Rau Forest Nature Walk Itinerary

Distance from Arusha: ~80 km (~1.5–2 hours drive)
Location: Moshi, near Mount Kilimanjaro
Recommended Start: 7:00 AM – 7:30 AM from your hotel in Arusha

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM | Pickup from Hotel

• Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Arusha after an early breakfast.

• Depart for Rau Forest Reserve, located on the outskirts of Moshi Town.

• Enjoy beautiful views of Mount Kilimanjaro (weather permitting) along the drive.

• Carry with you:

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent

  • Binoculars and camera

  • Water and light snacks

9:30 AM – 10:00 AM | Arrival at Rau Forest

• Arrive at the Rau Forest entrance and meet your local forest guide or community ranger.

• Receive a short briefing on forest conservation and the walk itinerary.

• Learn about the area’s history — Rau Forest is one of the few remaining natural lowland forests at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM | Guided Nature Walk

• Begin your guided forest walk through lush green canopies, tall trees, and peaceful trails.

• Your guide will point out various plant species, butterflies, monkeys, and birds that inhabit the area.

• Spot the famous giant fig tree, over a century old — a favorite for photography.

• Keep an eye out for black and white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys swinging between branches.

• Enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature — a perfect escape from the busy city.

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Picnic Lunch

• Stop at a shaded area or near a clearing for a picnic lunch.

• Relax and take in the serene atmosphere.

• Optional visit to a nearby village for a short cultural encounter.

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Community & Conservation Experience

• Visit the local community project that helps conserve Rau Forest.

• Learn how eco-tourism supports reforestation and provides income for local families.

• You may get the chance to plant a tree — a symbolic gesture for conservation travelers.

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Drive Back to Arusha

• Depart from Rau Forest and head back toward Arusha.

• Optional stop in Moshi town for coffee, snacks, or souvenirs before returning.

• Enjoy scenic views of farmlands, banana plantations, and mountain landscapes.

4:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Drop-off at Hotel

• Arrive back at your hotel in Arusha.

• End of tour — a day filled with nature, learning, and relaxation.

Tips for Visitors

1. Best time to visit: Morning hours (8 AM – 11 AM) when wildlife is active.

2. Bring a rain jacket, especially during March–May and November.

3. Respect forest rules — no littering or loud noises.

4. Ideal for eco-tourists, photographers, and birdwatchers.