Overview of the Day Trip to Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Plantations

• Let's go to an unforgettable day trip with Zayla Tours to explore the lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Materuni Village, nestled on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. This immersive experience takes you to the stunning Materuni Waterfalls, one of the tallest and most picturesque waterfalls in Tanzania, where you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant greenery and tranquility of the Kilimanjaro region. The day continues with a visit to the Materuni Coffee Plantations, where you will be introduced to the fascinating world of Tanzanian coffee production. This journey offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history, providing you with a deep connection to the local Chaga people who have called this area home for generations.

• Materuni Village is just a short drive from Moshi town, yet it feels like a world apart. This is a place where time slows down, and the rhythms of daily life are dictated by the seasons and the harvests. As you walk through the village, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals who are eager to share their knowledge and traditions with visitors. The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the Materuni Waterfalls, a majestic cascade of water that plunges over 80 meters into a crystal-clear pool below. The hike to the waterfall takes you through verdant rainforests, across small streams, and along trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. This experience is not only about witnessing the beauty of nature but also about understanding the delicate balance between the environment and the people who live here.

• The second part of the day introduces you to one of Tanzania’s most cherished exports—coffee. You’ll visit the Materuni Coffee Plantations, where you will learn about the entire process of coffee production, from the bean to the cup. The Chaga people have been growing coffee in this region for centuries, and their expertise is evident in every step of the process. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in the traditional method of coffee processing, which includes roasting and grinding the beans by hand. The day concludes with a tasting session, where you can savor the rich, aromatic flavors of freshly brewed Tanzanian coffee. This day trip is perfect for those who wish to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Tanzania in a single day, making it a highlight of any visit to the Kilimanjaro region.

Day Itinerary for the Day Trip to Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Plantations

1)  Morning; Arusha to Materuni Village

Your adventure begins with a morning pick-up from your accommodation in Arusha around 7:00 AM. The drive to Materuni Village takes approximately 2.5 hours, passing through the bustling town of Moshi before ascending the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the history and culture of the Chaga people, as well as the unique geography of the region. Upon arrival in Materuni Village, you’ll be welcomed with a brief introduction to the area and its significance. The village itself is a picture-perfect representation of rural Tanzanian life, with traditional thatched huts, terraced farms, and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

After the introduction, you’ll embark on a guided hike to the Materuni Waterfalls. The trail is moderately challenging, but accessible to most visitors, and takes you through lush, tropical vegetation. The hike is an opportunity to observe a variety of native plants, birds, and small animals, as well as to learn about the local flora and fauna from your guide. As you approach the waterfall, you’ll hear the roar of the water long before you see it, building anticipation for the spectacular sight that awaits you. The waterfall itself is a stunning 80-meter cascade that plunges into a cool, clear pool below—a perfect spot for photos, and for those who wish, a refreshing dip.

• Major Activities: Scenic drive from Arusha to Materuni Village, guided hike to Materuni Waterfalls, nature walk through the rainforest.
• Meal Plan: Breakfast at your accommodation in Arusha, snacks provided during the hike.
• Extra Activities: Photography at the waterfall, bird watching, and a short visit to a local farm to see how traditional crops like bananas and yams are grown.

 2)  Afternoon: Coffee Tour at Materuni Coffee Plantations

After your visit to the Materuni Waterfalls, you’ll return to the village for a traditional Chaga lunch, which will be served at a local homestead. The meal typically includes a variety of local dishes such as banana stew, beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared using traditional methods. This is a chance to taste the flavors of the region and to enjoy a meal in a communal setting, just as the local people do. Following lunch, you’ll begin the second part of your day—a visit to the Materuni Coffee Plantations. The coffee tour starts with an explanation of the coffee-growing process, from planting to harvesting. You’ll walk through the plantation, where you can see the coffee plants up close and learn about the different varieties of coffee that are grown here.

The highlight of the coffee tour is the hands-on experience of processing the coffee beans. You’ll participate in the traditional method of roasting the beans over an open fire, using a large, flat pan. The aroma of roasting coffee will fill the air, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. After roasting, you’ll grind the beans using a large, wooden mortar and pestle—a process that requires some effort but is incredibly rewarding. Once the beans are ground, you’ll brew a fresh cup of coffee right on the spot, allowing you to taste the fruits of your labor. The rich, bold flavor of Tanzanian coffee is something that every coffee lover should experience at least once.

• Major Activities: Traditional Chaga lunch, guided coffee plantation tour, hands-on coffee processing experience, coffee tasting.
• Meal Plan: Traditional Chaga lunch in Materuni Village, coffee tasting.
• Extra Activities: Purchase freshly roasted coffee beans to take home, explore the village to see traditional Chaga homes, or engage in a cultural exchange with the local people through stories and songs.

3)  Late Afternoon: Return to Arusha

As the afternoon winds down, you’ll have some free time to explore the village or relax in the peaceful surroundings. You may choose to visit a local craft shop where you can purchase handmade souvenirs, such as beaded jewelry, woven baskets, or traditional Chaga textiles. Alternatively, you can take a short walk to one of the viewpoints in the village for a final look at the stunning Kilimanjaro landscape before heading back to Arusha. Your return journey will take you through the same scenic route, giving you one last chance to appreciate the beauty of the region. You’ll arrive back in Arusha in the early evening, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation.

This day trip to Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Plantations is a perfect combination of nature, culture, and relaxation, offering a unique insight into the lives of the Chaga people and the natural wonders of the Kilimanjaro region. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a coffee enthusiast, or simply someone looking to experience the beauty of Tanzania, this itinerary promises a day of discovery and delight.

• Major Activities: Scenic drive back to Arusha, optional village exploration, return to your accommodation.
• Meal Plan: Light snacks and refreshments on the drive back to Arusha.
• Extra Activities: Stop at a local market on the way back to Arusha to buy fresh fruits, spices, or other local products. End your day with an optional visit to a café in Arusha for another cup of Tanzanian coffee or a refreshing drink.

Our pricing structure is generally calculated on a per-person sharing basis, unless otherwise indicated. Please note that the listed prices are approximate and may be subject to adjustment:

All rates depend on availability and may change without prior notice. If you prefer single accommodations, additional fees may apply. We encourage you to reach out for a customized quote or connect with our Tanzania Safari Experts to receive the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information

Inclusions:

• Round-trip transportation from Arusha to Materuni Village.
• Professional, English-speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to Materuni Waterfalls.
• Guided hike to the waterfall.
• Traditional Chaga lunch in the village.
• Coffee plantation tour and coffee tasting.
• Bottled water throughout the day.

Exclusions:

• International and domestic flights.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal items (souvenirs, additional drinks, etc.).
• Tips for guides and drivers.
• Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as purchasing coffee or other local products).
• Any other meals and drinks not specified in the meal plan.