Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Organize your transport from Moshi, pack the right hiking gear, and learn what to expect on the trail.
Getting there
Options to reach Materuni Village.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Hire a private taxi from Moshi town to Materuni Village. | 40-45 minutes | 100,000 - 150,000 TZS round-trip | The last 6-7 kilometers of the road are bumpy and unpaved; drivers should proceed slowly. |
| Bus: Take a local shared minibus (Dala-dala) from Moshi towards Uru/Materuni. | 1 hour | 1,000 TZS one-way | The cheapest option, though slower and less comfortable. You will still need to hire a guide upon arrival at the village office. |
| Tour: Book a guided day trip through a tour operator in Moshi or Arusha. | Half to full day | $35 - $90 USD | Highly recommended as it seamlessly bundles transport, village fees, lunch, and the Chagga coffee experience. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons: late June to October, and mid-December to February. The clay trails become extremely muddy and slippery during the rainy season.
Arrive in the morning for the best chance to see Mount Kilimanjaro's peak. Clouds usually roll in by the afternoon.
What to bring
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The trail is mostly dirt and clay.
Wear sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules for your visit.
A typical guided schedule covering the hike and coffee tour.
- Depart Moshi
Take a taxi or tour vehicle to Materuni Village.
- Village Office
Register and meet your local guide.
- Hike to Waterfall
Walk the 3km trail through the forest.
- Waterfall & Pool
View the cascade and swim in the cold plunge pool.
- Coffee Tour & Lunch
Roast coffee beans and eat a traditional Chagga meal.
- Return
Drive back to Moshi.
Combine Materuni with a visit to Kikuletwa Hot Springs.
- Pickup in Moshi
Start early to fit both locations in one day.
- Materuni Hike
Register and walk to the waterfall.
- Coffee Experience
Grind beans and drink fresh Arabica coffee.
- Drive to Hot Springs
Transfer to the Kikuletwa area.
- Swim in Hot Springs
Relax in the clear, warm waters.
Packing essentials
Bring sturdy hiking shoes to handle the slippery clay path. Pack a swimsuit and a quick-dry towel if you plan to enter the plunge pool. The water is cold, so bring a warm fleece for afterward.
Weather on the mountain changes fast. Carry a light rain jacket and keep electronics in a waterproof bag. You will need cash for independent fees or buying local coffee beans.
Easiest way to do it
Materuni Waterfall, Coffee Tour and Picnic Hot Lunch
6 h to 7 h 5.0 (257)
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
From$70per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you swim at Materuni Waterfall?
Yes, you can swim in the plunge pool at your own risk. The water comes from glaciers and is extremely cold. There are no lifeguards on duty.
How difficult is the hike?
The 3-kilometer hike is moderately easy but requires caution. The path crosses small streams and ridges. It becomes very slippery, even days after rain.
Is a guide required?
Yes. A local guide is strictly mandatory to hike the trail and walk through the village. You cannot visit the waterfall on your own.