Moshi: Rau Forest (Hiking or Bike Tour)

Moshi: Rau Forest (Hiking or Bike Tour)

Exploring Rau Forest offers a refreshing escape from the bustling streets of Moshi, giving travelers a chance to connect with nature and observe East Africa’s diverse wildlife. This tour, offered by Adventure Bats, combines gentle trekking or biking with a chance to see primates, birds, and historic trees, all within a lush, protected environment.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are the tranquil forest trails, the opportunity to see black and white colobus monkeys, and the chance to enjoy a lunch in a canopy setting. The tour’s affordability — at just $100 per person — packs in a lot of value for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour lasts up to 8 hours including transportation, so it’s a full day’s commitment, especially if you’re not used to long outdoor excursions. The flat trails and bike paths are suitable for most fitness levels, making it accessible for families, older travelers, or those who prefer a relaxed pace.

This experience is perfect for travelers interested in wildlife, birdwatching, and scenic nature, who also appreciate a blend of gentle activity and cultural highlights. If you’re seeking a peaceful retreat with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and a touch of local scenery, this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

• Accessible Nature: Flat, easy trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
• Wildlife Encounters: Chance to see colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, dik-diks, and a variety of birds.
• Historic Trees: Visit East Africa’s oldest Mvule tree, a significant natural landmark.
• Scenic Lunch Spot: Enjoy a fresh meal in a canopy-covered picnic area amid nature.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a peaceful hike or a scenic 25 km bike ride.
• Transport Included: Pickup and drop-off service from Moshi (and Arusha) makes logistics simple.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Rau Forest Tour

Rau Forest is a protected, closed canopy forest located just outside Moshi. Its dense greenery creates an ideal habitat for numerous animal species and a tranquil escape for visitors. As soon as you step onto the trail, you’re greeted with a lush environment, where the sounds of chattering monkeys and singing birds fill the air.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour typically lasts around 8 hours, including transportation time. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Moshi — or Arusha, if preferred — and transported to the forest. The journey itself offers glimpses of local life, featuring rice paddies, sugarcane plantations, and even the historic Moshi railway station.

Once within Rau Forest, your guide will lead you along fairly flat, easy-to-navigate trails. The terrain’s simplicity makes this an excellent choice for families or those with limited mobility. Along the way, you’ll see key natural highlights such as the Milk Spring Water, the Rau River, and the Oxystigma msoo tree, which is also notable for its botanical significance.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

A major draw of the tour is the chance to observe black and white colobus monkeys, known for their striking coats and agile leaps through the treetops. Guides often point out the blue monkeys, which are equally engaging, especially as they play and forage. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of hornbills, spoonbills, and other species that call Rau Forest home.

Guests have remarked, “Seeing the monkeys in their natural habitat was a highlight,” and others have appreciated the birdwatching opportunities, which are abundant thanks to the forest’s rich biodiversity.

The Oldest Mvule Tree and Other Natural Landmarks

One of the more unique features of this tour is the visit to the oldest Mvule tree in East Africa. This gigantic tree has stood for centuries, offering a tangible link to the region’s natural history. It’s a popular photo spot and a moment to appreciate the longevity of nature.

You’ll also pass by the Rau River, with its tranquil waters, and the Milk Spring Water, which adds a poetic touch to the landscape. The dense canopy provides shaded spots for rest and exploration.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Rest in the Canopy

A highlight of the tour is the lunch in a canopy-covered picnic area. This setting provides a refreshing break, allowing you to enjoy your meal while surrounded by nature’s sounds. Many reviews mention the satisfaction of relaxing amid towering trees after a morning of walking or biking.

Hiking or Biking: Which Is Better for You?

The tour offers two ways to experience Rau Forest — a leisurely hike or a biking adventure.

Hiking

The hike is straightforward, with flat trails that allow you to take your time. If you enjoy walking and want a close-up experience of the forest, this option is ideal. It’s especially suited for families, older travelers, or those who prefer a relaxed pace. The hiking option typically lasts about 8 hours, including stops and lunch.

Biking

For those craving a bit more speed or a different experience, the bike tour covers approximately 15.5 miles (25 km) and takes about 6 hours, not counting transport. The route takes you through rice fields, sugarcane plantations, and the railway station, offering a broader view of the local landscape.

Guests who have done both say the bike ride offers a dynamic perspective on the environment, with some noting, “The bike tour was a fun way to cover more ground and see the scenery from a different angle.”

Equipment and Support

If you opt for the bike tour, all necessary equipment is provided. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring a smooth ride and pointing out interesting sights along the way.

The Experience Provider: Adventure Bats

Adventure Bats has a reputation for well-organized tours with friendly guides. Their English-speaking guides are familiar with the local flora and fauna and help make the experience informative and engaging. Many reviewers praise the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff, which enhances the overall value.

Pricing and Value

At $100 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day out filled with wildlife sightings, scenic views, and cultural insights. Transportation, guide services, bike and equipment (if chosen), lunch, and water are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Compared to other regional tours, Rau Forest provides excellent value, especially considering the chance to see primates and historical trees without needing to venture into more remote or expensive parks. The flexibility of choosing between hiking and biking adds to its appeal, catering to different preferences and energy levels.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers who prefer a gentle, accessible activity. If you enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting, you’ll find Rau Forest rewarding. It’s also great for travelers looking for a mix of activity and relaxation, with the opportunity to enjoy a scenic lunch and take plenty of photos.

It’s important to note that this isn’t a high-intensity trek or a challenging mountain hike — instead, it’s a leisurely exploration perfect for a full day of nature appreciation.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Moshi, with options from Arusha, making logistics simple for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, including travel time and stops, whether you choose to hike or bike.

What is the terrain like?
Trails are flat and easy to navigate — suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The bike route is about 25 km long, with scenic views along rice fields and plantations.

What wildlife will I see?
Primarily black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, dik-diks, and various bird species like hornbills and spoonbills.

Can I do the bike tour if I’m not an experienced cyclist?
The bike equipment is provided, and the route is mostly flat, making it accessible even for less experienced riders.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, insect repellent, sun protection, and a camera. The tour provides water and a picnic lunch.

Final Thoughts

Rau Forest offers a peaceful, natural retreat just outside Moshi that’s perfect for wildlife watching, birding, and enjoying East Africa’s lush scenery. Whether opting for a relaxed hike or a scenic bike ride, you’ll get a taste of local flora and fauna, as well as insight into the region’s natural history.

This tour is particularly valuable for travelers who want an authentic, affordable experience with minimal logistical fuss. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors without the intense trekking associated with Kilimanjaro or other national parks, making it accessible for most visitors.

If your time in Tanzania includes a day in Moshi or Arusha and you’re craving some quiet, nature-filled moments, Rau Forest’s tour is a smart choice. It’s a balance of gentle activity, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty — all at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: