Rau Forest Reserve Day Tour

Rau Forest Reserve – Day Tour with Origin Ventures and Safaris

A Living Forest Near the Foothills of Kilimanjaro

Nestled just outside Moshi, Rau Forest Reserve offers a peaceful, immersive escape into nature. Unlike traditional game drives, this experience is done on foot—giving you an intimate look at Tanzania’s biodiversity, culture, and ancient woodland.

With Origin Ventures and Safaris, your guide will walk you through towering trees, local farmlands, and hidden springs. Expect to see black-and-white colobus monkeys, birds, butterflies, and learn about the Chagga people who live in harmony with the forest.

Walking tour in Rau Forest
Colobus monkeys in forest
Local cultural experience near Moshi

Why Choose the Rau Forest Experience?

  • Eco-Friendly Nature Walk: Discover a different side of Tanzania—on foot, not by car. Embrace slow travel and connect deeply with nature’s rhythm.
  • Close to Moshi: Only 15 minutes from the city center, Rau Forest offers a serene escape without long transfers. It’s the perfect half- or full-day activity before or after a Kilimanjaro trek.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, Sykes' monkeys, vibrant butterflies, forest antelopes, and over 80 bird species—including hornbills and sunbirds.
  • Cultural Exchange: Walk through rice paddies alongside local Chagga farmers. Learn about traditional farming practices, local irrigation techniques, and ancestral forest beliefs.
  • Accessible to All: Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, family, or senior adventurer, this low-impact walk suits all fitness levels and requires no special gear.
  • Photographer’s Paradise: Towering fig trees, filtered forest light, curious primates, and colorful traditional attire make every step a frame-worthy moment.
  • Sacred Forest Significance: Parts of the forest are considered sacred by local communities. Learn about traditional ceremonies, tree worship, and the spiritual connection between people and nature.
  • Support Local Conservation: Your visit directly contributes to forest preservation efforts and supports the livelihoods of community-based guides and farmers.
  • Quiet and Untouched: Far from tourist crowds, Rau Forest is peaceful, authentic, and untouched—an ideal retreat for those seeking silence and reflection.

Rau Forest Reserve – Sample Day Tour Itinerary

Connect with nature and local life in one inspiring day trip from Moshi. Here's how your day unfolds:

08:30 AM – Pick-up from Your Hotel in Moshi

Meet your guide and transfer a short distance to the Rau Forest trailhead. Introduction and safety briefing.

09:00 AM – Begin Nature Walk

Walk through natural forest paths, observing monkeys, birds, butterflies, and rare tree species.

10:30 AM – Cultural Visit

Visit a local rice farm, interact with Chagga farmers, and learn about traditional irrigation systems.

12:00 PM – Picnic Lunch by the Forest Edge

Enjoy a packed local lunch under a shaded tree canopy while listening to birdsong and forest sounds.

01:00 PM – Continue Exploration

Walk toward the natural spring and ancient fig trees where rituals are sometimes held. Great spot for photos and reflection.

02:00 PM – Return to Starting Point

Conclude the walk and enjoy fresh seasonal fruit before returning to your hotel.

02:30 PM – Drop-off at Hotel in Moshi

End the experience with new knowledge and a peaceful memory of Tanzania’s natural side.

Included in this tour package

  • Guided walking tour with a knowledgeable local guide who knows the forest intimately.
  • Official entrance fees to Rau Forest Reserve, supporting conservation and community efforts.
  • Nutritious picnic lunch and clean bottled drinking water provided during your forest adventure.
  • Comfortable hotel pick-up and drop-off service within Moshi town included in the package.
  • Insightful cultural visit to local rice farms with a chance to meet Chagga farmers.
  • All national and local government taxes and tourism fees fully covered.
  • Optional photo stops at scenic forest points and rice paddies for memorable moments.

Excluded from the Tour

  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal items
  • Additional drinks/snacks
  • Travel insurance

Book your Tour

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