The Most Endangered Animals in Africa Africa boasts more species of charismatic megafauna than any…
10 Best Things to Do in and Around Moshi, Tanzania
10 Best Things to Do in and Around Moshi, Tanzania
Moshi is the most practical base for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, while Arusha serves as the entry point to Tanzania’s Northern safari circuit. When you first get to Moshi, it might not look like much, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that there’s a lot to do and see. Read on to learn about some of the top activities to do in Moshi, Tanzania, regardless of how long you plan to stay or how little time you have to spare.
Ascend Mount Kilimanjaro
The goal of many visitors to Moshi is to ascend the highest freestanding peak in the world and the tallest mountain in Africa. It may take five to eight days to complete the ascent. Remember that reaching the summit of this famous monument shouldn’t be a competition. Additional days make the trip more pleasurable overall and aid in your gradual ascent to altitude.
2. Go Swimming Under the Materuni Waterfalls
The “Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour,” a guided climb on the lower foot slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, is a well-liked day trip from Moshi. You will be greeted by welcoming locals as you traverse their farmed fields to arrive at the pool at the foot of the 150-meter-tall waterfall, which is ideal for a cool dip during the day. Following a delicious traditional lunch at a nearby Chagga homestead, you will discover how to process coffee, the region’s primary cash crop.
3. Join the Maasai in Dancing
You will need to visit a Maasai boma (village) while in Moshi. It is truly an honor to be able to see even a small portion of the true Maasai culture and how it continues to thrive in spite of all obstacles. You will almost certainly be treated to a jumping dance. Young warriors alternately leap up and down in a rhythmic manner. It appears simpler than it actually is. When you receive an invitation to participate, you will shortly learn more.
4. Visit Kikuletwa Hot Springs for a swim.
A visit to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs is among the most well-liked activities in Moshi. Tucked hidden in the middle of dry scrublands, this lovely refuge is barely an hour’s drive from town. Numerous colorful birds and blue monkeys frequently visit the large fig trees that encircle the brilliant geothermal pool. Despite being referred to as hot springs, the water is actually only lukewarm at most, making it ideal for a cool bath after a safari or Kili climb.
5. Visit the Old Railway Station and have a beer.
You should definitely see Mount Kilimanjaro while in Moshi, even if you’re not into scaling absurdly high mountains. Why not have a refreshing beer while you watch the last of the sun’s rays shimmer over the snow-capped peaks of the “Roof of Africa” to round off the day? The Old Railway Station, a quaint colonial remnant that has been transformed into a little cafĂ©, is an excellent site to do so.
6. Admire the Deep Blue Hues of Lake Chala
Make your way to Lake Chala, a serene location for a stroll in the outdoors, to escape the bustle of Moshi. Nearly 100 meters deep, this old small crater lake is supplied by underground streams from Mount Kilimanjaro. This could be the reason for its ethereal, deep blue hue, which will catch your attention as soon as you see this lovely body of water. Despite how inviting it appears, don’t swim because crocodiles are rumored to be hiding beneath the surface.
7. Browse the Market Until You Drop
If you do not get the opportunity to interact with the natives wherever you travel in Africa, you will be missing out. If you want to experience real Africa, start at Mbuyuni market, which is located in the heart of Moshi. Everything is available here, but keep an eye out for the shops that sell vibrant kitenge. Beautiful mementos to bring home are made from these wraparound textiles.
8. Visit the Moshi Club to play golf.
The fact that Moshi boasts one of the most exquisite golf courses in East Africa would excite any golf enthusiast. The Moshi Club, a distinguished organization established in 1920, is in charge of overseeing the nine-hole course at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Tennis and squash courts are among the club’s other sports facilities.
9. Visit a Roadside Store to Try Chipsi Mayai
In Moshi, you may find the well-known Tanzanian street dish chipsi mayai, or chips and eggs, almost everywhere. Typically consumed by hand, the oily, chunky chip omelet is frequently served with kachambari (tomatoes and onions) on the side. You’ll be astounded by how delicious this tastes, even though it may not be the most elegant of Tanzania’s culinary offerings.
10. Explore the Chagga Underground Caves to Learn About Local History
The attractions of Marangu, the entry point to Kilimanjaro National Park, are included in a well-liked tour departing from Moshi. A visit to the Chagga Underground Caves, coffee tasting at a tiny subsistence farm, and excursions to a few waterfalls are all included in the full-day schedule. In reality, the latter are tunnels that the Chagga people dug out 200 years ago to defend themselves against Maasai assaults during dry spells. Consider taking this excursion on a mountain bike if you’re feeling really active.