Discover one of Tanzania’s most charming day trips with this 1 Day Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour from Moshi — an immersive adventure that combines natural beauty, local culture, and authentic Tanzanian hospitality.
Nestled at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Materuni village is a hidden paradise just a short drive from Moshi town. This full-day experience takes you through lush green hills, scenic coffee farms, and one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Kilimanjaro region.
Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts, this tour offers a refreshing escape and a genuine taste of rural life in Tanzania.
Duration: 1 Day (Full-Day Tour)
Start/End: Moshi Town
Destination: Materuni Village (Kilimanjaro Region)
Activities: Hiking to the waterfall, coffee-making experience, cultural interaction
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Best For: Couples, Families, Solo Travelers, and Small Groups
Visit Materuni Village, home to the Chagga people
Hike through lush banana and coffee plantations
See the stunning Materuni Waterfall — over 90 meters high
Learn traditional coffee processing and roasting with locals
Enjoy a delicious Chagga-style local lunch
Capture breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro (on clear days)
Immerse yourself in authentic village life and culture
Your day begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Moshi. A friendly, professional guide will greet you and brief you about the tour. The drive to Materuni Village takes approximately 45 minutes, offering beautiful views of the Kilimanjaro countryside.
As you climb gently into the highlands, you’ll pass through small villages, banana groves, and coffee farms — a peaceful glimpse into rural Tanzanian life.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by the Chagga community, known for their warm smiles and rich culture. Your local village guide will introduce you to the day’s activities and the traditions of this lush mountain village.
The hike to Materuni Waterfall begins just outside the village and takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour each way, depending on your pace. The trail winds through scenic hillsides filled with banana trees, coffee plants, and tropical vegetation.
Along the way, your guide will share stories about the local culture, farming practices, and the importance of the waterfall to the Chagga people.
As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder until the magnificent 90-meter waterfall appears — cascading down a cliff into a refreshing natural pool below.
Take your time to admire the beauty, snap some photos, or even dip your feet in the cool, clear water. On a sunny day, you might catch a glimpse of a rainbow forming in the mist!
Tip: Bring swimwear and a towel if you’d like to swim in the pool at the base of the falls.
After the hike, return to the village for a hearty local lunch prepared by the Chagga women. Expect delicious home-cooked meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Typical dishes include:
Rice or ugali (maize meal)
Banana stew
Beans, vegetables, and meat or chicken
Tropical fruits for dessert
This lunch is more than just a meal — it’s a taste of the Chagga culture, enjoyed in a warm and communal atmosphere.
Next, experience one of the highlights of the tour — the Materuni Coffee Experience.
Materuni village is famous for producing 100% Arabica coffee, grown organically on the fertile slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. You’ll be guided through the entire traditional coffee-making process, from bean to cup:
Harvesting: Learn how ripe coffee cherries are handpicked from the trees.
Processing: Watch how locals wash, peel, and ferment the beans using age-old methods.
Drying & Grinding: Try your hand at roasting the beans over an open fire and grinding them using a traditional mortar and pestle — while singing local Chagga songs!
Brewing: Finally, brew your own cup of fresh organic coffee — rich, aromatic, and truly Tanzanian.
This interactive experience gives you a deeper appreciation of the effort and craftsmanship behind every cup.
After a day full of hiking, laughter, and learning, it’s time to say farewell to your Chagga hosts. Your guide will drive you back to Moshi, arriving in the late afternoon.
You’ll carry home not just coffee and photos, but lasting memories of authentic Tanzanian hospitality and natural beauty.
Materuni is the last Chagga village before entering the Kilimanjaro National Park. It lies about 15 km from Moshi town, at an altitude of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level. The area offers sweeping views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding valleys.
The Chagga people have lived here for centuries, cultivating coffee and bananas while maintaining their traditions. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, waterfalls, cultural interactions, and eco-tours all in one place.
Materuni Waterfall is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different experience:
June – October (Dry Season): Clear skies, easy trails, and great Kilimanjaro views.
November – December (Short Rains): Lush greenery and fewer tourists.
March – May (Long Rains): Waterfall is at its fullest — perfect for photographers, though trails may be slippery.
For the best weather and visibility, visit between June and February.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Lightweight clothing (quick-dry if possible)
Rain jacket (weather can change quickly)
Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to swim)
Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
Refillable water bottle
Camera or phone for photos
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Moshi
Professional English-speaking guide
Village entry fees
Materuni waterfall hike
Coffee-making experience
Traditional Chagga lunch
Bottled water throughout the day
Tips for local guides (optional but appreciated)
Additional drinks or snacks
Personal purchases such as coffee beans or souvenirs
Transportation from Arusha (available at extra cost)
The cost of the 1-day Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour typically ranges between:
$60 – $100 per person (shared group tour)
$100 – $150 per person (private tour)
Prices vary depending on inclusions, group size, and pick-up location.
Proximity: Only 30–45 minutes from Moshi — perfect for a short getaway.
Combination Experience: Nature, hiking, culture, and coffee — all in one day.
Local Immersion: Engage directly with the Chagga people and their way of life.
Scenic Beauty: The lush landscapes and views of Mount Kilimanjaro are unmatched.
Authenticity: No tourist crowds — just genuine experiences in a peaceful setting.
This day trip is ideal for travelers who have limited time but still want to experience both Kilimanjaro’s natural charm and Tanzania’s cultural richness.
1. How difficult is the hike to Materuni Waterfall?
The hike is moderate — suitable for most fitness levels. The trail is about 2.5 km each way and includes some gentle slopes.
2. Can children join the tour?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly activity and children often enjoy the waterfall and coffee-making sessions.
3. Is swimming allowed at the waterfall?
Yes, but the water is quite cold — refreshing after the hike!
4. Do I need hiking experience?
No. The trail is easy to follow, and a local guide will assist you throughout.
5. Can I buy coffee to take home?
Absolutely! Freshly roasted Arabica coffee is available for purchase directly from the villagers.
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Experience the best 1-day Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour from Moshi — a full-day adventure featuring hiking, local culture, and traditional coffee-making on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The 1 Day Materuni Waterfall and Coffee Tour from Moshi is more than a simple excursion — it’s a journey through Tanzania’s natural and cultural heart. Whether you’re trekking to the breathtaking waterfall, savoring freshly brewed coffee, or sharing laughs with the Chagga people, every moment feels authentic and memorable.
This is the perfect short adventure to complement a Kilimanjaro climb or safari — a day of nature, flavor, and connection that captures the true spirit of Tanzania.
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
Both have their perks with Big Five national parks, the incredible Great Migration and that quintessential African experience we all dream of. Check out our article on Serengeti vs Masai Mara to help you decide.
They both have such different safari experiences! Tanzania offers Big Five game reserves on classic dusty desert plains, rather South Africa partners the Big Five animals with luscious winelands. Both are just as good, but it depends on your safari style.
That’s a tough one! Botswana is home to herds of elephants at Chobe and the sparkling Okavango Delta, and Tanzania has the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and Great Migration. Check out our article on Botswana vs Tanzania safaris to help you decide.
Tanzania is in general a safe, hassle-free country. However, like most places, you do need to take precautions and listen to your tour guide. It also pays to read our articles on ‘Things to know before going to Tanzania’.
A camera and binoculars are a must. You’ll regret it if you don’t take them! As for clothing, definitely pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember, Tanzania is an arid country so the days can get quite hot. Read more on what to pack for a safari in Tanzania in our travel magazine
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