Moshi, Tanzania the vibrant gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro, is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, and serene escapes. Whether you’re preparing to climb Africa’s highest mountain or exploring its scenic foothills, this charming town offers endless possibilities.
In this ultimate guide to things to do in Moshi, discover unforgettable hikes, soothing hot springs, authentic cultural tours, and scenic day trips that showcase the very best of northern Tanzania.
For many travelers, Moshi is more than just the starting point for Kilimanjaro, it’s the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s spirit of adventure and hospitality. From here, you can easily plan day trips to explore nearby national parks like Tarangire, and Arusha National park or continue your journey to the tropical beaches of Zanzibar Island. Whether you’re planning a full northern circuit safari or a short getaway, Moshi fits beautifully into any itinerary. For a deeper dive into planning your trip, check out our Ultimate Guide to Tanzania for everything you need to know before you go.
1. Summit Mount Kilimanjaro
If conquering Mount Kilimanjaro has always been on your travel list, Moshi is the perfect base. As the world’s tallest free-standing mountain, reaching its summit is both a challenge and a dream come true. Between 35,000 and 50,000 people attempt to climb Kilimanjaro every year and if you’re seeking the ultimate challenge, it doesn’t get bigger than this.
There are multiple routes to choose from, each varying in difficulty, scenery, and duration. The trek typically takes 6–8 days, allowing for proper acclimatization and breathtaking views along routes like the Machame, Lemosho, and Marangu routes.
If you’re not up for a full summit, you can opt for a day hike which offers a taste of the mountain and a glimpse into its beauty. It’s a great story to tell as you can still say you’ve climbed the tallest mountain in Africa
💡 Pro Tip: Before you plan, read our Complete Kilimanjaro Climbing Guide for expert advice on routes, packing lists, and the best climbing seasons.
2. Take a Kilimanjaro Day Hike
If you don’t have time to summit Kilimanjaro, a day hike is a perfect way to experience Africa’s tallest mountain. Several routes offer scenic one-day adventures, each with its own character:
• Marangu Route (Mandara Hut):
The easiest and most popular option. This gentle trail winds through rainforest alive with birds and colobus monkeys, reaching Mandara Hut (2,700 m) in about 3–4 hours. Ideal for beginners and families.
• Machame Route:
A steeper, more rewarding hike that gives you a real taste of a full expedition. In about 5–6 hours round trip, you’ll trek through dense rainforest toward Machame Camp (3,000 m), enjoying stunning views along the way.
• Lemosho Route (Shira Plateau):
This scenic option starts with a 4×4 drive to Shira Gate (3,400 m), then continues on foot across vast alpine meadows with panoramic views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro’s summit, a favorite for photographers.
No matter which route you choose, a Kilimanjaro day hike offers unforgettable scenery, fresh mountain air, and the thrill of standing on the slopes of Africa’s highest peak.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring warm layers, plenty of water, and always hike with a certified Kilimanjaro guide.
3. Relax at the Chemka Hot Springs
A favorite among travelers, Chemka Hot Springs (Kikuletwa Hot Springs) is a tropical oasis about an hour and a half from Moshi. The turquoise waters, framed by lush palm and fig trees, make it the ultimate relaxation spot perfect for a peaceful morning, a hot afternoon, or a post-hike cooldown.
Pack your swimwear, some snacks, and dive into the crystal-clear spring. Bring goggles to enjoy the incredible underwater visibility. A daytrip from Moshi to Chemka Hot Springs is the perfect way to unwind and recharge making it one of the best things to do in Moshi for many traveler itineraries.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds, or camp overnight for a magical evening under the stars.
4. Escape to Rau Forest
For a peaceful, eco-friendly escape, head to Rau Forest Reserve, just outside Moshi. This lush, groundwater forest is home to a rich variety of bird species and mammals such as black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and Kirk’s dik-dik.
Rau Forest is also famous for hosting one of Tanzania’s largest and oldest African teak (Milicia excelsa) trees. Despite being close to the rapidly growing town, it remains a well-preserved natural gem, ideal for birdwatching, photography, and responsible tourism.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit during community events like the Rau Forest Fun Run or Bike Challenge for a memorable local experience.
5. Discover Marangu Village and Its Waterfalls
A short drive from Moshi, Marangu Village offers a captivating blend of Chagga culture and stunning natural landscapes.
On a Marangu Waterfalls Day Trip, travelers can taste local culture, feel Mt. Kilimanjaro’s magic and chase three(3) unique waterfalls i.e. hike Ndoro, Kinukamori, and Kilasiya Falls, where you can swim in cool, clear mountain pools.
Don’t miss the nearby Chagga Caves, once used as hideouts during tribal conflicts between the Chagga and the Maasai along with gentle hikes through lush rainforests and coffee & banana plantations
This is one of the most authentic cultural experiences near Moshi, perfect for travelers who love history, nature, and local connection.
6. Explore Materuni Village & Waterfall
Just a short drive from Moshi, Materuni Village offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and flavor.
Take a guided hike to the stunning Materuni Waterfall, enjoy a traditional Chagga-style lunch, and take part in a coffee-making ceremony with local farmers.
You’ll witness the entire process, from picking beans to roasting and brewing and finish by tasting your own cup of fresh, aromatic coffee. This day trip to Materuni is an immersive experience perfectly blends Tanzanian culture with nature’s beauty making it one of the most popular activities to do in Moshi
💡 Pro Tip: Best enjoyed before or after your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.
7. Explore Moshi by Bike
Cycling around Moshi offers a fantastic combination of adventure and local immersion. Ride through banana farms, small villages, and scenic trails at the foothills of Kilimanjaro. Many tours combine cycling with cultural visits or coffee farm stops.
For outdoor enthusiasts, check out our Day Trips from Moshi section for more active adventure ideas.
At African Delight Safari, we offer guided bike tours of the town and surrounding countryside, a perfect way to see the sights while getting some exercise.
8. Visit to Lake Chala
A hidden gem on the Tanzania–Kenya border, Lake Chala lies about 1.5 hours from Moshi. This stunning crater lake is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike, home to a variety of bird species and surrounded by peaceful, untouched wilderness.
You can hike around the rim, kayak across the calm turquoise waters, or simply relax with a picnic. While it can be visited as a day trip, staying overnight is highly recommended as there’s a tented lodge and public campsite available.
💡 Pro Tip: Combine your visit with Marangu Village for a full-day nature and culture experience.
9. Visit the Maasai Tribe at Olpopongi
A visit to a local Maasai village offers an incredible cultural experience. The Maasai are famous for their vibrant traditions and deep-rooted customs.
For an authentic immersion, visit Olpopongi Maasai Village, where you’ll learn about traditional Maasai architecture, customs, and daily life. Participate in their dances, sample local dishes, and gain a deeper appreciation for Tanzania’s cultural diversity.
Such cultural tours not only enrich travelers but also support local communities.
💡 Pro Tip: The area surrounding Olpopongi is home to wildlife so keep an eye out for giraffes and zebras.
10. Shop at Moshi’s Local Markets
Immerse yourself in daily Tanzanian life by visiting Moshi’s Memorial Market or Mbuyuni Market. Browse colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, kitenge fabrics, handmade crafts, Maasai jewelry, and more.
- Memorial Market may seem chaotic, filled with stalls selling second-hand clothes, but with patience, you can uncover incredible bargains even brand-name clothing at rock-bottom prices. Decide on your budget before negotiating, and don’t hesitate to walk away if the price doesn’t suit you.
- Mbuyuni Market is another vibrant stop where shopping supports the local community and provides access to the freshest ingredients. Pick up some spices or snacks as unique souvenirs.
Visiting Moshi’s food markets isn’t just about shopping, it’s about experiencing the community’s spirit and culinary culture.
💡 Pro Tip: Bargaining is part of the fun! Do it respectfully and with a smile
11. Tour, Sip Drinks & Enjoy the Sunset at the Old Railway Station
Few spots in Moshi capture its laid-back charm like the Old Railway Station. Once a colonial-era transit hub, it’s now a trendy café and bar offering panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Built in the late 1800s, the station showcases the region’s colonial history and architectural elegance. Join a guided tour to learn about its construction, role in trade and transport, and impact on the region’s growth.
Afterward, grab a cold drink, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy a spectacular sunset with clear views of Mount Kilimanjaro the perfect way to end your day in Moshi.
12. Tour the Kilimanjaro Coffee Plantations
Coffee tours in Tanzania offer a fascinating look at the country’s agricultural heritage and the bean-to-cup journey. Visit the Kilimanjaro Plantation (KPL) one of the first large-scale, single-origin coffee producers in Tanzania, growing coffee since 1955 on the mountain’s southern slopes.
Kilimanjaro’s ideal climate and fertile volcanic soil produce some of the world’s finest Arabica coffee. Originally cultivated on plantations, coffee was soon adopted by the business-savvy Chagga (Wachaga) tribe who are the locals and remains a staple of every smallholder farm in the region.
💡 Pro Tip: Purchase coffee directly from the plantation to support local farmers and bring home the freshest beans a perfect souvenir that lets you savor your Moshi memories long after your trip.
13. Play Golf
Playing golf with Africa’s highest peak as your backdrop is an experience like no other. The cool breeze and stunning landscape make every game memorable, and golfers of all levels are welcome.
Surprisingly, Moshi has two easily accessible golf courses:
- Moshi Club, conveniently located in the town center, offers a relaxing atmosphere with clubhouse facilities where you can unwind after a round, enjoy a drink or light meal with views of Kilimanjaro.
- TPC Golf Course is situated little outside of town lies the, located within the 8,000-hectare TPC sugar plantation. This beautifully maintained 9-hole course is ideal for golfers and families alike. You can rent clubs, enjoy the scenic grounds, and dine at the excellent onsite restaurant afterward.
14. Run the Kilimanjaro Marathon
Every February, Moshi bursts with energy during the Kilimanjaro Marathon, one of East Africa’s most celebrated sporting events. Runners race through the town’s scenic streets and rural landscapes with Mount Kilimanjaro towering in the background, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Held on the last Sunday of February, the marathon attracts thousands of participants from around the world, from beginners to professionals. You can choose between the 5 km Fun Run, the 21 km Half Marathon, or the full 42 km race. It’s best to arrive a few days early to acclimatize and complete registration, which includes a small entry fee and race kit.
Even if you’re not running, joining the cheering crowd is just as exciting. The event turns Moshi into a lively festival with music, local food, and entertainment throughout the day. Whether you run or spectate, the Kilimanjaro Marathon is an inspiring celebration of endurance, community, and Tanzanian spirit.
Final Thoughts
From soaking in the warm waters of Hot Springs to exploring Chagga villages, hiking waterfalls, and cycling beneath the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi is packed with adventure, culture, and charm at every turn making it a great destination for fun activities and things to do in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Whether you’re here to climb Africa’s highest mountain, unwind in nature, or experience authentic Tanzanian life, Moshi offers something special for every kind of traveler. Its laid-back atmosphere, welcoming people, and stunning scenery make it one of northern Tanzania’s most rewarding destinations.
Before you go, be sure to explore our full collection of Moshi Day Trips & Kilimanjaro Adventures to plan your perfect itinerary and make the most of your time in this unforgettable town.
