Nestled snugly beneath the majestic silhouette of Kilimanjaro National Park, Materuni village beckons with an irresistible charm—a hidden haven teeming with the scents of freshly brewed coffee and the symphony of cascading waterfalls. It’s the kind of place that whispers its allure to the intrepid souls seeking an offbeat adventure, a slice of authentic Tanzania that doesn’t always grace the usual traveler’s map.
Situated just 14km from Moshi and 95km from Arusha, this gem rests at an altitude of 1300 meters above the sea. For those traversing Tanzania, hopping between hiking escapades and safari adventures, Materuni stands as a tantalizing stop, a day-trip option that promises more than just sightseeing.
But hold onto your hat; this isn’t your run-of-the-mill day excursion. It’s a backstage pass to the heartbeat of local life—a chance to immerse yourself in an adventure unlike any other.
Prepare to be awed by a roaring waterfall, witness the magic of coffee-making unfold from seed to cup, and relish a feast of locally produced delicacies—all while basking in the rich tapestry of local customs and traditions. And if you’re craving more, why not amplify your day’s adventure by adding a dip in the rejuvenating Maji Moto hot springs?
So, get ready to dive headfirst into a day filled with flavors, scents, and memories that linger long after you’ve bid farewell to this uncharted corner of Tanzania.
Hiking to Materuni Waterfall
The adventure begins at Materuni village’s tour office, where local transport halts and experienced guides step in. For a serene experience, an early morning venture towards the waterfall is recommended to savor the tranquil atmosphere and dodge the crowds returning from their visits.
The trail winds through a picturesque landscape adorned with Chagga homesteads, banana groves, and a kaleidoscope of lush foliage. On clear days, the grandeur of Mount Kilimanjaro looms in the background, offering a striking vista. The trek itself involves navigating mini-valleys, traversing ridges, and crossing bubbling streams, allowing moments to delve into the surrounding flora and fauna.
Amidst this natural spectacle stands the revered Dracaena Afromontana, a plant steeped in significance for the Chagga community. The guide shares its cultural relevance—a symbol of seeking forgiveness. Folding a leaf of this plant signifies a heartfelt apology, left at the doorstep of the aggrieved. The receiver holds the power to accept or decline the apology by choosing to open or ignore the leaf—a fascinating tradition interwoven with the trek’s natural beauty and cultural tapestry.
The hike covers a distance of approximately 2.5 kilometers one way, ascending about 260 meters, usually requiring no more than 40 minutes. The manageable trail, even in rain, transforms from a muddy road to a single-track trail towards the hike’s conclusion. Comfort with uneven surfaces and a slight incline turns this adventure into a leisurely stroll.
Approaching the waterfall, its distant rumble hints at the impending sight. Locally known as Nambe, meaning “first-born,” this waterfall earns its name as the primary cascade descending from Mount Kilimanjaro. However, it’s commonly referred to as Materuni Waterfall, reflecting its spot within Materuni village, where the Materu tribe predominates.
The Materuni Waterfall comprises a series of cascades, with the main fall standing around 80 meters tall. The crashing water forms a mesmerizing spectacle as it plunges into a tranquil pool below. Seizing the opportunity, a dip in the pool offers refreshing relief on a scorching day before retracing steps along the same scenic route.
Sipping Banana Beer at a Forest Pub
Along the path leading to Materuni Waterfall, unexpected rustic charms emerge in the form of ‘forest pubs,’ a far cry from what one might envision as a typical bar. Nestled within the countryside, amid coffee bean fields and banana groves, these quaint traditional structures, their roofs adorned with banana leaf thatch, quietly blend into the landscape. With doors casually ajar, there’s little indication that these unassuming dwellings double as local watering holes.
During our visit, a gathering of locals sat in a circle within one of these establishments, sharing what we learned was the cherished local alcoholic beverage known as Mbege. This drink holds more than mere preference; it’s a social cornerstone and an integral part of Chagga culture. Whether at weddings, business meetings, or funerals, Mbege is the beverage of choice, often shared among those present. Typically, a group orders a couple of glasses, passing them around until more are needed.
Crafting Mbege is an arduous process traditionally managed by women:
First, a specific banana variety called ndizi ngombe (cow bananas) is carefully selected and left to ripen in a warm, dim environment. Once fully ripe, their skins are peeled, and the bananas are boiled in a large pot of water. Over six hours of simmering, the bananas transform from their original yellowish-white hue to a rich reddish-brown, signaling readiness. The mixture is then left to ferment outdoors for several days until white bubbles emerge atop its surface.
The fermented concoction is filtered, and a thick porridge made from finger millet flour and water is added to the strained liquid. A few quinine bark pieces join the mix, and after blending the millet and banana components, the mixture rests overnight.
Our serving arrived in a generous 1-liter plastic cup, emitting a fragrant banana aroma. However, its taste fell between wine and beer, with a pronounced sweetness from the bananas and a subtle bitter note courtesy of the quinine. Though it wasn’t to our liking, an amiable elderly lady gladly accepted the remainder.
Revealing the Artistry of Coffee Making
Next, brace yourself to delve into the intricate world of coffee. We’re heading into the verdant coffee fields of Materuni, where you’ll witness the precise steps taken to craft that flawless cup of coffee!
Coffee cultivation and processing
In this region of Tanzania nestled along the slopes of Africa’s tallest peak, the cultivation of Kilimanjaro coffee – both Arabica and Robusta – occurs amidst volcanic soil, mingling with banana trees. This distinctive blend imparts a crisp flavor and a delightful aroma to the beans. The rationale behind employing intercropping lies in the protective shade offered by bananas, shielding the coffee plants from intense sunlight and maintaining moisture levels. Additionally, the extensive root system of bananas contributes significantly by enhancing soil quality and facilitating nutrient circulation.
As the coffee cherries ripen at their own pace, skilled hands meticulously pluck only the ripest, fully matured ones. The beans then undergo a precise processing phase—extracting them from the cherries and subjecting them to fermentation and thorough washing to eliminate any lingering fruit residue. Post-processing, the beans are carefully dried to achieve the perfect moisture content. Spread out on expansive racks under the sun, this drying process takes six to eight weeks, delicately influenced by the whims of the weather.
Crafting your cup of coffee
Once your guide walks you through the above-mentioned process, the real excitement begins. You’ll dive into the hands-on tasks: peeling, sifting, roasting, grinding, and sipping, following each step in the spirited Chagga way—accompanied by lively singing and dancing. For the locals, coffee-making isn’t merely a chore; it’s a finely choreographed blend of nature’s elements, age-old traditions, and skilled craftsmanship.
The first step involves alternating turns, grasping a hefty wooden log to hand-pound the coffee beans in a wooden bowl, revealing the precious white seeds hidden beneath the husks. Next, in a basket meticulously woven from banana leaves, the contents of the mortar undergo a dance of flipping, spinning, and shaking, separating the husks and eliminating powdery residue from the crushing process.
Following this, the beans find themselves in a pot over a modest flame for roasting. As they swirl within, the rich, earthy aroma of the roasting beans fills the air, turning them into the familiar dark-brown hue. Any lingering impurities or charcoal fragments are skillfully removed through yet another round of sifting in the banana-woven basket.
Back in the mortar and pestle, the beans undergo their final transformation into fine dust. This powdered essence is then poured into a pot of vigorously boiling water, resulting in a brew that is eagerly collected in a large jug, ready to be shared among the group. It’s a moment to relish the aroma, savor the flavors, and appreciate the journey encapsulated within every sip.
Indulging in Authentic Chagga Cuisine
Transitioning from the coffee tour, you’ll be treated to a delightful Chagga meal, reflecting the rich and diverse local cuisine. The traditional Chagga fare is an assortment of vegetables, grains, and fruits indigenous to the region—cassava, sweet potatoes, plantains, beans, and an array of leafy greens. Bananas take center stage in many Chagga dishes, forming the cornerstone of their diet.
Among the notable dishes, machalari stands out—a savory banana and beef coconut stew that’s deeply rooted in Chagga culinary heritage. Another hearty delicacy is mtori, a robust stew combining tender meat—often beef or goat—with mashed green bananas, resulting in a thick, flavorsome concoction. Then there’s makukuru or mangararu, a dry mixture of maize and beans complemented by smoked, nearly ripe bananas, forming a satisfyingly mashed blend.
Eager to delve deeper into the Chagga culture? You can find more insights about this fascinating community in our dedicated post here.
Plunging into Maji Moto Hot Springs
To fully seize the day, consider venturing to another aquatic paradise: Maji Moto, also referred to as Kikwletua or Chemka hot springs, a hidden gem in an otherwise desolate expanse. En route, passing through scattered isolated settlements in a semi-arid landscape, the sudden appearance of verdant palm and fig trees at the springs will catch you off guard.
Sourced from an underground river in Kilimanjaro National Park, these springs interact with geothermal elements, creating a chain of small, perpetually warm lakes—never stagnant, always inviting. Divided into two sections, a narrow canal adorned with fallen branches and leaves from overhanging palms allows swimming between them. The first area, vibrant and compact, hosts a few tables, benches, and ropes that locals use for acrobatic jumps. Meanwhile, the second, larger expanse offers serenity, its open space bathed in sunlight—an ideal spot for tranquil floating.
Though named Maji Moto, translating to “hot water” in Swahili, the temperature hovers around 27°C—perfect for a leisurely swim. Spend the day leisurely immersed in the crystalline blue waters, partaking in rope swings, tire tubing, and exhilarating jumps from trees. For the adventurous, tiny fish provide an unconventional spa treatment by nibbling away dead skin. Swim with caution, as the depth prohibits standing, and a gentle current flows.
The area, maintained by the local Chemka village community, imposes a modest entry fee for access. Facilities are simple yet well-kept, offering local dishes and drinks at small shops, basic restrooms, equipment rentals, and a changing cabin.
Pack a towel and a bathing suit, and consider adding a snorkel and mask to elevate your experience. To avoid crowds, steer clear of weekends, as these are bustling times attracting both tourists and locals. Optimal conditions await early birds in the morning when the waters are at their clearest — less commotion means less sand and sediment stirred up by more swimmers.
How to Get to Materuni & Maji Moto
Materuni village rests in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, sitting at an elevation of 1300m above sea level. The village is conveniently close to Moshi, a mere 15km away, while Arusha lies further at 95km. Despite the seemingly short distances, reaching Materuni requires a 45-minute drive from Moshi or a more substantial 2 hours and 30 minutes from Arusha. The dusty roads leading up to Materuni present their own challenges, especially during the rainy season when mud can turn the journey into a lengthy ordeal.
When it comes to reaching Materuni, you have several options at your disposal, ranging from tours to dala-dala or taxis. If you find yourself in Moshi, accessing Materuni is easily achievable via public transport, taxi, or by joining a tour. Conversely, if you’re situated in Arusha, we recommend opting for a guided tour that covers both Materuni and Maji Moto rather than attempting a self-guided journey. Taxis are available in both locations, but they may cost as much as a private tour without guaranteeing the driver will serve as a guide.
Option 1 – By Organized Tour from Arusha/Moshi
Explore various online platforms for tour bookings, or simply wander the streets of Moshi or Arusha, where you’ll encounter local guides eager to guide you. The most prevalent itinerary typically encompasses a scenic hike to Materuni waterfalls, an enlightening coffee tour, a taste of authentic Chagga cuisine during lunch, and a refreshing visit to the Maji Moto hot springs—usually in that sequence.
This option proves optimal for those with limited time, particularly those spending only 1 or 2 days in Moshi or Arusha. Opting for a tour alleviates the burden of coordinating diverse activities and transportation, handled seamlessly by the tour operator. The tour price encompasses private transportation to and from your hotel, along with all the aforementioned activities. A reasonable cost for a private tour averages around $100 per person from Arusha and $80 per person from Moshi, with potential discounts available for group travelers.
— Organized Tours —
Option 2 – By Public Transport from Moshi
Arranging your own day via public transport from Moshi may pose some challenges, but it’s certainly feasible. If you’re journeying from Arusha, a guided tour or taxi might be a more convenient choice. Additionally, keep in mind that attempting both Materuni and Maji Moto in a single day might be arduous, considering they are in opposite directions from Moshi.
How to Get from Moshi to Materuni by Bus: A direct dala-dala (local bus) from Moshi’s central bus stand to the Materuni village office provides a straightforward but perhaps uncomfortable ride. Inquire with your accommodation about the correct route and waiting location, and be aware that you depart once the bus is full—there are no fixed departure times.
Moshi – Materuni Cost: The bus ride is around 1000 TZS per person, one-way. Upon reaching Materuni, additional fees include the village fee (10,000 TZS), the coffee experience (starting from 10,000 TZS), Chagga lunch (from 20,000 TZS), and a guide (approximately 60,000 TZS per group) to lead you to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can book this Materuni Waterfall & Coffee Tour with a boda-boda for a total price ranging from $40-45 per person, depending on the group size.
How to Get from Moshi to Maji Moto by Bus: Maji Moto is situated off the main road between Moshi (40km, 1h 15min) and Arusha (70km, 2h), beyond Rundugai Village. However, if you’re taking the bus, expect additional travel time due to slower journeys, stops, and transfers to tuk-tuks. Begin by boarding a dala-dala to Boma N’gombe (once again, seek advice at your accommodation), and from there, secure a bajaji (tuk-tuk) to transport you to the hot springs. Bear in mind that the journey from Boma N’gombe involves leaving the tarmac road for bumpy dusty tracks, and bajajis are not the most comfortable means of transport.
Moshi – Maji Moto Cost: The dala-dala ride from Moshi to Boma N’gombe should not exceed 2000 TZS per person, while negotiating the fare for the bajaji ride is customary. Anticipate an entrance fee of 20,000-25,000 TZS upon arrival, with separate rates for Tanzanians and tourists.
Option 3 – By Taxi from Arusha/Moshi
When opting for a taxi, you’ll likely seek advice from your accommodation for a recommended driver who can also coordinate a waterfall hike and a coffee tour. Most accommodation proprietors collaborate with specific drivers who double as guides and can easily arrange a tour for you. However, this approach means leaving the selection of both driver and tour somewhat to chance, or more precisely, to your accommodation owner.
It’s important to note that accommodation owners often have established arrangements with particular drivers and guides at fixed prices. At times, they may attempt to charge higher rates for personal gain. When prices aren’t transparently displayed and all you see is “Tour to Materuni Waterfalls,” be prepared to negotiate.
In Arusha, a private two-person tour should not exceed $100 per person, and a shared taxi ride should cost no more than $70, covering transportation, the coffee tour, the waterfall hike, and even the visit to Maji Moto. Costs should be even lower in Moshi. Additionally, inquire if anyone at your accommodation is planning the same tour, allowing you to share transportation fees.
Where to Stay Near Materuni
Staying in Materuni itself offers an authentic immersion in the village life. Accommodations provided by locals are simple yet genuine, inviting you to deeply engage with the Chagga culture. While amenities might be limited, the experience of residing among locals within the rainforest surroundings is unmatched. For a more rustic but fulfilling stay, consider exploring tented camps or eco-lodges nearby.
Moshi stands out as another recommended location to base your stay, primarily for its proximity to Materuni. It proves to be an exceptional hub, particularly for adventurers gearing up for treks up Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru. However, even for those not embarking on a trek, witnessing the grandeur of these majestic peaks is an awe-inspiring experience. Nestled within the heart of the vibrant Chagga heritage, Moshi also provides ample opportunities to explore neighboring Chagga villages and bustling local markets.
Arusha, though a bit more distant, stands as a central nexus for those eager to delve into Tanzania’s iconic national parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara. Whether you’re gearing up for a safari or returning from one, consider allocating an extra day for a day trip to Materuni. Beyond its safari allure, Arusha teems with a lively cultural panorama encompassing diverse markets, notably the Maasai Market, along with art galleries and museums showcasing Tanzanian heritage, artistry, and traditions. Moreover, it presents an extensive array of accommodation choices ranging from economical guesthouses to opulent lodges and hotels.
| Where to Stay in Materuni: Materuni Homes, Materuni Chimbo Point
| Where to Stay in Moshi: Mkoani Homestay, Kiwavi Home, Goodtimewithfar House, Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat
| Where to Stay in Arusha: Banana Farm Eco Hostel, Serengeti Villa, Haradali’s Home, Blue Elephant Villas
As you bid adieu to the enchanting Materuni village, its cascading waterfall, the aromatic coffee tour, and the vibrant Chagga tribe remember that this is just the beginning of your extraordinary Tanzanian odyssey! From the iconic Serengeti and the mystical Ngorongoro Crater to the lush landscapes of Tarangire and the serene shores of Lake Manyara, the North unfolds a myriad of experiences.
So get ready to embark on the next chapter of your Tanzanian escapade, where the heartbeat of nature resonates in every step and the spirit of adventure knows no bounds.