Discover Lushoto

Lushoto combines a distinctive history with excursions to nearby sights. Several colonial-era buildings in the town are still in use; tours visit historic sites, markets and scenic destinations. There are different options for planning your trip: a Lushoto Town Tour takes two to three hours, while a trekking tour from Lushoto lasts two to three days.

City History and Market Visit

Colonial-era buildings in Lushoto that are still in use include the former District Office and the historic post office dating from 1913. The surrounding valleys of the Usambara Mountains are also home to several substantial European-style houses from the plantation era. You can therefore encounter the region’s architectural history both in the town and in the valleys.

The two- to three-hour Lushoto Town Tour visits old buildings from the German colonial period and introduces the town’s history. On Sundays and Thursdays, it can be combined with a visit to the colorful Lushoto market. If this combination is important to you, check the current schedule in advance. This way, you can plan the historic town tour and market visit together rather than treating them as separate activities.

Hikes to Historic Sites

A hike through Magamba Rainforest passes two historic sites on the way back: a royal village of the Kilindi, the Washambaa ruling clan, and an old German bunker dug during the First World War. Both stops are part of the same route, but each offers a different historical perspective.

For a longer cultural trip, a two- to three-day trek from Lushoto leads via Rangwi Monastery to a Kilindi village and the seat of a Shambaa sub-chief. There, visitors can learn more about the history of the Usambara chieftaincy. Another multi-day trek from Lushoto includes an overnight stay at Rangwi Monastery. Confirm the current arrangements before your trip.

The royal village of Kwembago is also a destination reached by walking uphill from Lushoto. There, you can learn more about the cultural history of the traditional ruling clan, the Kilindi. The Town Tour focuses on buildings in the town, while the routes to Kwembago and through Magamba lead to historic sites in the surrounding area.

Excursions from Soni and Summit Destinations

A hike from Soni passes through the villages of Shashui and Kwemula to Kwamongo Peak, also known as “God’s Peak.” The peak is known for its multicolored butterflies and views of Lushoto and the Handeni Plains. Check local conditions before setting out. An excursion from Soni to Lushoto also includes a stop at Soni Waterfalls on the way back.

The Maweni Spice Tour is a hike from Soni to Maweni Farm, where a garden picnic is planned. Ask in advance about the tour’s current availability. The Usambara Farm Tour can be extended, if desired, with a hike to the 2,100-meter-high Vuli Peak. If you plan this extension, confirm the route and elevation locally.

Local Products and Getting There

At the Catholic Mission of the Montessori Sisters in Ubiri, you can learn about, sample and buy locally made cheese, wine and jams. Ask before visiting whether these products are currently available.

Lushoto can be reached via the town of Mombo on the main highway between Arusha and Dar es Salaam. Public transport to Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Moshi and Tanga is available daily. As schedules and connections can change, check the latest service information before setting off.

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