7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Moshi

Moshi, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and adventure. Nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, this vibrant town offers more than just stunning views and coffee plantations. For those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, Moshi serves as a gateway to a variety of weekend getaways, ranging from the popular to the hidden gems. Here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate the spirit of any traveler.

Arusha National Park

Just a short journey from Moshi, Arusha National Park offers an accessible slice of Tanzanian wildlife and serene landscapes. The park is a sanctuary for giraffes, zebras, and a myriad of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy a safari, canoeing on the Momella Lakes, or even a hike to the beautiful Ngurdoto Crater. The park's close proximity to Moshi makes it an ideal spot for a quick retreat into nature.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Arusha National Park is by road, which takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car or bus from Moshi.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to explore the park with a ranger-guided walking safari for an up-close encounter with the wildlife.

Where to Stay: The Hatari Lodge offers a unique experience with its retro style and views of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. Alternatively, the Arusha Serena Hotel provides a comfortable stay with its beautiful garden setting.

Where to Eat: The Momella Wildlife Lodge has a restaurant that offers a variety of dishes with a view of the park, perfect for a meal after a day of exploration.

Lake Chala

For a tranquil escape, Lake Chala is a hidden gem on the border of Tanzania and Kenya. This crater lake, surrounded by lush forests, is a stunning sight with its deep blue waters. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. The area is also great for bird watching and hiking around the crater rim for panoramic views.

How to Get There: Lake Chala is about a 1.5-hour drive from Moshi, with the last part of the journey on a dirt road, making it an adventure in itself.

Travel Tip: Visit during the week to avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience.

Where to Stay: Lake Chala Safari Camp offers tented accommodation with stunning views of the lake and an opportunity to sleep under the stars.

Where to Eat: The campsite also has a restaurant that serves a variety of local and international cuisine, with the added bonus of a scenic dining experience.

Marangu Waterfalls

Marangu, known as the gateway to the Kilimanjaro, hides the beautiful Marangu Waterfalls. These falls are a refreshing retreat where you can swim in the natural pools or enjoy a picnic surrounded by the lush greenery. The area is also rich in Chagga culture, and visitors can take a cultural tour to learn about the local traditions and history.

How to Get There: Marangu is about an hour's drive from Moshi, and the waterfalls can be reached with a short hike from the town.

Travel Tip: Bring water shoes for a comfortable swim in the rocky pools and a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Where to Stay: Marangu Hotel offers a cozy stay with beautiful gardens and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area.

Where to Eat: The hotel's restaurant serves up delicious local dishes, including fresh trout from the mountain streams.

Lake Jipe

Off the beaten track, Lake Jipe straddles the border of Tanzania and Kenya and is a haven for birdwatchers and those seeking solitude. The lake's reed beds are home to a variety of bird species, and the backdrop of the Pare and Usambara Mountains creates a picturesque setting. Visitors can take boat trips to explore the lake, spot hippos, and visit local fishing villages.

How to Get There: The journey to Lake Jipe from Moshi takes about 3 hours by car, traveling through scenic landscapes and rural villages.

Travel Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a good zoom lens for your camera to capture wildlife from a distance.

Where to Stay: Lake Jipe Safari Camp provides basic but comfortable accommodation with the chance to wake up to the sound of birds and hippos.

Where to Eat: The camp's restaurant offers simple meals, often featuring freshly caught fish from the lake.

Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour

Materuni is the home of the Chagga tribe and is just a short trip from Moshi. The Materuni Waterfalls are a breathtaking sight, and the cool waters offer a refreshing dip after a hike through the lush landscapes. A visit to Materuni also provides an opportunity to experience a traditional coffee tour, where you can learn about the local coffee-making process from bean to cup.

How to Get There: Materuni is approximately 15 kilometers from Moshi, and the journey can be made by car or local transport, followed by a hike to the waterfalls.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a swimsuit to enjoy the waterfall's natural pool.

Where to Stay: There are several guesthouses in the village, such as the Kilimanjaro Eco Lodge, which offers a cultural experience and stunning views.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a traditional Chagga meal prepared by your coffee tour hosts, which often includes local bananas and freshly brewed coffee.

Usambara Mountains

The Usambara Mountains are a hiker's paradise, offering a cooler climate and diverse ecosystems. The mountains are known for their biodiversity, including many endemic species of flora and fauna. Trekking through the lush forests and visiting local villages provides a glimpse into the life of the Usambara people. The viewpoints over the valleys and peaks are simply breathtaking.

How to Get There: The Usambara Mountains are about a 4 to 5-hour drive from Moshi, with public transport options available as well.

Travel Tip: Pack layers as the climate can change quickly in the mountains, and don't forget to charge your camera for the stunning vistas.

Where to Stay: The Mambo View Point Eco Lodge offers sustainable accommodation with incredible views and a chance to engage in community projects.

Where to Eat: The lodge has a restaurant serving organic food, much of which is sourced from their own gardens or local farms.

Chemka Hot Springs

Also known as Kikuletwa Hot Springs, Chemka is a hidden oasis located in the middle of a semi-arid landscape. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters are geothermally heated and provide a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation. The springs are surrounded by fig and palm trees, adding to the idyllic setting. It's a great place to unwind after a week of work.

How to Get There: The hot springs are about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from Moshi, and the journey includes a bumpy ride on a dirt road, adding to the adventure.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the springs before the crowds arrive.

Where to Stay: Accommodation options are limited near the springs, but Moshi offers a range of options, such as the comfortable Parkview Inn.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the springs, or head back to Moshi to try some local eateries like the Indoitaliano Restaurant for a fusion of flavors.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for digital nomads living in Moshi, providing a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you're looking for wildlife, cultural immersion, or just a peaceful spot to recharge, these weekend getaways are sure to enrich your Tanzanian adventure.