Moshi to Materuni Waterfalls: Coffee Tour & Village Walk

Chagga coffee making, village trails and Kilimanjaro’s highest waterfall

You’ll follow a local guide from Moshi into Materuni village for hands-on Chagga coffee making, then hike through lush hills to swim at Kilimanjaro’s tallest waterfall. Expect muddy trails, fresh-brewed coffee by the riverbank, and plenty of laughter with your group: a day full of small surprises you’ll remember later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour

• Pick up from hotel in Moshi
• Drive to Materuni village
• Visit coffee farm and learn process
• Roast and prepare coffee Chagga style
• Hike 30 minutes to Materuni Waterfalls
• Swim in waterfall's cold water

The experience

The first thing I noticed in Materuni village was the sound: water rushing somewhere close but hidden, mixed with kids’ laughter and the low hum of people talking in Swahili. Our guide, Joseph, waved us over to a little clearing where he handed me a handful of raw coffee beans. They felt rough and dry in my palm, nothing like what I imagined. We learned how the Chagga roast them: over an open fire, with everyone singing (badly, in my case). The smell changed everything. Suddenly it was warm and earthy, like rain on soil after a long dry spell.

I didn’t expect the walk to Materuni Waterfalls to be so green. Ferns everywhere, banana trees drooping under their own weight: one of those places where you can’t tell if it’s about to rain or just always this damp. The path got muddy fast. Joseph pointed out wild ginger growing along the trail (I tried a bit, it burned my tongue). When we finally heard the waterfall up close, it was loud enough that we had to shout over it. Ninety meters straight down: honestly, standing there made me feel small in a good way.

We all dared each other to get in the water. It’s freezing, like actual mountain melt, but somehow that made it better? My teeth chattered so hard I thought I’d chip one, but I couldn’t stop laughing. Lunch after that was simple rice and beans with some kind of spicy sauce, I never caught the name, and hot coffee brewed right there by the riverbank. Li laughed when I tried to say “asante” properly. Probably butchered it but no one seemed to mind.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Moshi, all entry fees for both the waterfalls and coffee experience, hands-on time at a local Chagga coffee farm with tastings, plus a traditional lunch before heading back in the afternoon.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (15 to 80 years) · Under 15: can't be included in the booking

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Chinese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical level

Operated by KLM Safaris

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian and Chinese.

How long does the Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Tour from Moshi take?

It’s a half-day trip including transport from Moshi, coffee tour, hike, and lunch.

Is swimming allowed at Materuni Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim at the base of Materuni Waterfall. Bring your swimwear.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes hotel pickup from Moshi, all entry fees and taxes, plus lunch.

How difficult is the hike to Materuni Waterfalls?

The walk is moderate. Trails may be muddy but most travelers can manage it.

Do you visit a real coffee farm on this tour?

Yes, you’ll visit a local Chagga coffee farm and participate in roasting and tasting.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch is included after visiting Materuni Waterfalls.

Are guides local on this tour?

The tour is led by local guides familiar with Chagga culture and area trails.