Introduction: Infants should be exclusively breastfed for a period of six months and thereafter receive complementary foods with continued breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond. Optimal breastfeeding practices especially exclusive breastfeeding are beneficial to both the mother and the infant. The breast milk provides infant with all the nutrients needed for growth and development in line with protecting them against infections like pneumonia and increase intelligence quotient (IQ). To the mother it decreases the risks of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer. In most developing countries the prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) 0-6 months is still low, including Tanzania (41%) with limited information on the barriers to EBF practices. Objective: To determine the effects of socio-cultural beliefs and mother’s perceptions in exclusive breastfeeding practices in Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region. Methods: This was a qualitative case study that was conducted between May 30th and June 24th, 2016. It included the Key stakeholders with the potential to provide information about EBF policies and practices. Face to face interview was conducted using a well-structured questionnaire that was both in English and Swahili languages. Additional information was obtained through literature search. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results were presented into themes. Results: The mothers showed to have little knowledge of EBF but they knew the importance of EBF to their children and to themselves as well. The knowledge was obtained from their mothers and from the health professionals. The major reasons that hindered EBF practices from being successful despite the knowledge that the mothers had was a perception that ‘the Infants do not get satisfied with only breast milk’ and social cultural beliefs. Lack of support from family, health professionals and community also decreased EBF practices. Partner and family members played a huge role in the mother’s choice to exclusively breastfeed. Conclusion: By providing women with proper knowledge regarding EBF and giving them all the support they need during the breastfeeding period as well as addressing the socio-cultural beliefs and perceptions that prevent the mother from exclusively breastfeeding her child for 6 months, these women will be able to EBF successfully for the recommended period of time.