Things To Do In Moshi Kilimanjaro
Kilimanjaro Is one among the 31 regions of the mainland Tanzania. It is located in the Northern part of the country with Moshi town as the centre of the regions.
The regions is well known as the home of the most popular mountain in Africa, Christen Kilimanjaro.
Mount Kilimanjaro is primarily renowned for its towering summits and the Natural Park that encircles it. The Kilimanjaro National Park spans 291 square miles and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, it’s a misconception that a tip to Kilimanjaro is limited to just climbing the world’s tallest free-standing mountain.
However, if you’re short on time, there are numerous wonderful and budget-friendly activities available locally as well. So, keep reading to discover the top 10 activities around the Kilimanjaro region.
1. Scale Mount Kilimanjaro
There’s no question that the top priority for any explorer’s bucket list is to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro. Standing tall at an impressive height of 5,895 meters, this inactive volcano draws in numerous climbers annually. Begin an incredible expedition as you traverse through various weather conditions, ranging from dense rainforests to high-altitude deserts, before finally reaching the peak covered in snow. It’s a demanding yet highly gratifying adventure.
2. Explore the Materuni Waterfalls
Nestled within the genuine tribal community of the Chagga people, approximately 15km from Moshi, is a serene spot near the magnificent Materuni Waterfalls, towering nearly 80m in height. The pool at the base is an excellent spot for a refreshing swim. Numerous tours provide the opportunity to sample local banana beer, crafted by the Chagga tribespeople, and some even offer a visit to the Maji Moto Swimming Hole.
3. Rejuvenate at the Maji Moto Swimming Hole
Maji Moto, meaning “hot water” in Swahili, is also referred to as Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Situated 35km from Moshi, it serves as a stunning oasis amidst the arid savanna. The verdant rainforest setting is home to a pool of crystal clear water, heated naturally, ideal for relaxation following your hike. Some guides offer a picnic lunch, and for a more upscale experience, consider bringing a barbecue and enjoying a day out.
4. Moshi Club
Established in 1920, Moshi Club is situated at the base of the highest peak in Africa, Mt. Kilimanjaro. It’s the golf course that offers a panoramic view of the major tourist spot, the snow-capped mountain, located just a few degrees south of the equator, from all angles on the golf course. The Moshi Club Golf Course holds the distinction of being one of the oldest golf courses in Tanzania and boasts a 9-hole course (Par 35, with a distance of 3.217 yards from the men’s tees).
5. Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour
This stunning waterfall stands out as one of the tallest in the region, shooting crystal-clear water from a glacier up to 70 meters into its basin. The picturesque trail leading to Materuni Waterfall is situated at an elevation of 2500 meters above sea level. It winds through valleys and hills
blanketed by tropical rainforests, passing by coffee, banana, and avocado & shamba which is the Kiswahili term for farms. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Kibo and Moshi Town.
The journey to the waterfall’s base is challenging, making hiking boots a necessity. Given its proximity to Moshi Town, this trip is perfect for those with limited time but still eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of this part of Tanzania. Materuni is a unique village in Northern Tanzania, nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
This village is rich in beauty and is a must-visit for anyone seeking a holiday, weekend getaway, or vacation. The village offers stunning views of Moshi Town and Mount Kilimanjaro. Surrounded by lush greenery, the air is fresh, inviting visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty and learn about the Chagga people’s cultural heritage.
A cultural highlight of the trip could be learning to brew banana beer or roast coffee the traditional way.
6. Lake Chala
Situated at the edge of Tanzania and Kenya, Lake Chala is a volcanic crater lake that stands as one of the deepest lakes in Africa, reaching a depth of 295 feet (90 meters). It’s a favored destination for activities like hiking and kayaking, and the lake’s rich variety of birdlife makes it an ideal place for observing birds.
7. Mkomazi National Park
Situated in the northern region of Tanzania, the park is located near Kilimanjaro and Tanga. It shares a border with Tsavo West National Park in Kenya to the north. The park is approximately 120 kilometers east of Moshi town. It is part of the Mkomazi-Tsavo Ecosystem, which ranks as the second largest trans-boundary ecosystem in East Africa, following the renowned Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem.
Within the park, the Umba river is home to several rare colobus monkeys that inhabit the riverine forests. The park experiences a semi-arid climate, marked by a bimodal pattern of rainfall.
The southern part of the park extends into the Sahel habitat, known for its Acacia-Commiphora tree species.
Mkomazi National Park boasts a diverse array of mammal species, with over eighteen (18) reported, including the big five. It is also home to more than 450 bird species. The park is distinguished by its unique features. It is one of the few protected areas in Tanzania with a significant population of gerenuk and a high concentration of Beisa Oryx. It is recognized as one of the most biodiverse savannahs in Africa and potentially the world, highlighted by the presence of rare and endemic wildlife such as wild dogs and black rhinoceros.
8. Discover the Wonders of Kilimanjaro National Park
Situated around the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Kilimanjaro National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a destination that should not be missed. Activities in Kilimanjaro. Dive into the beauty of the park’s visit to Kilimanjaro, marvel at the unparalleled splendor of lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and glaciers. Marvel at the incredible sights that await you while climbing Kilimanjaro, including the best experiences and must-see attractions in the Kilimanjaro region. Immerse yourself in the park’s visit to Kilimanjaro, exploring the diverse wildlife species such as elephants, buffalos, and the elusive leopards. Capture the breathtaking views of the snow-capped summit.
9. Climb Kibo Peak
Are you dreaming of reaching the summit of the planet? Kibo Peak is a must-visit destination. It stands as one of the three volcanic giants of Mount Kilimanjaro, boasting the title of Africa’s tallest peak! Incredible vistas await you all year long.
The sole summit that maintains its snow cover year-round. The ascent to the summit can be quite challenging and is best suited for experienced climbers. Fear not, though. Numerous base camps at the foothills offer accommodation and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery!
10. Travel The Hira Plateau
Situated along one of the paths to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, a short distance to the west of Mount Kibo, the Shira Plateau is a breathtaking feature. It is a volcanic caldera. As you traverse the plateau, you’ll be walking on the remains of a volcano that has been inactive for over 500,000 years. This area is a favorite among nature lovers for its rich variety of wildlife, particularly in terms of animals.
Take your time to observe elephants, buffalos, elands, and lions in this area – but be prepared for the dense vegetation, which may require some effort to find clear views of the animals.
