Materuni Waterfall
Materuni Waterfall in Materuni village is a beautifully lush area to visit on the outskirts of Moshi (it is actually the home of our Director, Ambrose- hence the name of the company!). Here you can really get to grips with the life of the local Chagga people- wandering through the village and passing their homesteads. Located in the picturesque foothills of Kilimanjaro, Materuni has managed to retain its authentic edge over some of the other tourist attractions as it is not one of the routes for climbing Kilimanjaro.
Materuni Village Day Tour
For your day trip you will have two options for transport between Moshi town and the village… For those who really wish to have the ‘real’ experience you can hop on a dala dala (the local minibuses), along with your guide and possibly a chicken or two! If you’d prefer to travel more quickly and comfortably you can choose to take a private car. Once you reach the village you will start your coffee tour at a traditional Chagga ‘shamba’ (farm). Here your guide will explain all aspects of the Chagga homestead including the other crops that they grow aside from coffee.
You will get to see how the coffee is produced- from picking the bean to roasting and then drinking a delicious cup yourself. Following your coffee tour you will then take a short hike (make sure to wear some good shoes as it can be muddy up there), passing through local villages to reach the waterfalls.
Here you will either have a picnic lunch box or arrive to a full spread of freshly cooked lunch prepared by your own safari chef. Following lunch you will have the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing (quite cold!) pools beneath the waterfalls. When you have had your fill of this beautiful place you can start walking back to where you will take the dala dala or your private car back to Moshi (reaching Moshi at approximately 4-5pm).
Materuni, the Chagga tribe’s home, is still a traditional tribal village. This lovely community is located 15 kilometers from Moshi Town and is the final village before entering the Kilimanjaro National Park.
Materuni Waterfalls Tour
Our English-speaking guide will pick you up in Moshi in the morning and transport you to Materuni Village. You’ll register at the village office when you arrive, and then your adventure can begin.
You’ll start by going to the waterfalls, which are about a 40-minute walk away. Your guide will tell you about the Chagga culture, village life, and the fauna and flora in the area as you travel. The views are incredibly beautiful, and with luck, you’ll be able to glimpse Kilimanjaro’s summit.
When you go to the waterfalls, you’ll notice that they’re over 80 meters tall. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to the pool at the bottom of the waterfall for a relaxing swim!
After taking in the beauty, you’ll make your way back to Materuni village with your guide for a traditional Chagga meal. You will also have the chance to try our local banana beer, which is not to be missed!
Materuni Coffee Trip
That isn’t all, though. After that, you’ll get the opportunity to try some coffee. You’ll learn how coffee is grown, dried, roasted, and processed in this section.
You’ll also be encouraged to participate in the coffee grinding process, which is customarily accompanied with Chagga songs and dances – a wonderful way to learn about the local culture. Before you say your goodbyes and head back to the airport,
You can savor the coffee you made and take in the views of the surrounding jungle on your way to Moshi in the afternoon.
Included in cost:
- Transportation with Driver/Guide During Safari
Lunch
Village Fees
The price does not include
Costs of a Personal Nature
Tips to your Driver/Guide During Safari
Alcoholic Beverages
Enquire This Tour
Related Day Trips
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Just 35km from Arusha (75km from Moshi) you can get out of the city and into the bush with this one day trip.
Materuni Waterfall
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Coffee and Waterfalls Day Trip Materuni village is a beautifully lush area to visit on the outskirts of Moshi
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Materuni Waterfall FAQs
1. What is Materuni Waterfall?
Materuni Waterfall, also known as Nambe Waterfall, is a stunning 80-meter waterfall located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, near the village of Materuni. It’s surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and coffee plantations, making it one of the most beautiful day-trip destinations from Moshi or Arusha.
2. Where is Materuni Waterfall located?
The waterfall is about 15 km from Moshi town and roughly 2 hours from Arusha. It lies in the Kilimanjaro region, close to the Chagga village of Materuni.
3. How do I get to Materuni Waterfall?
Most visitors book guided tours from Moshi or Arusha, which include transport, entrance fees, and a local guide. You can also reach the starting point by taxi or motorbike, but the road can be rough, especially during the rainy season.
4. How long is the hike to Materuni Waterfall?
The hike from Materuni village to the waterfall usually takes 30–45 minutes each way, depending on your pace. The trail passes through coffee farms, banana plantations, and forested paths.
5. Is the hike difficult?
The hike is considered moderate. While most of the path is easy, it can be muddy and slippery, particularly after rain. Proper footwear is highly recommended.
6. Can I swim at Materuni Waterfall?
Yes! The pool at the base of the waterfall is safe for swimming, though the water is refreshingly cold since it comes from Mount Kilimanjaro’s slopes.
7. What else can I do during a Materuni Waterfall visit?
Many tours combine the waterfall hike with a coffee tour in Materuni village. Visitors can learn how the Chagga people grow, harvest, and roast coffee—often with hands-on participation and tasting included.
8. What is the best time to visit Materuni Waterfall?
Dry season (June–October, January–March): Best for clear trails and stable weather.
Wet season (April–May, November): Trails are muddier, but the waterfall is at its most powerful.
9. What should I bring?
Sturdy hiking shoes
Swimwear and towel
Light rain jacket (in case of showers)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Drinking water and snacks
Camera for the stunning views
10. How much does it cost to visit Materuni Waterfall?
Entrance fees are usually around $10 per person, paid to the local village. Guided tours from Moshi or Arusha typically range from $40–$80 per person, depending on group size and inclusions.
11. Is Materuni Waterfall suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the hike, but it’s best for kids who are comfortable with uneven and sometimes slippery terrain. Families often choose guided tours for added safety and support.
12. How long is a Materuni Waterfall day trip?
From Moshi, the trip usually lasts 4–6 hours including transport, hiking, swimming, and optional coffee tours. From Arusha, expect a full-day excursion.
13. Is Materuni Waterfall crowded?
It’s less crowded than Chemka Hotspring or other popular sites near Moshi. Mornings and weekdays are usually quieter.
14. Why visit Materuni Waterfall?
Because it offers a perfect combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation: a scenic hike, a breathtaking waterfall, and authentic Chagga coffee-making traditions.
