Moshi is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Moshi?
You should plan to spend around $87 (TZS219,880) per day on your vacation in Moshi. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $35 (TZS89,164) on meals
- $18 (TZS44,573) on local transportation
- $75 (TZS190,317) on hotels
A one week trip to Moshi for two people costs, on average, $1,219 (TZS3,078,320). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$610
TZS1,539,160
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,219
TZS3,078,320
-
One Month
Per person
$2,612
TZS6,596,400
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,219
TZS3,078,320
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,438
TZS6,156,640
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,224
TZS13,192,800
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Moshi cost?
A one week trip to Moshi usually costs around $610 (TZS1,539,160) for one person and $1,219 (TZS3,078,320) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Moshi on average costs around $1,219 (TZS3,078,320) for one person and $2,438 (TZS6,156,640) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Moshi will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Moshi on average costs around $2,612 (TZS6,596,400) for one person and $5,224 (TZS13,192,800) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Moshi expensive to visit?
Moshi is a smaller place that appeals to a wide spectrum of travelers, featuring different styles, expenditure habits, and budget ranges. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
Moshi can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $40 (TZS95,458) per day, mid-range travelers spend $93 (TZS219,880) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $185 (TZS438,462) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Moshi.
Within Africa, Moshi is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Kruger National Park or Hermanus.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Moshi Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Moshi?
The average Moshi trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Moshi travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Moshi cost?
Moshi on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$16
(TZS40,310)
|
$38
(TZS95,159)
|
$80
(TZS201,080)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$8
(TZS19,500)
|
$18
(TZS44,573)
|
$34
(TZS85,173)
|
|
Food 2
|
$15
(TZS39,008)
|
$35
(TZS89,164)
|
$67
(TZS170,382)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$8
(TZS21,406)
|
$19
(TZS48,930)
|
$37
(TZS93,499)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$1-2
(TZS1,938-5,813)
|
$2-5
(TZS4,429-13,286)
|
$3-10
(TZS8,463-25,388)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Moshi, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $40 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Thankfully, Moshi features plenty of hostels, such as We Travel Hostel, Rafiki Backpackers & Guesthouse, and Mountain Bike House. At hostels like this, you can find economical dorm beds and a great social atmosphere, although amenities might be quite sparse.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Those traveling to Moshi often aim to see the major attractions, museums, and noteworthy landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $93 per person, per day.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you envision a trip that covers everything with high-end amenities and top-tier service, be ready for a daily expense near $185. Enjoying nicer hotels, dining at acclaimed restaurants, participating in extravagant activities, and using taxis or private drivers to navigate the destination will require a premium budget. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Tour to Materuni waterfalls, coffee tour & Kikuletwa hot- springs - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Moshi
Hotel prices in Moshi can really fluctuate, especially between budget and luxury options. Expect higher costs during peak season, when rates climb from an off-season average of $47 up to around $88. From $23 for budget options to $190 for luxury hotels, there's something for everyone. Hostels, particularly dorms, are typically cheaper. Book early or travel in the low season for better prices.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Moshi for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $75 (TZS190,317). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $38 (TZS95,159) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Moshi? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Moshi include:
- Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel starting at $80
- Stella Maris Lodge starting at $95
- More Than A Drop starting at $39
Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of , can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.
Transportation Budget in Moshi
Unfortunately, Moshi does not provide a solid public transit network.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $18 (TZS44,573) per person, per day, on local transportation in Moshi. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Moshi is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$18
TZS44,573
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Kilimanjaro Airport Private Transfer from/to Moshi for $49 details
- Private Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Moshi for $47 details
- Private Kilimanjaro Airport Transfer to or from Tanzania for $55 details
How much does it cost to go to Moshi? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Moshi will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Moshi
Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Moshi can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Moshi is $35 (TZS89,164) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$35
TZS89,164
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Moshi is around $38 (TZS89164) per person, with previous travelers spending from $17 to $72. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Moshi are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $11
- Lunch: $6 to $15
- Dinner: $11 to $26
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Although Moshi might be considered a small town, you'd be surprised by the variety of restaurants to choose from. From local Swahili-style food to Indian and Italian cuisine or even a combination of different styles, there is a world of food to be found in Moshi. But perhaps one of the best ways of experiencing local life is to sample Swahili dishes. You will find things like pilau – spiced rice with vegetables and/or meat/fish, mishikaki – grilled meat skewers, or ndizi nyama – a beef stew with bananas and vegetables. In Moshi, the 'trekking capital' of Tanzania, you may find travelers from all over the world, but also food from all over the world. Enjoy!
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Opt for a water bottle instead of constantly buying drinks. It's not only convenient but also eco-friendly.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Moshi, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Private Traditional Cooking Class. For $70 details
- Kili View Tanzanian Cooking Class for $26 details
- Traditional Tanzanian Cooking Class in Moshi with a Local Family for $78 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Moshi
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Moshi typically cost an average of $19 (TZS48,930) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$19
TZS48,930
The main sight in this area is Mt Kilimanjaro and the natural beauty around it. This is the primary point of interest and is what draws the majority of visitors to the region, but there are other things to see as well.
The town market can be fun to visit, even if you’re not interested in buying anything. It can be a fun and interesting glimpse into the culture of the area and is a good way to meet some locals too.
There are many religious institutions to see, most notably the mosque near the center of town. You can also visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery located opposite the magistrate's court. It is also interesting to visit the former German administration office located between Kilimanjaro Co-operative Bank and BP petrol station on Mawenzi Road/Nyerere Road. You can still see the old military camp metal hanging pillar used for Germans and natives who broke German military law.
There are several smaller communities outside of the main town of Moshi that are worth taking a look around as well.
Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is the obvious reason for being in Moshi. Safaris are also essential, as well as a visit to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Lake Manyara National Park and Arusha National Park are within a fairly easy distance, too.
Honey Badger Lodge and Safaris is a hotel, campsite, lodge and safari company. This is a family run place with an excellent swimming pool, bar area and children's play area. They can organize all your local tours and safaris, including anything ranging from a night of local drumming and food to climbing the mountain or seeing the national parks.
Cultural trips to Maasai villages are very worthwhile and informative. Although most of the villages are not completely authentic, it does give you an idea and information of native life.
Day trips to Marangu Waterfalls are often fun, you can stand underneath the waterfall, even jump off one and go swimming. Day trips to Lake Nyumba ya Mungu can also be interesting, lots of local fishing culture, aloe vera plantations and sugar cane plantations. There is also a snake park and camel riding center nearby.
A nice way to explore destinations in Moshi is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Plantation Half Day Tour for $37 details
- Full Day Private Hiking Tour to Kilimanjaro Mountain for $250 details
- Chemka hot springs day tour for $97 details
Nightlife Budget in Moshi
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $3.51 (TZS8,857) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Moshi per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$3.51
TZS8,857
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Travel cost data last updated: Nov 28, 2024
Traveling in Moshi
Moshi
Moshi is a town in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border. It’s known as a gateway to Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro. Trails run up the mountain's cloud-ringed, snow-capped dome, through alpine forests and meadows home to elephants and leopards. The noticeably clean capital of the densely populated Kilimanjaro region sits at the foot of Mt Kilimanjaro and makes a good introduction to the splendors of the north. It's a low-key place with an appealing blend of African and Asian influences and a self-sufficient, prosperous feel, due in large part to its being the center of one of Tanzania's major coffee-growing regions. Virtually all visitors are here to climb Mt Kilimanjaro or to recover after having done so. Yet there’s much more to do, including cultural tours and hikes on the mountain’s lower slopes.
Neighborhoods & Around
Downtown
Downtown Moshi has all the makings of a traditional East African city – bustling marketplaces, rushing rivers, distant mountains and bumpy dirt roads – but there's one thing that sets it apart from the rest: the people. To fully experience the people of Moshi, head to the busy, bustling marketplaces downtown. It's the central meeting place for local residents, whether they're selling goods or gabbing away.
Soweto
Has many more expensive homes and is also home base for a large European volunteer organization. There is the FalconCrest Hotel and Pub, as well as the Scorpion Pub for a night out. There is a good market near the Scorpion Pub.
Shantytown
An area of relative wealth. Several restaurants are located out here as well as a few hostels and hotels.
Majengo
A significantly worse off, more impoverished area than main Moshi.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.