Overview
Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip
Old Moshi Mambori Waterfalls & Village Experience is one of the most enriching Kilimanjaro day trips, blending scenic hikes, Chagga culture, and history. Located on the fertile southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Old Moshi (Kidia) is a historic settlement that combines natural wonders with deep cultural heritage. The highlight of this day trip is a guided trek to Mambori Waterfalls, a scenic cascade surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The walk offers moderate fitness challenges, rewarding visitors with cool waters, birdlife, and a serene atmosphere, making it an excellent stop for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Beyond the waterfalls, the experience extends into the history of the Chagga people through a visit to the Mangi Meli Museum. This site commemorates Chief Mangi Meli, executed by German colonizers in 1900 for resisting colonial rule, and provides an eye-opening account of Tanzania’s past. Travelers also explore Kidia village, where they can meet locals, see banana and coffee farms, and witness everyday traditions. Together, the waterfalls, museum, and cultural encounters make this trip a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, history, and authentic community life.
Route itinerary options
Click to expand the various itinerary options for this route. Itineraries indicated as * Recommended * are chosen for their duration, acclimatization and good route profile.
Day 1 - Moshi (or Arusha) to Old Moshi to Moshi (or Arusha)
You start from your lodge (07:30am to 10:00am) and drive into the Old Moshi area around Kidia / Kiborloni. Your day today can include 3-4 of the following activities (all time permitting): Mambori Waterfall hike (medium fitness), village walk, Vanilla/Coffee/Spice/Banana farm tour, German historical sites & boma visit, famous Chagga Chief Mangi Meli historical Museum visit, old Lutheran stone built church visit, blacksmith visit, Kitimbirihu holistic place visit and Traditional food cooking tour. Around your activities and at lunch time you will have a local traditional lunch provided for you freshly made in the village. Later in the afternoon you will be dropped back to your lodge.
- Approx driving distance: 0.5-1 hour from Moshi / 2-3 hours from Arusha (one way) / 1-3 hours back to lodge
- Expected game drive: None
- Activities usually included: Full day village fees with up to 4 guided activities
- Optional extras: Pre or post tour accommodation, extra activities
- Meals included: Traditional hot lunch
- Commonly seen animals: Unknown
- Occasionally seen animals: Unknown
- Rarely seen animals: Unknown
Overnight (optional)
(Speak to a tour consultant for your specific options)
Price, includes & add-ons
Click to see price indication for the various group options and group sizes avaialble. You can always request a custom quote: contact us.
Price per person (USD $)
1 passenger (from/to Moshi)
from $155 per person*2 passengers (from/to Moshi)
from $120 per person*3 passengers (from/to Moshi)
from $110 per person*4 passengers (from/to Moshi)
from $100 per person*5 passengers (from/to Moshi)
from $95 per person*6+ passengers (from/to Moshi)
from $85 per person*Start and/or end the tour in Arusha
from $100 per vehicle*Start and/or end the tour at Kilimanjaro Airport
from $50 per vehicle*Scheduled group (shared departure)
Not available* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Private treks are with their own dedicated crew, equipment and transfers not shared with other hikers.
Green season discount
10% off*For day trips starting from 15 March 2026 to 31 May 2026 and 01 November 2026 to 15 December 2026.- * Special offers are only applicable to new bookings and valid only at the time of confirming an itinerary. All numbers after discounts will be rounded to the nearest whole number. Please check with your sales consultant if offers can be combined.
Standard packages usually include
- Enjoy a scenic guided hike with local experts who share insights into Old Moshi’s natural beauty, Chagga traditions, and the history surrounding Mambori Waterfalls.
- All entry fees, permits, and community contributions are pre-arranged, ensuring smooth access to Old Moshi, Mambori village, and the historic Mangi Meli Museum.
- Your day trip includes first aid kits, trained guides, and emergency response planning, giving you peace of mind while exploring the waterfalls and village.
- All taxes, VAT and village / activity fees as applicable.
- All National Park DAY conservation or park entry fee as applicable to the planned itinerary
- All National Park NIGHT concession or Wildlife management Area fees as applicable to the planned itinerary
- Specially modified 4x4 Land cruiser with pop up roof, radio calls and English speaking driver-guide, charging ports (Type G socket) and luggage space for a soft bag, max 20kg per person or maximum available space in vehicle. Note that safari vehicles have very limited overall luggage space.
- 1.5lts per person, per day of bottled drinking water
- Basic camping safaris include a tent, mattress, camping equipment and a personal cook (sharing for even numbered groups + 1 single tent for odd numbers)
- Special camping safaris include a tent, mattress, camping equipment and a personal cook (sharing for even numbered groups + 1 single tent for odd numbers) with a private portable camping shower and camping toilet for use at special campsites.
- Budget, medium and high range safaris include full board (or half board / bed and breakfast if indicated) accommodation (sharing or single with a supplement)
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips / gratuities.
- Beverages such as soft drinks, alcohol etc.
- International flights. Learn More about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn More about insurance.
- Visas. Learn More about visas.
- Items of a personal nature.
- Metal & hard plastic water bottles, water bladders etc.
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Although our standard package can be more than enough for most, we appreciate many desire certain comfort upgrades and add-ons and our tours can be customized to include as much or as little as you need.
Airport transfers
Celebration items
Premium Menu
Pre & Post Accommodation for your Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip
Stay in eco-lodges, guesthouses, or boutique retreats in Moshi town before or after your Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip, offering comfort and cultural charm.
Chanya by Ardhi Africa, Moshi
- Style of lodge: Mid-range garden lodge with pool
- Location: Kiboriloni, Moshi town
- Perfect with: Maasai cultural tours, Kilimanjaro day hikes, northern safari circuits
Chanya by Ardhi Africa is a calm base near Moshi ideal for pairing Maasai cultural visits with Kilimanjaro adventures. Expect leafy gardens, a welcoming pool, and hearty meals between tours.
Bristol Cottages, Moshi
- Style of lodge: Boutique garden hotel with pool
- Location: Central Moshi, near Aga Khan Road
- Perfect with: Maasai cultural tours, Kilimanjaro day hikes, northern circuit safaris
Bristol Cottages is a relaxed Moshi base with leafy gardens and a pool ideal for pairing Maasai cultural visits with Kilimanjaro adventures.
Simba Farm Lodge, Sanya Juu
- Style of lodge: Working farm lodge & country guesthouse
- Location: Sanya Juu, West Kilimanjaro (near Londorossi Gate)
- Perfect with: Maasai cultural tours, Shira Plateau hikes, Lemosho treks, biking
Set on rolling farmlands with views of Kilimanjaro and the Maasai Steppe, Simba Farm Lodge is a relaxing base to pair Maasai cultural visits with Shira Plateau hikes and northern circuit safaris.
Machare Coffee Lodge, Mweka
- Style of lodge: Coffee estate lodge & eco-guesthouse
- Location: Mweka, foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Perfect with: Kilimanjaro treks, coffee tours, village walks
Machare Coffee Lodge sits on a lush organic estate below Kilimanjaro, offering peaceful stays with coffee tours, farm-to-table meals, and stunning mountain views perfect after a trek or cultural day trip.
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel
- Style of lodge: Modern boutique hotel
- Location: Moshi town, foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Perfect with: Kilimanjaro climbs, day trips, safari extensions
Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel is a boutique hotel in Moshi, with a rooftop bar offering sweeping views of Kilimanjaro, comfortable rooms, fitness & spa facilities, and a convenient base for treks or excursions.
Gran Melia, Arusha
- Style of lodge: Luxury resort hotel
- Location: Arusha city, at the foothills of Mount Meru
- Perfect with: Safari departures, Mount Meru excursions, spa & conference stays
Gran Meliá Arusha is a resort set on landscaped coffee & tea plantations with elegant rooms, spa, rooftop bar, and Mount Meru views ideal for unwinding or starting safaris.
Essential Information for Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip
Before your Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip, check key travel tips on visas, health, packing, and money to ensure a smooth, safe, and meaningful experience.
Travel Info for Tanzania
Which Airport to Choose?
Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & videos
Discover handpicked photos and videos of the Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls Day Trip, from scenic cascades and lush forests to village culture and Kilimanjaro views.
Why Book Your Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip with Shah Tours?
Book with Shah Tours for expert guides, authentic Chagga cultural experiences, and seamless support. With decades of Kilimanjaro day trip expertise, we deliver safe, affordable, and unforgettable adventures.
Since 1984!
Expert driver-guides
Tailor made itineraries
Comprehensive Safety Measures
All luxury levels
Frequently Asked Questions About Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip
Find answers to common questions about the Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls Day Trip. From the best time to visit and cultural highlights to hiking details and accommodation options, these FAQs help you plan a smooth and memorable experience.
Duration of the Old Moshi day trip
The Old Moshi Mambori Waterfalls day trip typically takes between 6 and 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day excursion from Moshi town. The itinerary usually includes the scenic hike to Mambori Waterfalls, a cultural exploration of Kidia village, and a visit to the historic Mangi Meli Museum. This allows travelers to enjoy nature, history, and culture in one enriching Kilimanjaro experience.
Fitness requirements for the hike
The Mambori Waterfalls hike requires a medium fitness level. Trails are uneven and sometimes steep, but most active travelers find them manageable with sturdy walking shoes. While not as challenging as Kilimanjaro treks, the path still offers a rewarding sense of adventure. Travelers should be prepared for 1–2 hours of hiking combined with cultural and museum visits, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced day trip.
Family-friendly aspects of the tour
Yes, children are welcome on the Old Moshi Mambori Waterfalls day trip, making it a family-friendly excursion. The hike is moderately challenging, so very young children may need extra assistance, but older kids often enjoy the adventure. The museum visit and cultural encounters in Kidia village are educational and engaging for all ages. Families can expect a safe, enriching day combining nature, history, and Chagga traditions.
Packing list for the waterfall trip
Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat for the Mambori Waterfalls day trip. A camera is recommended for capturing the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. A light rain jacket is useful, especially during the rainy season, as weather can change quickly in Kilimanjaro’s foothills. Packing snacks, swimwear, or a towel also adds comfort if swimming is possible at the waterfalls.
Swimming opportunities at the falls
Swimming at Mambori Waterfalls is sometimes possible, but conditions depend on the water levels and season. During the dry season, visitors may enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls. In the rainy season, currents can be stronger, so swimming may be unsafe. Your guide will always assess conditions and advise whether swimming is recommended, ensuring safety while enhancing the adventure experience.
Cultural highlights of Old Moshi
The Old Moshi Mambori Waterfalls day trip includes rich cultural encounters in Kidia village. Visitors can meet local families, walk through banana and coffee farms, and learn about Chagga traditions. The Mangi Meli Museum adds depth by telling the story of Chief Mangi Meli, a leader who resisted colonial rule. These experiences provide meaningful insight into Kilimanjaro’s heritage, blending local history, agriculture, and cultural life with natural exploration.
Getting to Old Moshi village
Old Moshi is located just outside Moshi town in Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro Region, easily accessible by road. Most tours include round-trip transport from Moshi or Arusha, ensuring a seamless experience. Travelers can expect a short drive of less than one hour from Moshi to Kidia village, where the trip begins. Guided transportation not only saves time but also enhances the journey with local insights and convenience.
Best seasons for visiting the waterfalls
The best time to visit Mambori Waterfalls is during Tanzania’s dry seasons: June to October and December to February. Trails are easier to hike during these months, and the waterfalls still flow beautifully after the rains. The lush greenery and clear skies make this an excellent period for photography and cultural interactions. Visiting during the dry season ensures both comfort and safety for hiking and exploring Old Moshi.
Food options during the trip
Many Old Moshi Mambori Waterfalls tours include meals, often in the form of a packed lunch or a freshly prepared local dish in the village. Meals typically feature Tanzanian staples such as rice, beans, vegetables, or plantains. Dietary requests can usually be accommodated with advance notice. Sharing a meal in Kidia village enhances the cultural immersion, allowing travelers to enjoy local hospitality while refueling after the hike and museum visit.
Historical importance of the Mangi Meli Museum
The Mangi Meli Museum is a key highlight of the Old Moshi day trip. It commemorates Chief Mangi Meli, executed in 1900 for leading resistance against German colonizers. Exhibits share the struggles and resilience of the Chagga people, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Kilimanjaro’s past. The museum offers powerful cultural and historical context, transforming the trip from a scenic hike into an educational and meaningful journey.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls day trip
The Old Moshi (Mambori) Waterfalls Day Trip can be combined with Kilimanjaro hikes, Materuni coffee tours, cultural village visits, or northern Tanzania safaris. Custom itineraries are available to suit your travel plans.
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My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
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Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 20267-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
(Translated by Google, see original)Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!Justine A25 July 2026Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026
