Materuni Waterfall Hike & Coffee Tour

The Experience

Materuni Village sits on the lush lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, about 14 km from Moshi at 1,700 meters above sea level. This unspoiled paradise is renowned for its organic Arabica coffee and vibrant Chagga culture. As one of the last traditional villages bordering Kilimanjaro National Park, it offers breathtaking views of valleys, rivers, dense forest, and, on clear days, the peak of Kilimanjaro.

Materuni is home to the Chagga people, an indigenous community that has lived along the mountain slopes for generations. Known for their warmth and hospitality, the Chagga maintain a lifestyle deeply rooted in agriculture and small-scale trade, with coffee cultivation playing a central role in their daily lives and traditions.

The journey to Materuni Village starts with a scenic drive from Arusha (2 hours) or Moshi (30 minutes), followed by a short, bumpy road to the village. Upon arrival, you’ll register at the village office before starting your guided adventure.

A highlight of the tour is the hike to Materuni Waterfall, a spectacular 80-meter cascade hidden within a lush tropical forest. The walk takes about 40–60 minutes along a moderately easy trail that winds through banana farms, valleys, and local homesteads. Along the way, your guide will share insights into Chagga culture, village life, and the region’s unique flora and fauna. At the waterfall, you can relax, take photos, or even enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool natural pool at its base.

Afterward, you’ll slowly make your way back to Materuni Village, where a traditional Chagga lunch awaits. You’ll also have the chance to taste local banana beer—an experience you don’t want to miss!

The experience continues with an interactive coffee tour, where you’ll learn the entire coffee journey—from cultivation and harvesting to roasting and brewing. You’ll even get to help grind the coffee beans, a traditional practice done while singing and dancing to Chagga songs—a fun and authentic way to connect with the local culture. Once the coffee is ready, you’ll get to enjoy a cup of your very own brew!