Moshi

Moshi is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences, It is a small town that is filled with fresh air and lush green vegetation. You can clearly see Mount Kilimanjaro towering over the clouds. You can just walk down the Moshi streets visiting curio shops and admiring the African paintings in the shops. The town isoften overshadowed by its more famous neighbors.

Moshi has old architecture and buildings, especially around Moshi Town. These buildings were set up during colonial times and still exist up to today. Most of these buildings have been maintained and converted into restaurants, hotels, lodges, and even business buildings.

Moshi Clock Tower: The iconic Clock Tower in the center of town serves as a meeting point and a symbol of Moshi. It’s a great starting point for your city tour.

Best time to visit Moshi

Timing your visit to Moshi can greatly impact your experience, as the region has distinct weather patterns that influence outdoor activities. The best time to visit is generally during the dry seasons, which run from June to October and January to February. These months offer clear skies and pleasant temperatures, ideal for trekking Mount Kilimanjaro or exploring the surrounding nature. The dry conditions also make it easier to navigate the trails and enjoy the stunning vistas without the interference of rain.

Visa and Entry Requirements

E-Visa: Must be obtained online before your trip via the official Tanzanian e-Visa website (www.visa.immigration.go.tz).
Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
Visa Fee: Paid in cash (USD is widely accepted) or online if applying for an e-Visa.
Return Ticket: Proof of onward or return travel.
Proof of Sufficient Funds: While not always asked for, it’s good to have documentation showing you can support yourself during your stay.
Vaccination: Yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Attractions

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro: The first thing that catches your eye when approaching Moshi is the amazing snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. This dormant volcano is the highest mountain in Africa. It rises up to 5,895 meters above sea level and its peak is sometimes referred to as the “Roof of Africa”.

Kilimanjaro Coffee Plantations. Many plantations offer family-friendly tours that include interactive coffee-making experiences. Children can learn about the coffee-growing process, participate in picking beans, and even enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. This engaging experience helps children appreciate agriculture and the importance of coffee in the local culture.

The Old Boma, a historical building that once served as a colonial administrative center. Today, it stands as a reminder of Moshi’s colonial past and is often used for cultural events and exhibitions. Engaging with local historians or participating in workshops can provide valuable insights into the region’s history and cultural evolution.

The Chaga Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the indigenous Chaga people. The museum showcases traditional farming practices, local crafts, and the significance of Mount Kilimanjaro in Chaga mythology. Guided tours often include storytelling sessions from local elders, bringing the history to life and providing a personal touch to your visit.

Tarangire National Park, known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. A day trip from Moshi can easily be arranged, making it a perfect escape into nature. Whether you choose to hike, cycle, or embark on a safari, Moshi’s surrounding natural beauty provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Lake Manyara National Park is highly recommended. Just a short drive from Moshi, this park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions. A guided safari will enhance the experience, providing insights into the unique ecosystems and conservation efforts in the area. The park’s stunning landscapes, including the Rift Valley escarpment, offer fantastic opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Materuni Waterfalls, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools after a scenic hike. The trail to the falls winds through lush coffee plantations and offers opportunities to learn about the local flora and fauna.

The Old Town Railway Station: The old Moshi Railway Station was built during the Germany colonial rule (1912). The station is no longer in use and appears abandoned for now to the goats and cows. It is still worth visiting especially if you have nothing to do in the evening. You can spot old wagons that are no longer in use or sit somewhere and marvel at the Mount Kilimanjaro. Town residents use the old railway tracks as roads on their way to and from town. When you are done exploring the station, you can sip a bottle of Kilimanjaro beer from an old booking office that has now been turned into a bar.

Old Moshi Cultural Tourism Located just 10 km north of Moshi town in the Kilimanjaro region, Old Moshi is a place where the past comes alive. This historical village was once the center of Chagga leadership under Mangi Meli, one of the most influential Chagga chiefs who ruled before and during the colonial era. Old Moshi holds a significant place in Tanzania’s history as the original site of Moshi town, established by German colonialists in 1893. The remnants of this era are still visible today, including the old German military station, which now serves as Kolila Secondary School.

Souvenir shopping

Sanaa Zetu, an artisan cooperative that showcases the work of local artists. This shop offers a variety of handcrafted items, including jewelry, paintings, and home décor.

Kibo Tower, a bustling market filled with vibrant stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional clothing. Here, visitors can find beautiful batik fabrics, intricate beadwork, and wooden carvings that make for perfect mementos or gifts for loved ones back home.

Transportation in Moshi

Getting around Moshi is convenient, with various transportation options available to suit different needs. The town is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Strolling through the streets allows visitors to soak in the local atmosphere, discover charming shops, and enjoy the scenic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. For those who prefer to cover more ground, local taxis are readily available and provide an affordable means of transportation to various attractions.

Motorcycle taxis, known as “boda bodas,” are another popular option for getting around Moshi. These motorcycle taxis are particularly useful for short distances, offering a quick and exciting way to navigate the town. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid any surprises.

For flights one of the first things you’ll need to consider is your arrival airport. The town is located close to Two of the most popular airports which Moshi Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Moshi Airport is conveniently placed in the western part of the town and is mainly used for domestic flights across Tanzania. you can fly to Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Tanga, Mwanza and other local destinations. Also, the only Mt Kilimanjaro helicopter rescue & transportation service is based there. In case you decide to get down from the summit camps of the mountain by helicopter, the airport of Moshi will be the place you arrive at.

international destinations then Kilimanjaro International Airport is the best option. It’s a modern airport with excellent facilities and transport links. It also has more flight options and can accommodate large aircraft.

For buses there avaliable from Moshi to Dar es salaam. The distance is approximately 429 kilometers, with travel time of 8/9 hours. The route is served by Kilimanjalo express, Happy nation, Bm coaches, etc. Each bus has its on departure point. Some buses from Nairobi to Dar es salaam and vice versa pass through the town.

Accommodation in Moshi

Moshi offers a wide range of accommodations that cater to every type of traveler, ensuring a comfortable stay no matter your budget or preference. My choice as a budget traveller is Hill view garden hotel.

Where to eat

Moshi offers a vibrant dining scene that combines traditional Tanzanian cuisine with international flavors, catering to a variety of tastes. Visitors can enjoy freshly grilled nyama choma (barbecued meat) at local roadside joints, savor authentic Swahili dishes at family-run restaurants, or indulge in gourmet dining at upscale eateries. The city’s markets are bustling with food stalls serving up delicious local street food, while cozy cafes provide a perfect spot to relax with a cup of locally grown coffee.

Chrisburger: Descent food for good money. Their menu includes steaks, burgers to fish and other local dishes as well as their popular and famous samosas.

Kilimanjaro Coffee Lounge: a Chilled outdoor seatings and a menu that covers pizza, Mexican food as well as sandwiches and burgers

La Fuente Gardens: located in Shanty Town, La Fuente serves fine Mexican food in a beautiful garden hence the name. They also have a remarkable dessert menu and a great kids playground.

Healthcare

One of the main healthcare facility is Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC). It is well-regarded and provides medical services to both locals and visitors. For medical emergencies or serious illnesses, it’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.

Important things to note

• Crime: Moshi is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution and avoid displaying valuables openly. Use hotel safes for passports, cash, and other valuables.
• Traveling at Night: Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Use licensed taxis for transportation after dark.
• If trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, choose routes that allow for proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness. Follow the guidance of experienced guides and listen to your body.
• Sunscreen: Use sunscreen with a high SPF and reapply regularly, especially at high altitudes where UV exposure is stronger.
• Drink bottled water from trusted sources to avoid waterborne illnesses. Ensure that bottled water seals are intact before consumption.
• It’s strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation in case of serious illness or injury.
• Moshi is in a malaria-endemic region. Take preventive measures such as using mosquito repellent, sleeping under a mosquito net, and considering anti-malarial medication.