Tanzania is a top destination for safaris, wildlife viewing, and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Many travelers visit the northern cities of Moshi and Arusha as part of their Tanzanian adventures. But should you visit both cities or just one?
This travel guide compares Moshi vs. Arusha to help you decide where to go in Tanzania. We’ll look at the key factors like attractions, transport, walkability, and nightlife. Read on for tips from a seasoned Tanzania traveler!
Overview of Moshi and Arusha
Moshi and Arusha are two of the most popular tourist towns in northern Tanzania. They act as gateways to the country’s famous national parks and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Moshi lies at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, close to the Kenyan border. It’s set in the lush foothills of the mountain, surrounded by coffee plantations. Moshi is the hub for Kilimanjaro climbs.
Arusha sits about halfway between Moshi and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. It’s near Mount Meru and Arusha National Park. Arusha is the starting point for most Tanzanian safaris.
The two cities are only 60 miles (100 km) apart, making it easy to visit both on one Tanzania trip. Moshi to Arusha by public bus takes around 2 hours.
Major Attractions and Activities
The biggest factor in choosing between Moshi and Arusha is the attractions and activities you want to do.
Moshi’s Attractions
Moshi’s biggest draw is its proximity to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain. Most Kilimanjaro climbing routes start from the Moshi area.
Popular day trips from Moshi include:
- Hiking in Kilimanjaro National Park
- Swimming in Chemka Hot Springs
- Visiting Materuni Waterfalls
- Coffee plantation tours
Moshi also has vibrant markets and panoramic views of Kilimanjaro on clear days.
Arusha’s Attractions
Arusha is the gateway for Northern Tanzania safaris to:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Manyara National Park
You can also take day trips from Arusha to:
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Maasai markets
- Hot air balloon safaris
Arusha has the largest markets in northern Tanzania, including the Maasai market.
Overlap of Attractions
While Moshi offers great access to Kilimanjaro and Arusha to safaris, there is some overlap in their attractions. For example, you can do day trips to waterfalls and hot springs from Arusha. Safaris do operate from both cities too.
So focus on your main interests, but know you have flexibility in the day tours available from each place.
Transport and Accessibility
To reach Moshi and Arusha, you can take flights, buses, or trains depending on where you’re coming from.
Flying In
There are two main airports serving the region:
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is equidistant from Moshi and Arusha, about a 1 hour drive to each city. It offers international connections.
- Arusha Airport (ARK) is just 20 minutes from Arusha but 2 hours from Moshi. Only domestic flights operate from here.
So flying internationally, either city works well. For domestic flights, Arusha is more convenient.
Buses and Trains
Public buses and trains connect Moshi and Arusha to other parts of Tanzania like Dar es Salaam. While affordable, overland journeys can be very long.
For example, the train from Arusha to Dar es Salaam takes over 17 hours! For this reason, domestic flights are recommended when possible.
Walkability and Getting Around
Once in Moshi or Arusha, you’ll need to get around each city.
Arusha has a small, walkable downtown area. But many lodges and hotels lie outside the city center, requiring taxis or tuk tuks to reach them.
In contrast, Moshi is much more compact. Most tourist accommodations are clustered close together. It’s easier to walk around Moshi compared to Arusha.
Both cities have plenty of tuk tuks and taxis available to get around. Be sure to negotiate the price before getting in!
Nightlife
Tanzania is not known for its raging nightlife scene. But Arusha does have more late-night options compared to the smaller, quieter Moshi.
In Arusha, popular nightlife spots include:
- Via Via
- Masai Camp
- Lively Lady
- Johnny’s Bar
While generally safe, take a taxi back to your hotel or hostel at night.
Moshi has a more limited nightlife selection, including:
- Red Stone
- Pub Alberto
So if you want to experience Tanzanian nightlife, Arusha is the better choice. But Moshi offers a more relaxed vibe for unwinding in the evenings.
Where to Stay in Each City
Both cities offer a range of accommodations from hotels to hostels.
Arusha has lodges spread around the outskirts of town. Stay near the city center if you don’t want to rely on taxis. Popular areas include Clocktower and Central.
Moshi has compact clusters of hotels and hostels convenient for walking. Popular areas include Machame Road close to eateries and nightlife.
Do your research to pick the right area for your budget and interests.
Choosing Between Moshi vs. Arusha
With their different attractions, transport options, and vibes, deciding where to visit takes some thought:
- If doing a safari, Arusha is the best base.
- For climbing Kilimanjaro, stay in Moshi where the treks begin.
- To access domestic flights onward, Arusha’s airport is better connected.
- For a walkable base, choose Moshi over Arusha.
- To experience nightlife, Arusha has more options.
- Stay in both if you have the time! It’s easy to travel between them.
Focus on your main interests and ideal location when choosing. Or slow travel and spend time discovering both cities like many travelers do.
Top Things to Do in Moshi
If you decide to visit Moshi, here are some top highlights you won’t want to miss:
- Watch the sunset views of Mount Kilimanjaro from your hotel.
- Wander through the busy Barafu Street Market to shop for souvenirs.
- Hike partway up Mt. Kilimanjaro on a day trip to Machame Gate.
- Relax in the natural hot springs pools at Kikuletwa Spa.
- Sample delicious grilled meats and local beers at Manjas BBQ.
- Tour a coffee plantation to learn about Tanzania’s famous coffee.
- Visit the waterfalls and swim at Lake Chala on day trips from the city.
Top Things to Do in Arusha
If Arusha is on your itinerary, make sure to include:
- Shop for crafts and souvenirs at the Maasai Market held several times a week.
- Tour the Cultural Heritage Center to learn about Tanzania’s tribes.
- Spend an afternoon on a safari in nearby Arusha National Park spotting wildlife.
- Enjoy sundowners on the Shanga House rooftop bar.
- Dig into Indian dishes at the Blue Heron restaurant.
- Walk around the lush Arusha National Park and climb Mount Meru.
- Meet giraffes up close at the Giraffe Centre conservation site.
Experience the Best of Tanzania’s North
Both Moshi and Arusha offer easy access to incredible Tanzanian adventures. Choosing between them depends on your interests, budget, and time.
Many travelers opt to visit both during their Tanzania trip. Slow travel through the north gives you time to properly experience all the highlights. Plus the two cities are easy to travel between by road or air.
Hopefully this guide has helped compare Moshi vs. Arusha and provided tips for planning where to stay on your Tanzanian travels. With so many amazing things to do in this part of the country, you really can’t go wrong!
Next Steps After Reading This Guide
- Use the guide to help choose where to base yourself in Tanzania. Focus on your main interests.
- Research hotels, hostels, and lodges in your chosen city. Lock in accommodations.
- Book day trips and activities from your city like hiking Kilimanjaro or going on safari.
- Arrange needed flights, buses, or car rentals to get to and between the cities.
- Pack proper gear like hiking boots and binoculars for your adventures!
- Keep handy the Swahili phrases you’ll need to get around Tanzania.
Now that you’re armed with this Moshi vs. Arusha comparison, get ready to have the trip of a lifetime in Tanzania. Feel free to reach out with any other questions as you plan this once-in-a-lifetime journey!
