About

Cosy and safe – awarded “Best Hostel in Tanzania 2015 & 2016” (Hostelworld) – that’s Rafiki Backpackers & Guesthouse. The name rafiki means friend in Ki-Swahili and as such you shall feel from arrival to departure and beyond (if you wish!). Since February 2012, we welcome globetrotters, adventurers, mountain climbers and volunteers from all around the world in our petit 12 rooms budget accommodation in Moshi Tanzania. Rafiki Backpackers & Guesthouse provides rooms for any budget and any traveller: From mixed dormitory rooms (4 and 6) to private triple, double, twin and single rooms, we got you covered.
Located in the green, idyllic neighbourhood of Rau on the outskirts of Moshi, you can easily reach the town center within a 25 minutes walk or 5 minutes taxi drive. The choice is yours!

We offer free wi-fi and free pick-up service from the city center on arrival. Opposite to our place you can find the restaurant and bar Uhuru Museum, where you can eat a lot for little money and chat the night away (over a cold drink or two!) with fellow travellers. A backpackers’ favourites: Free breakfast (07:30 to 10:00am) for the perfect start into your vacation day. The communal living room, with its sofas, TV / DVD, books exchange, computer corner and board games, invites you to linger and relax.

Other pay services are our airport transfer, towel rental and Kilimanjaro treks, safaris and day trips around Moshi. You can book the tours directly with your booking via email or at the front desk on arrival.

House Rules

Check In

14:00 - 23:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Credit Cards Not Accepted
  • No Curfew
  • Taxes Included
View House Rules

Facilities

  • Free Breakfast
  • Free Parking
  • Free WiFi
  • Bicycle Parking
  • Airport Transfers
  • Luggage Storage
  • Tours/Travel Desk
  • Currency Exchange
View all facilities

Reviews

8.9Fabulous(146)
  • Value for Money
    10.0
  • Security
    10.0
  • Atmosphere
    8.0
  • Cleanliness
    9.0
  • Staff
    10.0
  • Location
    7.0
  • Facilities
    8.0
Summary of traveller reviews

Rafiki Backpackers & Guesthouse in Moshi offers a welcoming atmosphere with exceptionally friendly and helpful staff. Guests appreciate the convenient location, the lovely rooftop terrace, and the complimentary breakfast. Some recent feedback mentions occasional issues with hot water and room service.

Stayed in Jul 2025
9.4
X
Xenia
Female, 25-30, Belgium
Had A very nice stay, The staff was Friendly & helpful, location is perfect. They arrange a driver if you need one. Next door you have a lovely place to have your breakfast (free) or dinner (pay). Only there was no hot water in the shower. All over a very lovely place to spend time in Moshi !
Stayed in May 2025
9.1
A
Anonymous
Couple, 25-30, USA
We stayed in a private room and really enjoyed our time here! We loved the rooftop terrace, free breakfast, & helpful staff. It’s a bit far from town but we actually enjoyed being away from the busy downtown and aggressive vendors. Super comfy bed, clean facilities, no AC but ceiling fan was nice. Hot water is hit or miss. We were here during the rainy season but the restaurant next door seems like it would be super fun vibe when more travelers are around. Asante sana to the kind staff!
Stayed in May 2025
6.6
M
Misja
Female, 18-24, Denmark
Great hostel overall! We had a really good stay here, but a couple of things could have been better. They didn't mention anywhere that there's a pool—we only found out because we saw it on their Instagram. It would be great if that was included in the listing. Also, we stayed for a full week and didn't receive any room service during that time. Just something to be aware of!
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Location

Uru Road, Moshi, Moshi, Tanzania
0.9km from city centre