Rau Nature Forest Reserve
Rau Nature Forest Reserve is situated about 3km from Moshi Town in the Kilimanjaro region, nestled on the gentle south-facing alluvial slope on Mount Kilimanjaro. It spans an altitude between 750 and 765 meters, presenting a unique natural environment. The reserve is primarily characterized by groundwater forest, which includes a rich variety of vegetation types such as natural ground forest, swamp forest, and woodland forest.
Rau Nature Forest Reserve is famous for its rich biodiverse, hosting several large mammals, including the black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and Kirk’s dik-dik. Visitors can also encounter playful squirrels, colorful butterflies, dragonflies, antelopes, warthogs, milk spring water, and a variety of reptiles like the Nile monitor and lizards. The diverse ecosystem also houses species of bees including Apis mellifera Adansonia and stingless bees, as well as forest-dwelling snakes and frogs.
The forest features more than 71 varieties of native Tanzania and endemic trees, including the illustrious Kilimanjaro Mahogany and lovoa Swynnertonii. Notably, it houses the largest and oldest African teak (Milicia excelsa), locally known as the Mvule. Standing 51 meters tall with a diameter of 3 meters and an impressive volume of 360 cubic meters. This tree is estimated to be 200 years old. It is also used by traditional healers in nearby communities for its bark, used in various rituals and medical practices.
Rau forest is one is Tanzania’s rare groundwater forests, remarkably located near the rapidly in town of Moshi, yet it remains largely undiscovered by travelers and nature lovers. Surrounded for forest, visitors can also enjoy scenic views of rice plantations, often bustling with vibrant water birds, adding to the overall natural beauty of the area.
Tourist activities to do Rau Nature Forest Reserve
Nature walks
Nature walk is the main highlight of any Tanzania safari in Rau Nature Forest Reserve. This activity offers you the chance to explore the hidden gem of the forest on foot. This activity is a guided safari, where experienced armed rangers lead you to the forest the search for the forest dwellers up close. During your guided nature walks, you will have the chance to sight a variety of wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and unique and endemic plant species at a closer distance
Hiking experience
Visitors can choose between short and long hiking routes, which typically take around 5 to complete. The paths are adored with vibrant butterflies, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, squirrels, and a variety of birds, and insects, all set in towering trees. During your hiking tours, you will be treated to an astonishing atmosphere, while connecting deeply with nature. Hiking tours in the reserve aloe lead you to the scenic rice farms, offering stunning views of the Rua Forest, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Moshi town, making this a delightful activity at the Rau Nature Forest Reserve
Village and Rice Field Plantation
Discover the charm of rural life by visiting local villages and rice field plantations. You can interact with farmers, learn about traditional farming techniques, and witness the beauty of terraced rice paddies. This immersive experience offers a unique perspective on agricultural practices while fostering connections with the local community and appreciating their customs and lifestyle.
Cycling
Rau Nature Forest Reserve is the ideal place for cycling which offers a very good and spectacular environment for cycling and biking, it is amazingly beautiful to take a cycle in the beloved forest. Cyclists can take a route from Moshi town, traversing the forest to either Mandaka or Mabogini and then returning to Moshi. The trails offer a calm experience with minimal car and pedestrian traffic. This unforgettable journey can be accompanied by bird watching, plant viewing, photographing, butterfly watching, rice viewing, city viewing, and Mt. Kilimanjaro view
Tree Planting
Engage in a meaningful conservation effort by participating in tree-planting activities within the Rau Forest Reserve. This hands-on experience allows tourists to contribute to reforestation and ecosystem preservation. Planting trees not only supports biodiversity but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment, making it a rewarding and impactful activity that benefits both nature and the community.
Educational study
Rau Nature Forest Reserve boasts a rich biodiversity, characterized by high endemism of flora and fauna as well as significant water catchment values. This reserve serves as an ideal location for research and academic studies. The area is least researched therefore the students and other researchers from different parts of the world conduct their research in the Rau Forest reserve, especially in the fields of botany, zoology, hydrology, geology, ecology, and social science. Students from primary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities are warmly invited to carry out research on various topics, including forestry, ecotourism, history, beekeeping, and local culture.
Getting to
Rau Nature Forest Reserve is conveniently situated just 2 km from the entry gate of Moshi town. We offer this tour as a full or half-day trip. Transportation can be arranged in various ways, including local tuc tuc, by private taxi or bus, or you may choose to embark on this adventure as a bike tour allowing for a unique and enjoyable exploration of the reserve
