A day trip to Materuni Village offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure near the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. Famous for its spectacular waterfall, lush rainforest, and vibrant coffee plantations, Materuni provides an immersive experience in Tanzania’s local lifestyle. Visitors can hike through scenic trails, learn about traditional coffee farming, and enjoy the refreshing beauty of the waterfall, making it an ideal day trip for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
The journey from Arusha to Materuni takes you through charming villages, banana plantations, and highland farmland, providing a glimpse of daily life on Kilimanjaro’s slopes. Once in the village, a guided hike introduces you to the local ecosystem, including tropical flora, waterfalls, and small streams, ending with a rewarding plunge pool at the waterfall.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want an active day of hiking, photography, and cultural immersion, including a hands-on experience of Tanzania’s renowned coffee-growing traditions.
Distance: Approximately 60 km (37 miles) one way from Arusha
Driving Time: Around 1.5–2 hours, depending on road conditions
Morning:
Depart Arusha early, around 7:00 AM, and drive toward Materuni Village on Kilimanjaro’s slopes. Enjoy the scenic journey through small villages, banana plantations, and rolling highlands. Arrive at Materuni mid-morning and begin the guided hike through the lush forest toward the waterfall. Along the way, your guide will introduce the local flora, birds, and traditional uses of plants.
Afternoon:
Reach the Materuni Waterfall and enjoy time for photography, swimming, or relaxing by the plunge pool. Afterward, return to the village for a coffee plantation tour, where you can learn about the coffee-growing process from planting to roasting. Participate in a traditional coffee-making demonstration and enjoy tasting freshly brewed coffee made from local beans.
Evening:
After the coffee experience, begin the drive back to Arusha in the late afternoon. Expect to arrive by early evening, around 5:30–6:00 PM, completing a day filled with hiking, cultural learning, and the natural beauty of the Kilimanjaro highlands.