Arusha to Moshi: The Road Between Two Mountains

Travellers use this road constantly: to start or finish a Kilimanjaro climb, to connect safari and mountain, or to reach the airport. It is a straightforward journey, and the mountain views make it one of the pleasanter transfers in the region.

Here is how to plan it well.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Highway

The road runs east from Arusha, skirting farmland and small settlements, with Mount Meru behind you and Kilimanjaro ahead if the cloud lifts. It passes close to the airport that serves both towns before continuing to Moshi. The tarmac is good, and traffic is moderate to heavy with trucks and buses. Read the Arusha gateway guide for the town you are leaving.

When Views Are Best

Early morning and late afternoon often give the clearest views of Kilimanjaro, because cloud builds during the day. If you want a photograph, ask your driver to pause at a safe viewpoint. Do not rely on seeing the summit, since weather changes quickly.

Using the Road for a Climb

Climbers often move from Arusha to Moshi before the trek, where pre-climb briefings and gear checks take place. Read the Kilimanjaro climbing guide, routes compared and how to get to Kilimanjaro to plan your timeline. Build in a rest day before the climb if you can.

Combining Safari and Mountain

Some travellers go on safari first and climb afterwards, while others climb first and relax on safari. Each has trade-offs for fitness, altitude and tiredness. See best time and altitude sickness for advice, and the northern circuit safari for the wildlife side.

Going On Towards Mkomazi

From Moshi, the same highway continues towards the Pare Mountains and the park described in Arusha to Mkomazi. That makes Moshi a convenient overnight stop on an east-bound trip.

Moshi Town and What to Do There

Moshi is a relaxed town at the foot of Kilimanjaro, with cafes, markets, coffee farms and waterfalls nearby. If you have a free afternoon before or after a climb, a coffee tour or a walk in the foothills makes a pleasant change from driving. The town is also a practical place to sort gear, rest and meet your climbing team. Take care with your valuables as in any busy town, and ask your hotel or operator for suggestions on local guides and activities. A night here can break the journey nicely between Arusha and Mkomazi. Travellers who finish a climb in Moshi often like to stay an extra night to rest tired legs, wash clothes and share stories over a long dinner before flying home. If you plan to continue on safari afterwards, tell your operator early so that transfers, luggage storage and any gear hire can be arranged without last-minute stress. Many climbers also leave a bag of clean clothes at their hotel, which makes the return feel very welcome.

Practical Tips

Allow extra time for the airport if you are catching an international flight, because traffic can slow the road. Keep documents and medications in your hand luggage, and carry water. Your driver will advise on departure times.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team