Best Things to Do in Moshi, Tanzania: Waterfalls, Coffee Tours & Kilimanjaro Adventures

Nestled beneath the towering slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi is far more than a stop before climbing Africa’s highest mountain. It’s a vibrant town where coffee farms, waterfalls, hot springs, Chagga culture, wildlife, and community-led experiences come together.

Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, these are the experiences that make Moshi unforgettable.

1. Chase waterfalls at

Materuni Waterfalls

A short drive from town takes you through lush villages and banana plantations before arriving at one of Tanzania’s most beautiful waterfalls.

Along the way you’ll:

• Walk through rainforest

• Learn about Chagga traditions

• Swim beneath the waterfall (if you’re brave!)

• Enjoy spectacular Kilimanjaro views on clear days

Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, families

2. Roast your own coffee on a Chagga farm

Coffee isn’t just grown here—it’s part of everyday life.

Join local farmers to:

• Pick ripe coffee cherries

• Roast beans over charcoal

• Grind coffee the traditional way

• Sing with villagers during the roasting process

• Drink one of the freshest cups of coffee you’ll ever have

This is one of the most authentic cultural experiences around Moshi.

3. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of

Chemka Hot Springs

Despite the name, the water is cool, crystal clear, and surrounded by giant fig trees.

Spend the afternoon:

• Swimming

• Rope swinging

• Floating in turquoise water

• Relaxing with local food and drinks

A favorite day trip for both locals and visitors.

4. Meet the future of Tanzania on a Make A Difference Now Community Tour

This isn’t traditional tourism.

Spend time with young entrepreneurs, scholarship students, and graduates who are building businesses, finding employment, and transforming their communities.

Possible experiences include:

• Visit student businesses

• Meet scholarship recipients

• Tour local schools

• Share lunch with community members

• Learn about entrepreneurship in Tanzania

• Shop directly from local artisans

Every tour directly supports education and economic opportunity.

Best for: Travelers looking for meaningful cultural exchange.

5. Wander through Moshi’s local markets

The colorful markets are full of life.

You’ll discover:

• Fresh tropical fruit

• Local spices

• Handmade baskets

• Tanzanite jewelry

• Kangas and colorful fabrics

• Everyday Tanzanian life

Don’t forget to practice a little Swahili:

• Jambo! (Hello)

• Asante! (Thank you)

6. Watch sunrise over Kilimanjaro

There’s nothing quite like waking early to watch the first light hit Africa’s tallest mountain.

Best viewing locations include:

• Rooftop cafés

• Coffee lodges

• Rice fields outside town

• Banana farms surrounding Moshi

When the clouds cooperate, it’s unforgettable.

7. Cycle through villages beneath Kilimanjaro

Explore quiet roads connecting:

• Coffee farms

• Banana plantations

• Small villages

• Rivers and waterfalls

You’ll meet friendly locals and experience daily life far beyond the tourist trail.

8. Discover Chagga culture

Learn about one of Tanzania’s most influential communities.

Highlights include:

• Traditional underground caves

• Local cuisine

• Banana beer brewing

• Family farming traditions

• Cultural storytelling

These experiences offer fascinating insight into life on Kilimanjaro’s slopes.

9. Taste local Tanzanian food

Don’t leave without trying:

• Ugali

• Nyama Choma (grilled meat)

• Chipsi Mayai

• Pilau rice

• Fresh passionfruit juice

• Kilimanjaro coffee

Many family-run restaurants offer cooking classes as well.

10. Day trip on safari

If you have extra time, Moshi makes an excellent base for nearby adventures. Popular options include:

• Arusha National Park – giraffes, zebras, buffalo, flamingos, and scenic walking safaris.

• Lake Chala – a stunning volcanic crater lake ideal for kayaking and hiking.

• Serval Wildlife – close-up wildlife encounters in a conservation setting.

Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

• Sunrise coffee

• Materuni Waterfalls

• Traditional coffee experience

• Local dinner in Moshi

Day 2

• Make A Difference Now Community Tour

• Local market

• Chemka Hot Springs

• Sunset with Kilimanjaro views

Why Visit Moshi?

Unlike destinations where visitors simply pass through, Moshi invites you to slow down. You can hike beneath Africa’s highest peak in the morning, roast coffee with local farmers in the afternoon, share stories with inspiring young entrepreneurs, and end the day watching the sun set behind Mount Kilimanjaro.