Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour — Hike, Swim, and Taste Kilimanjaro Coffee
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness; involves 45-minute uphill hikes each way and some uneven terrain.
Overview
Walk from the slopes of Kilimanjaro into a rainforest that leads to a thundering glacier-fed fall, then learn how Chagga farmers turn cherries into the region’s brightest coffee. This full-day tour blends a brisk hike, a cold swim and a hands-on coffee lesson.
Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour — Hike, Swim, and Taste Kilimanjaro Coffee
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You step off the dusty minibus into a cool breath of rainforest that seems to come straight down from Kilimanjaro. A narrow track threads between banana leaves and coffee shrubs; the air smells of wet earth and bright green fruit. Your guide points to a glossy leaf and tells a Chagga story — a practical lesson about a plant that fixes a fever or sweetens a brew — and the walk becomes a lesson as much as a path.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear grippy shoes
Trail is rooty and occasionally slippery; trail runners or light hiking boots will keep you steady on the 45-minute approach.
Prepare for cold water
The pool is glacier-fed and very cold — swim only if comfortable and warm up quickly afterward with coffee and dry layers.
Bring cash for coffee purchases
Buy roasted beans or a small bag of cherries from the village to support local farmers — small denominations preferred.
Respect local customs
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting homes and always ask before photographing village residents.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Colobus monkey
- African blue monkey
History
The Chagga people have inhabited Kilimanjaro’s slopes for centuries, developing terraced agriculture and distinctive coffee-processing techniques taught in village lessons.
Conservation
Water here originates from Kilimanjaro’s glaciers — support local conservation by avoiding single-use plastics, staying on trails, and buying coffee directly from villagers.
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Adventure Hotspots in Moshi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light hiking shoes or trail runners
Grip for muddy roots and rocky sections on the approach and return.
Light rain shell
Afternoon cloud bursts are common on Kilimanjaro’s slopes; a packable shell keeps you dry.
all specific
Microfiber towel
Quick-dry towel for a brief dip at the waterfall and for wiping down afterward.
Reusable water bottle
Hydrate on the walk — bottled water is often provided, but refillable bottles reduce waste.