Woodland Trek & Safaris Presents: A Day Adventure to Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Plantations

A Unique Journey into Nature and Culture

Discover the enchanting charm of Materuni Village on this immersive day trip with Woodland Trek & Safaris. Located on the lush slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Materuni offers a stunning fusion of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Our journey begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring Materuni Waterfalls, one of the tallest cascades in Tanzania, surrounded by dense rainforest and thriving biodiversity. Here, you’ll marvel at the majestic waterfall while immersing yourself in the serene landscapes that make this area so unique.

After soaking in the beauty of Materuni’s natural splendor, we’ll introduce you to the thriving coffee culture of the Chaga people. Known for producing some of Tanzania’s finest coffee, the Materuni Coffee Plantations offer an unforgettable experience in coffee making, blending tradition with taste. Join us in this journey, where every step reveals a new layer of Tanzanian heritage, welcoming you into the heart of Kilimanjaro’s cultural and natural treasures.

Itinerary for the Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Plantations Day Trip

Morning: Departure from Arusha & Scenic Drive to Materuni Village

Our adventure starts early with a pick-up from your Arusha accommodation at approximately 7:00 AM. As we travel toward Materuni, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Tanzanian countryside, with Kilimanjaro in the distance. Along the way, our guide will share stories of the Chaga people, offering insights into their rich traditions and deep connection to the land. After about a 2.5-hour drive, we’ll reach Materuni Village, a picturesque locale where the pace of life is gentle, and the people warm and welcoming.

Upon arrival, we’ll set off on a guided hike through lush rainforests toward Materuni Waterfalls. The trail is well-suited to most visitors and is lined with exotic flora and fauna. As you approach, the sounds of cascading water will lead you to the majestic 80-meter waterfall—a perfect photo spot and an invitation to take a refreshing dip in the pool below. This guided walk through nature will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

Highlights: Scenic drive from Arusha, guided hike to Materuni Waterfalls, rainforest nature walk
Meal Plan: Breakfast at your Arusha accommodation, snacks provided during the hike
Additional Activities: Photography, bird watching, and a brief stop at local farms where traditional crops like bananas and yams are grown

Afternoon: Traditional Lunch & Coffee Tour at Materuni Plantations

After our morning at the waterfall, we’ll return to Materuni Village for a traditional lunch. Experience local flavors with a Chaga-style meal featuring dishes like banana stew, beans, rice, and seasonal vegetables, prepared with love by the community. This shared meal provides a glimpse into Chaga culinary traditions, a perfect prelude to the coffee tour.

Next, our coffee adventure begins! Led by a local coffee expert, we’ll walk through the lush coffee plantations where you’ll learn about each stage of coffee production—from planting to harvesting. The Chaga people’s deep expertise in coffee cultivation has been passed down through generations, and here, you’ll see it firsthand. The highlight is participating in the traditional coffee-making process: roasting beans over an open fire and grinding them with a wooden mortar and pestle. Afterward, enjoy a fresh, aromatic cup of Tanzanian coffee, brewed on-site and shared in good company.

Highlights: Traditional Chaga lunch, guided coffee tour, hands-on coffee processing experience, coffee tasting
Meal Plan: Traditional Chaga lunch, coffee tasting in Materuni Village
Additional Activities: Opportunity to purchase freshly roasted coffee beans, stroll through the village, engage in cultural exchange through stories and songs

Late Afternoon: Relaxing Return Journey to Arusha

As the afternoon draws to a close, take some time to explore the village’s hidden corners, visit a local craft shop, or enjoy panoramic views of Kilimanjaro from a scenic lookout. With unforgettable memories in tow, we’ll begin our return journey to Arusha. During the drive, you may wish to stop at a local market to pick up Tanzanian fruits, spices, or other souvenirs to commemorate your experience.

Our day ends as we drop you back at your accommodation in Arusha in the early evening, with new memories, newfound friendships, and a deeper connection to Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.

Highlights: Scenic return to Arusha, optional village exploration
Meal Plan: Light refreshments on the return trip
Additional Activities: Stop at a local market for unique souvenirs, optional final coffee break in Arusha

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

• Round-trip transportation from Arusha to Materuni Village.
• Professional, English-speaking guide.
• Entrance fees to Materuni Waterfalls.
• Guided hike to the waterfall.
• Traditional Chaga lunch in the village.
• Coffee plantation tour and coffee tasting.
• Bottled water throughout the day.

Exclusions:

• International and domestic flights.
• Travel insurance.
• Personal items (souvenirs, additional drinks, etc.).
• Tips for guides and drivers.
• Extra activities not mentioned in the itinerary (such as purchasing coffee or other local products).
• Any other meals and drinks not specified in the meal plan.