Located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Moshi is the coffee producing centre of the country. All around the town and on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, there are vast plantations of coffee blanket covering the area. Coffee is a mainstay of life in Moshi, and the seasonal coffee auction is an event not to be missed if you’re in town. At this event, wholesale coffee is bid on by international buyers, to which it is then packaged and sold. There is also a coffee roasting factory where you can learn more about the production of this beverage or programs that lead short hikes to nearby coffee farms.
With an elevation of 19,341 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is the world’s highest free-standing mountain, making it one of the most popular mountains in the world. While virtually all visitors in Moshi are there to climb the challenging mountain, there’s so much more to do than just that, including cultural tours and historical sites.
Where To Eat
Lunch
La Fuente Gardens
For all you Mexican lovers, La Fuente Gardens is the place for you! For a break from the local food, come here to indulge in the variety of foods, desserts, and drinks offered. With seating inside and out, the grounds are well maintained, and acts as a nice little hideaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Indoitaliano
Hot food, great taste, great service, cold beer – what more could you ask for. Popular among tourists who are just finishing their trek down Kilimanjaro, Indoitaliano offers delicious Indian and Italian foods for anyone who’s hungry. Try the chicken tikka masala, pepper steak, or curry dish – you won’t be disappointed!
Dinner
Meku’s Bistro
Looking for a fun night out with some friends? Meku’s Bistro is perfect, as they have delicious cocktails to enjoy while watching soccer or listening to great music all night long. Try some traditional foods such as goat and banana, or not so traditional with a yummy pizza to split between the table.
Ubuntu
At this hip African cafe, sit down to a selection of smoothies and cold pressed juices. For the older crowd, indulge in some “adult milkshakes” while choosing from the variety of wraps, savory, salads, and vegan options. Finish the night off with a cocktail, local beer, or wine while deciding between the cookie dough egg rolls and nutella banana split for dessert – just to name a few.
Chrisburgers
Stop by this quick and convenient place after your long day of trekking through Kilimanjaro for a selection of burgers, chicken, or fish. With a relaxing atmosphere to welcome both the locals and travelers, Chrisburgers has plenty of room for everyone. This restaurant is definitely worth the stop if you want palatable food at a reasonable price.
Kikuletwa Hotsprings
Kikuletwa Hot Springs is the most exciting place to swim in Tanzania, as it is surrounded by beautiful fig trees, making it feel like a hidden paradise. Although called a hot spring, the water in Kikuletwa is not hot, but rather refreshing since the water comes straight from the Kilimanjaro mountain.
Kilimanjaro Trek Via Lemosho Route
Lemosho Route is the most beautiful route up to Kilimanjaro, as it is the most remote, making it the least traveled. This route allows you plenty of time to acclimate to the high altitudes, which is key for your safety, comfort, and enjoyment during the trek. This route is typically climbed in 6-8 days, allowing you plenty of time to soak up the beautiful landscapes.
Kilimanjaro Animal CREW
Kilimanjaro Animal CREW is an organization for people that strive for change, for wildlife and nature and also for those living in unfortunate circumstances. Visit their farm to hike with monkeys who freely follow along and meet some of the other residents of the CREW farm such as a three-legged cat, a duiker, bush pigs, and a marabou stork.
Where To Stay
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
Perfect for its location, Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is just a five-minute drive from Moshi main bus terminal, although it still feels isolated from all of the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you will find a place to relax peacefully while enjoying the great service and fresh food offered 24/7. At night, enjoy a nice evening on the rooftop bar, while enjoying the tremendous view of the mountain.
Aishi Machame Hotel
For those who are one with nature, the Aishi Machame Hotel is the perfect place for you. Find yourself relaxing and enjoying the Tanzanian nature in the beautiful tropical gardens with a very nice pool amongst them. Enjoy a dine at the restaurant with a picturesque view of the gardens below.
Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
As one of the nicer places to stay in Moshi, the Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge is a very special and unique place to anyone who travels through. For a day on the grounds, find yourself on a tour with the staff as there is much to explore. On your walk you will find a rabbit barn, a trout farm, and horse stables – all out and open in the acres of land and nature.
- While the fuel, food, and camping costs are a lot cheaper than other African countries, Tanzania park fees don’t come so cheap. Tanzanian Parks charge alot for foreigners to enter, so make sure you take that into account when booking.
- The national currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling. At the time of writing the exchange rate is around 2290 shillings to $1 USD.
- It is best not to drink the water in Tanzania. Bottled water is cheap and readily available. Expect to pay anywhere from 1000-2000 shilling per 1.5 liters.
- If you are renting a car, keep the doors and windows locked while driving in the major cities. Car-jackings occur fairly regularly but may not end in violence as long as you comply with demands made.
- The best months to climb Kilimanjaro are January, February, and September when it is warm and dry.
