Day Trip to Rau Forest Reserve

Description

A day bike tour to Rau Forest Reserve Click to open side panel for more information offers an immersive escape from Moshi town, combining dense jungle trails with insights into local agriculture and colonial history. Most tours cover approximately 20–30 km over 6 to 7 hours and are suitable for anyone with basic cycling ability, as the terrain is largely flat.

Full-Day Itinerary

• Briefing and Setup: Meet your guide in Moshi to select your mountain bike and helmet. You’ll receive a safety briefing before heading out through the vibrant streets of Moshi.
• Sugarcane and Rice Fields: Cycle south toward the TPC sugarcane plantations. You'll pass through local villages like Mabogini, where you can stop at the rice paddies to see farmers at work and learn about traditional cultivation.
• Into the Rau Forest: Enter the closed-canopy Rau Forest Reserve Click to open side panel for more information . The air cools significantly as you ride under giant Mvule and Mahogany trees. Keep an eye out for Black-and-White Colobus monkeys and Blue monkeys in the treetops.
• Local Lunch: Enjoy a Tanzanian meal, often featuring (Lunch box), either at a picnic site within the forest or at the home of a local family in a nearby village.
• Sacred Sites and Springs: Explore deeper into the forest to visit the "Milk Spring," a site of cultural significance where locals make traditional wishes.
• Old Railway Station: Visit the historic Moshi railway station, a remnant of the German colonial era. It’s a popular spot to grab a cold drink and catch a view of Mount Kilimanjaro if the weather is clear.
• Return to Moshi: A final short ride brings you back to your accommodation to end the day.

Practical Information

• What to Bring: Closed-toe sneakers, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), insect repellent, and a light rain jacket.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; mostly flat off-road trails and paved village roads.

Important Note/s

What to budget extra for:

• Kayaking: small, human-powered boat, typically featuring a closed deck and a double-bladed paddle, designed for agility and speed.
• Tips (Optional): Standard gratuity for your guide/driver ($10–$20 per group).
• Personal drinks: Soda or beer at the lodge bar.

Quick Tips for Your Visit

• Footwear: Wear sturdy walking shoes or sneakers for the rocky descent; flipflops are not recommended for the hike.
• Gear: Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and binoculars if you enjoy birdwatching.
• Climate: It can be very hot mid-day, but the crater rim can get breezy. A light jacket is useful for the early morning or late afternoon.

FAQ

Suggested tip for guide is $30 - $40 total from the group