris near Moshi is a visit to Tarangire National Park, located about two hours from the town.
Tarangire is also characterized with large herds of elephants which may be frequently encountered wandering the vast plains of the park. A host of other creatures is also present in the park, including lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras among a myriad of birds. Its baobab trees are renowned and form an interesting contrast to the grassy plain.
Safari tours to Tarangire can be arranged from Moshi, and you can enjoy a full-day game drive with a knowledgeable guide. It is a memorable trip to all nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
8. Visit the Marangu Waterfalls
The Marangu Waterfalls are another natural attraction that should be on your list of things to do in Moshi. These waterfalls are very popular, located near the village of Marangu. One can get easy access to the falls by a simple walk through the forest and the trail is really picturesque with its view of the surrounding countryside.
The Marangu Waterfalls are located against the backdrop of the famous mount Kilimanjaro refreshments and the roar of the water falling down the precipice provides a relaxing aura. The surrounding area is a golf and it is ideal to stay with a picnic because tourists can enjoy a refreshing clean swimming at the bottom parts of the falls. The surrounding forest is home to a variety of bird species, and the hike to the falls offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tanzanian landscape.
9. Explore the Materuni Village and Chagga Caves
The Materuni Village is a real traditional Chagga village found close to the Materuni Waterfalls, where people get to have an authentic cultural experience. The village is famous as the place where the people are friendly and are willing to share their traditions and way of life with visitors.
Exploring the Chagga Caves is one of the highlights of a visit to Materuni. The Chagga people used these caves as a hideout as they struggled against other tribes. They are found at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and give a sense of history as well as the durability of the Chagga people. A guide will show you through the caves and inform you about the history of their use making it an educational and fascinating experience.
As well as touring the caves, you can take in a cultural cooking experience, see how the Chagga farm their crops, or share a meal with the locals.
10. Relax at a Local Lodge or Resort
After a day of exploring the natural beauty and cultural wonders of Moshi, take some time to relax at one of the town’s many lodges or resorts. Moshi offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts with breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Many lodges and resorts offer amenities such as swimming pools, spa treatments, and delicious Tanzanian cuisine. Guest accommodation also features personal gardens or terraces where people can enjoy a calm evening with a view of their landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a simple and comfortable place to stay or a luxurious retreat, Moshi has something to suit every traveler’s needs.
Conclusion
Moshi, Tanzania, is an incredible destination that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all types. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to exploring waterfalls, hot springs, and coffee plantations, there are endless things to do in Moshi. The amazing surroundings of the town and nearby natural attractions are the ideal location to rest and have fun. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure or a peaceful retreat into nature, Moshi has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, head to Moshi, and embark on a journey you’ll never forget!
