Moshi Waterfall & Coffee Tour with Hot Springs Lunch

Summary

Materuni waterfall hike with coffee making and Chemka springs

You’ll hike through lush rainforest to Materuni waterfall near Moshi, help roast and brew coffee with Chagga villagers, then unwind at Kikuletwa hot springs where warm water and laughter mix easily. Includes hotel pickup, lunch with fresh fruit, and time to swim or just soak up the local vibe — it’s a day for slowing down and really feeling Tanzania.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t know what to expect when we left Moshi that morning — just that I was curious about seeing Materuni waterfall up close. The drive out was quiet, except for our guide, Daniel, who kept pointing out little things: the way banana trees lean over the road, or how you can sometimes smell coffee roasting before you even see the village. There was this earthy scent in the air as we started walking, kind of damp but fresh. My shoes got muddy almost immediately (should’ve listened about hiking shoes), but honestly, it felt good to be out there.

The waterfall itself is loud — not in a bad way, just this constant rush that drowns out your own thoughts for a bit. We stood there getting misted while Daniel told us stories about the Chagga people and their traditions. He handed us some banana beer to try (I’ll admit I made a face — it’s definitely an acquired taste). Then came the coffee part: we helped roast beans over a fire and everyone took turns pounding them with these heavy wooden sticks. There was singing too; I tried joining in but mostly just clapped along. The coffee tasted different than any I’ve had back home — smokier maybe? Or maybe it was just being there that made it better.

Lunch was simple but filling — rice, vegetables, fruit so sweet it almost didn’t seem real. Afterward we drove to Kikuletwa hot springs. The water is this weirdly clear blue-green and warm enough that you don’t want to get out once you’re in. There were little fish nibbling at my toes (which made me laugh out loud — apparently they’re “giving you a free spa,” Daniel joked). Some locals were swimming nearby and offered us mango slices from their basket; I still think about how friendly everyone felt.

I guess what surprised me most wasn’t the scenery (though yeah, Kilimanjaro peeking through clouds is something else), but how relaxed I felt by the end of the day trip from Moshi to Materuni waterfall and Chemka hot springs. It’s not fancy or rushed — just slow moments strung together with good company and new tastes. If you go, bring an open mind…and maybe an extra towel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Materuni waterfall, coffee, and hot springs

• Pick up from hotel early morning
• Drive to Materuni village
• Hike to Materuni Waterfall
• Swim at waterfall pool (weather permitting)
• Join coffee making process and cultural activities
• Enjoy lunch and fresh fruits at Materuni
• Drive to Kikuletwa (Chemka) Hot Springs
• Relax, swim, and enjoy drinks at hot springs
• Return to hotel or airport in late afternoon

Top questions

How long does the Materuni waterfall & coffee tour take?

The full day trip usually lasts around 8-9 hours including travel time from Moshi.

Is lunch included on the Materuni waterfall tour?

Yes, lunch with fresh fruits is included after the coffee experience at Materuni village.

Can I swim at Kikuletwa hot springs?

Yes, swimming is encouraged at Kikuletwa (Chemka) hot springs if weather allows.

Are hotel pickups available for this day trip?

Yes, hotel or airport pickup and drop-off are included in Moshi or Arusha areas.

What should I bring for the Materuni waterfall hike?

Bring hiking shoes, swimwear for the hot springs, a towel, and casual clothing suited to weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but does involve some walking on uneven ground.

Do I need cash for entry fees or drinks?

No extra cash needed; all entry fees and drinks (beer/soft drinks) are included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation with hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, all entry fees and taxes covered upfront, hands-on coffee making with Chagga locals at Materuni village followed by a traditional lunch with fresh fruits, plus plenty of time to relax or swim at Kikuletwa hot springs before heading back in comfort — drinks like beer or soda are also part of it.