Moshi Town : Visit Moshi and Rent 4×4 Car for self Drive Tour
Moshi boasts numerous tourist attractions due to its location at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, near the Kenyan border. Moshi is distinguished by its exceptional landscapes and breathtaking vistas of the mountain from all angles. Moshi is situated at an elevation of around 890 metres, resulting in cool weather for the majority of the year. The volcanic soils on the mountain slopes are highly productive, facilitating the flourishing of coffee and bananas. Moshi is one of Tanzania’s two principal coffee-producing towns, evident from the aromatic air emanating from the primary coffee processing facility.
Moshi, Tanzania is inhabited by three primary tribal groups: the Chagga, Pare, and Maasai. The Chagga are the predominant ethnic group in the town and its adjacent villages. They are known for their diligence, entrepreneurial insight, and amiable disposition. The Masai homesteads are located further north, distant from the town. The majority of the Masai in Moshi town are engaged as security personnel or participate in the sale of their traditional handicrafts and medicinal products. The predominant language in the town is Swahili; nonetheless, the majority of individuals on the street converse well in English.
Moshi, a town known for coffee and sugar production, significantly relies on tourism for its economic vitality. The majority of tourists visiting Moshi do so en route to and from ascending Mount Kilimanjaro. Visitors frequent the town while on a safari in the adjacent national parks of Serengeti, Arusha, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater. Regrettably, the majority of tourists allocate merely one or two nights to the town and hardly invest time in exploring it.
Moshi presents numerous attractions for visitors, as will be elucidated in the subsequent chapters. Moshi has an array of attractions for travellers, including stunning landscapes, waterfalls, hot springs, dining establishments, nightclubs, museums, artisan boutiques, and remarkable wildlife. You may peruse a pertinent article regarding activities in Arusha or tourist sites in Dar es Salaam. We possess an article regarding the activities in Zanzibar.
Tourist Attractions in Moshi, Tanzania
Explore all areas of Moshi, Tanzania: A prime method to uncover the town of Moshi is by navigating its centre and surrounding suburbs. This can be accomplished by strolling, utilising a daladala, or riding a bicycle or motorcycle. The commencement point will vary based on your location; nonetheless, it is advisable to initiate your journey at the town centre prior to proceeding to the suburbs. Commence by exploring the local stores, dining establishments, and interior thoroughfares of the town. Upon concluding your exploration of the town centre, you may advance to the residential districts beyond the town centre and ultimately to the town’s slums. For optimal vistas of the town, we strongly advise utilising the sitting area on the top floor of Selig Hotel. One might devote an entire day observing locals as they engage in their daily activities while appreciating the stunning vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Study Swahili:
Swahili is straightforward to acquire since each word is phonetically spelt. While survival is possible with proficiency in English alone, Tanzanians tend to favour individuals who possess some understanding of Swahili. The initial term to comprehend is Jambo, signifying “greetings.”
Explore the Soweto Memorial Market:
Prioritizing a visit to the principal market is essential while discovering a new town. What is the reason? This is the optimal location to experience the lifestyle of the local populace in Moshi. Only in a market can one encounter individuals from all social strata. The Soweto Memorial Market in Moshi is ideal for house shopping if you are in town for several weeks or months. This is the source of the freshest veggies, passion fruits, mangoes, avocados, and papayas. The centre market additionally offers various home goods, indigenous textiles, and pre-owned clothing. The market is bustling, and if you are attentive, you may overhear some local gossip. Anticipate negotiation and increased pricing for individuals resembling international tourists.
Explore the Nightclubs and Bars:
Although Moshi is a modest town, its residents have a penchant for revelry. From Friday evening to Sunday morning, the town vibrantly awakens as nearly every adult engages in revelry. If you enjoy nocturnal festivities or seek a vibrant venue to socialise and connect with new individuals, we suggest Redstone, Pamoja Bar, the Police Mess, Malindi Club, Siesta Inn, Kool Bar, East Africa Bar, Black Diamond, Pub Alberto, Glaciers, and Peter’s Club. Pamoja bar is a preferred gathering spot for volunteers, expatriates, and visitors. A resident DJ is performing the newest local and international music songs. Enjoy the evening engaging in billiards with fellow enthusiasts while staying updated on the newest sports news, or indulge in a bottle of local beer such as Safari, Kilimanjaro, or Tusker. Moshi’s equivalent to vodka is Konyagi. Malindi Club features premier international hits and hosts local performers for live performances every Friday evening. If you prefer quieter environments, consider visiting Kool Bar or Peter’s Club. These two rather tranquil venues are in proximity to one another and are ideal for convening with friends for conversation. For the finest cocktails, Chicken BBQ, and exceptional music, visit Glaciers.
Ascending Mount Kilimanjaro:
The initial sight that captivates upon nearing Moshi is the magnificent snow-covered summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This inactive volcano is the tallest mountain in Africa. It ascends to 5,895 metres above sea level, and its summit is occasionally termed the “Roof of Africa.” Mount Kilimanjaro attracts approximately 45,000 visitors annually, and attaining its summit is regarded as one of the most arduous endeavours globally. One need not be an experienced mountain hiker to reach the summit. What is required is mental readiness and a requisite degree of physical fitness. The duration of the mountain hike ranges from five to ten days, contingent upon your financial resources, skill level, and available time. Seven distinct trekking paths up to the summit: Umbwe, Shira, Rongai, Mweka, Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho. Each route provides a distinct experience regarding scenery (fauna, volcanic formations, forests, coffee, and banana plantations) and climate zones. The Machame route is considered the most challenging, however it offers the most stunning vistas. Whichever way you select, you will be rewarded with magnificent vistas of the adjacent cities, national parks, and Mount Meru. If you have limited time or a constrained budget, you may choose the one-day Mount Kilimanjaro walk to the Mandara hut.
Hiking mt Meru
Ascending Mount Meru serves as an excellent preparatory experience for individuals intending to summit Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the second tallest peak in Tanzania, standing at 4,566 metres, and is among the highest in Africa. Ascending Mount Meru is also appropriate for individuals who consider Kilimanjaro prohibitively costly. Numerous hikers consider the ascent of Mount Meru superior to that of Kilimanjaro due to the scenic vistas and the opportunity to encounter wildlife in Arusha National Park. Anticipate premier attractions in Moshi, Tanzania, include the renowned Momella Lakes, where one may appreciate remarkable biodiversity and observe wildlife.
The Kilimanjaro Marathon occurs annually in early March. Numerous individuals, irrespective of their fitness levels, enrol to participate in three racing categories (5, 21, and 42 kilometres). Should you travel in March, make certain you engage. You will relish the experience and find enjoyment in engaging with the local populace. The running paths traverse some of the finest areas of Moshi, Tanzania, encompassing both urban and rural landscapes.
Pare Mountains
The Pare Mountains are located in a tranquil area south of Moshi. The mountains are largely uncharted as the majority of trekkers favour the challenges presented by Kilimanjaro and Meru. Nonetheless, if you have a passion for unique experiences and environment, you will find the Pare Mountains remarkable. They are encircled by picturesque forests and exceptional hiking paths that will captivate any intrepid visitor. Additionally, one may explore the adjacent Lake Jipe to engage in fishing with local fisherman or observe hippos and elephants, particularly during the morning hours.
Engage in golf at the Moshi Club:
Moshi town boasts one of the oldest and most picturesque golf courses in Tanzania. The 9-hole golf course is located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, approximately 4 km from the town centre of Moshi. The golf course encompasses around 90 acres and is affiliated with the Tanzania Golf Union, which oversees all golfing activities in the nation. The Moshi Club, established in 1920, oversees the golf course. Throughout the years, the Club has hosted and triumphed in numerous national golf competitions. The club comprises approximately 100 members, however not all are actively engaged. Many join the club for the status and opportunity it provides for establishing significant relationships. Anticipate the presence of international tourists, local entrepreneurs, and politicians.
Rent a motorcycle for a town tour:
If you prefer not to use boda bodas, taxis, or daladalas, you can hire a motorcycle for the duration of your visit to the town. Motorcycles and bicycles offer comfort and versatility. There is no need to be concerned about the traffic in Moshi.
Coffee and Banana Plantation Tours:
Moshi, as a coffee town, offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the cultivation and processing of the beverage. The majority of private coffee farms are located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and in settlements such as Materuni. To access the plantations, it is advisable to hire a personal vehicle or utilise a daladala for a journey of around 15 kilometres. The coffee tour is frequently conducted by a farmer. Anticipate acquiring knowledge on the comprehensive coffee cultivation process, including planting techniques, optimal seasons, roasting methods, and market strategies employed by growers. Touring the private coffee estates will provide you with direct insight into the challenges involved in producing the final products. If time is limited, you may opt to procure coffee locally at a reasonable cost. The Coffee Union, located in the city centre, is the preeminent Arabica coffee store in the area and has been operational since the 1930s. It is important to note that, in addition to coffee, bananas thrive exceptionally in Moshi. The majority of bananas are consumed as food or utilised in the production of local beer.
Engage in Volunteering:
A highly effective method to contribute to society is through volunteerism. Several organisations are prepared to receive volunteers. You may register to instruct at a school, operate in a clinic, or engage with adolescents and women in the community. If you are currently in town, the most effective method to secure a volunteer assignment is to contact local schools, churches, and clinics to enquire about their volunteer policies. Most will readily welcome overseas volunteers in Moshigladly. If you are not currently in the nation, you may seek a volunteering position through a volunteer organisation or your tour company. It is essential to invest time in understanding their business and to explore their website to ascertain their activities. Numerous charitable organisations in Africa possess commendable goals; nonetheless, they often suffer from inadequate funding or ineffective management. Disregard these flaws and concentrate on the overarching objective of making a significant influence and attaining a happy experience. Organisations to consider for volunteer opportunities include Global Volunteer Programmes Kilimanjaro, Light of Africa, Moyo Mmoja, Give a Heart to Africa, Hostel Foot Prince, Teatem, and World Unite. Each of them possesses a website, and you only need to conduct a Google search for each one.
Chemka/Kikuletwa Hot Spring:
Chemka is among the most exquisite natural hot springs in Tanzania. It is situated in the centre of a barren terrain (the Sanya plains) within the village of Rundugai. Activities in Moshi, Tanzania: The boiling water originates from subterranean sources and is sufficiently warm for swimming by the time it surfaces. Rundugai settlement is situated between Moshi town and Kilimanjaro Airport. One may have spectacular vistas of two of Africa’s highest peaks, Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. The waters possess a calming influence and are encircled by picturesque landscapes, baobab trees, and natural tunnels. In addition to swimming in the hot spring, one may partake in primate observation, birdwatching, and cultural excursions to a native tribe in the vicinity. If you deem the location remarkable, you may opt to camp overnight. The journey to the hot spring requires 1.5 hours of driving by road.
Explore the Masai Cultural Museum/Village (Olpopongi):
The Masai are undoubtedly one of Africa’s most fascinating tribes. The Masai are connected to the Nuer and Dinka tribes in South Sudan. They are comparatively tall individuals and distinguish themselves from others, particularly when adorned in their vividly coloured shukas. The majority of Masai are nomadic pastoralists residing near national parks in Tanzania and Kenya. Many individuals now traverse other towns in an effort to sustain themselves financially.
To comprehend the Masai and their lifestyle, one must visit the Masai Cultural Village and Museum located in the western region of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. This cultural community is located 74 km from Moshi town, situated between Arusha and Moshi. The Centre offers a distinctive chance for guests to engage with genuine Masai culture and lifestyle. It was constructed by the government to prevent tourists from visiting individual Masai residences, which could adversely affect their environment and traditional lifestyles. The Masai Cultural Village was constructed to mimic a traditional Masai dwelling. It is an extensive facility featuring Manyattas, kraals, and Maasai individuals. During your visit to the community, you can acquire knowledge regarding their religious, political, and social frameworks. You will explore the roles of the husband and wife within the family structure. The Masai are amicable and eager to impart knowledge regarding their history, nomadic lifestyle, and its relation to numerous national parks in the vicinity.
Explore artisan stores for souvenirs:
A captivating aspect of travel is obtaining items that serve as lasting reminders of a specific location. Tanzanians are exceptional artisans, providing numerous options and venues for purchasing gifts. Notable souvenir shops include Blue Zebra in Kibo Tower and Chui’s Trading Limited. Blue Zebra offers a selection of handcrafted purses, toys, and locally made apparel. Chui’s Trading Limited offers artisanal items, indigenous textiles, and commemorative T-shirts. Do not restrict your choices to just two, as there are many artisan businesses deserving of consideration. Many hotels possess their own souvenir stores; nevertheless, they tend to be quite costly.
Visiting Moshi:
The Materuni Waterfalls are located on the outskirts of Moshi. They are encircled by picturesque valleys, hills, coffee and banana plantations, and rainforest. Day tours are organised to explore this concealed treasure, featuring waterfalls and offering spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Moshi Town. Ascending to the summit of these waterfalls can be physically arduous, particularly for those who are not mentally equipped or accustomed to traversing high terrain. En route to or returning from the waterfalls, guests may engage in a cultural experience with the predominant local tribe. The Chagga people in the region are famous for cultivating extensive coffee and banana plantations. They are an exceptionally progressive, resourceful, and industrious tribe.
Tarangire National Park:
The acclaim of Serengeti National Park has deterred numerous tourists from uncovering one of Tanzania’s authentic treasures — Tarangire National Park. If it were located in a destination such as Rwanda, it would attract tenfold the number of visitors it already does. A safari in Tarangire National Park is comparatively economical than one in the Serengeti. Additionally, one may observe numerous creatures of the Serengeti, including lions, giraffes, gazelles, impalas, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeests, zebras, and the highest population of elephants globally. The majority of the animals assemble near a substantial waterhole adjacent to the park entrance. The optimal period to visit Tarangire is from June to October. A significant number of the park’s species move to other national parks from November to May; nevertheless, you can still observe those that stay.
Lake Chala
Lake Chala is a crater lake located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, straddling the boundary of Kenya and Tanzania. It was established 3 million years ago due to a significant volcanic explosion. The lake is encircled by a crater rim that rises 100 metres and has a depth of around 3 kilometres. Lake Chala is the deepest inland body of water in Africa. The lake’s colour varies each month, transitioning from deep blue to crystal clear at certain periods. The majority of the water is depleted and replenished by subterranean streams.
Day trip to mount Kilimanjaro
A day trip to the crater lake offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding area, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the savannah plains. The lake provides a unique serene atmosphere, invigorating air, and a chance to connect with nature. One may opt for birdwatching, kayaking, canoeing, and nature hikes in the forest encircling the lake. On a favourable day, one may encounter a troop of elephants refreshing themselves by the lake’s beaches, along with monitor lizards, small monkeys, baboons, and snakes. Lake Chala is an ideal location to retreat from the town’s cacophony, situated within an hour’s drive from the town centre. We advise that you allocate a minimum of one night in a premium tented lodge at the location. The government imposes a little fee for access to the lake region.
Kilimanjaro Animal Crew:
This establishment is located on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at Makoa Farm. The Centre was established to accommodate rescued, injured, and orphaned animals from local national parks. In Moshi, animals are returned to their natural habitat with the arrival of new individuals at the institution. The Kilimanjaro Animal Crew raises awareness regarding the significance of animal conservation. A substantial population of primates inhabits the vicinity of the facility, and visitors should anticipate close interactions with tiny monkeys and chimpanzees. Additionally, there are several species of cats, wild donkeys, bush pigs, duikers, and marabou storks, among other wildlife. The animals exhibit both tameness and wildness, necessitating caution when feeding or approaching them. A standard day at the Centre include traversing the facilities and observing all the animals under the supervision of a qualified Guide. The optimal time to visit the facility is at 4 PM during feeding hours.
Attractions in Moshi:
The Old Town Railway Station, constructed during the German colonial period in 1912. The station is currently unused and seems deserted to the goats and cows. It remains worthwhile to visit, particularly if you have no evening engagements. One can observe obsolete waggons that are no longer utilised or remain stationary while admiring Mount Kilimanjaro. Town inhabitants utilise the antiquated railway tracks as thoroughfares for their commutes to and from the town. Upon concluding your exploration of the station, you may have a bottle of Kilimanjaro beer from a former booking office that has been converted into a bar.
Explore Marangu Village:
This village is situated on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Chagga people organise specialised trips prior to and following the ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro to explore waterfalls, distinctive attractions in the Moshi landscape, and their residences. A cultural trip in Marangu village encompasses the exploration of local cuisine, language, and traditional music and dance performances. One may also listen to the tribal elders as they recount tales regarding the tribe and the historical context of mountain climbing in the region. Included in the narratives is that of Dr. Hans Meyer, the inaugural documented European to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro in 1889. Hans was escorted up the mountain by a renowned local tribesman named Yohano Lauwo. Lauwo lived for more than 115 years and provided documented accounts of his excursions trekking Mount Kilimanjaro with several tourists until he reached the age of 70.
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, one of the smaller national parks in Tanzania. The park boasts diverse species, with notable features including Mount Meru, the Momela Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater. The Ngurdoto Crater was formed approximately 15 million years ago. It spans 3 kilometres in width and is abundant in avian species and other animals. The primary activities at Arusha National Park include game drives, birdwatching, nature hikes, and seeing the Momela Lakes. The game drives provide guests with the chance to observe antelopes, blue monkeys, buffalo, elephants, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, leopards, warthogs, and zebras, among other species. Regrettably, due to the immense popularity of the adjacent Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha National Park attracts less visitors than it would in a different country.
Sample the Local Cuisine:
Although Moshi is a modest town, you will not be dissatisfied with the options for quality food. Numerous Italian, Indian, Asian, and other continental restaurants are located both within and beyond the town centre of Moshi, Tanzania. Tanzanians have a preference for meat; however, vegans can anticipate tailored accommodations at all dining establishments. Nearly all establishments provide local Swahili cuisine, including chapattis, Kiti moto (fried pig), Nyama Choma (grilled goat meat), Kuku (chicken), and grilled bananas. Ugali is the national dish composed of cassava, millet, or sorghum flour. Ugali is not consumed in isolation but rather in conjunction with accompaniments such as boiled meat or fish. Consider sampling Tanzanian Samosa accompanied by tea at Pandya Tea Room. Other excellent establishments for delectable local cuisine are Green Bamboo Restaurant, East Africa Pub, Kili Home, Maembe Café, Menu’s Bistro, Pamoja Café, Secret Garden Hotel, and Kaka’s Bar and Grill. If you are volunteering or residing longer in the area, you may procure your own food and ingredients from the local markets. The meal can be prepared with assistance from a local acquaintance or by viewing a YouTube lesson.
In Moshi, Tanzania, indulge in your preferred international cuisines: If you are reluctant to sample local dishes, consider dining at one of the premier upscale restaurants or hotels in the area that provide international fare. Delicious burgers and cuisines from Italy, Korea, China, and India are available. The cuisine is delectable, and the cost is likely significantly lower than in your homeland. The premier establishment for chips and burgers is Chrisburger, situated on Kibo Road. The fries accompany the fish and steak. For breakfast and snacks, including fried chips and chicken, you may also visit Fresh Restaurant located on Mawenzi Road. Indoitaliano Restaurant adjacent to Shule Street provides exceptional Indian and Italian cuisines. For superior salads, desserts, pizzas, and baked eggs, patronise Key’s Hotel on Uru Road.
Additional details regarding a visit to Moshi Town in Tanzania
What is the method to reach Moshi?
The optimal method to reach Moshi is to first fly to Dar es Salaam and subsequently take another aircraft to Kilimanjaro Airport. From Kilimanjaro, one can either hire a taxi or await collection by the trip operator for tourism attractions in Moshi. Direct flights are available from Masai Mara and Nairobi to Moshi. Road transport is also available from Dar es Salaam, Nairobi, Kampala, and Arusha to Moshi. Nonetheless, road travel is arduous and necessitates extended driving hours. This endeavour should be pursued by individuals with financial limitations or those desiring to explore the distinctive African landscape. Buses represent the optimal choice for long-distance travel, with numerous firms such as Dar Express offering high-quality vehicles. For an optimal experience, we advise booking first class if feasible.
What are ways for exploring the town?
Upon arrival in the town, you have various transportation options available. The predominant mode of transportation is the local minibuses referred to as Daladalas. These minibuses can accommodate up to 30 individuals and may even transport household animals. It is an economical mode of transportation for tourists to access neighbouring settlements such as Marangu and Machame in Moshi, Tanzania. To obtain one, proceed to their primary parking area and heed the announcements from the conductors regarding their intended destinations. Daladalas serve as an exceptional mode of transportation for anyone seeking to interact with the local populace. For a more exclusive tour, you may engage a private cab, a boda boda, or utilise the services of a tour operator. Always wear a helmet when using a boda boda. Always verify that the boda, daladala, or taxi is in satisfactory mechanical condition before to payment or entry. Boda bodas are inherently unsafe, particularly in the absence of a helmet. Several riders are renowned thieves in the vicinity; therefore, exercise heightened vigilance when utilising their services beyond the city centre.
International tourists must get a Tanzanian Visa upon arrival. Visas can be obtained at the nearest Tanzanian consulate or embassy in your country. A Visa can also be obtained at all principal border crossings and airports. In addition to the Tanzanian visa, visitors must possess a yellow fever vaccination card prior to entering the country.
What is a best time to visit Moshi?
Moshi experiences two distinct seasons: rainy and dry. The optimal period for visitation is during the warm months of January to February and June to September. This is the optimal period to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro. Avoid the rainy season if you intend to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro during your visit to Moshi. Precipitation diminishes visibility and renders trekking trails treacherous. The precipitation is accompanied by increased cloud cover, so diminishing the quality of vistas on mountain hikes. Precipitation occurs from March to May and again from November to early December.