Mataruni waterfall | Chaga Coffee culture | Tanzania

Materuni Waterfall & Chaga Coffee Culture

Materuni Waterfall

Materuni Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder located near Moshi, Tanzania, on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. It stands around 80 meters (260 feet) tall, surrounded by lush rainforests, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and hikers. The trek to the waterfall is about 45 minutes to an hour, passing through scenic landscapes, banana farms, and Chaga villages. The water is crystal-clear and refreshing—ideal for a quick dip after the hike.

Chaga Coffee Culture

The Chaga people, one of Tanzania’s largest ethnic groups, are known for their traditional coffee-making process. They grow Arabica coffee on the fertile volcanic soil of Kilimanjaro, hand-picking and sun-drying the beans. Visitors can take part in the full coffee-making experience, which includes:

Hand-roasting the beans over an open fire

Pounding the roasted beans using a wooden mortar and pestle

Brewing the coffee traditionally, resulting in a rich, aromatic cup


The process is accompanied by traditional Chaga songs and dances, making it an immersive cultural experience.

Chaga Cuisine – "Everything with Banana"

Bananas are a staple in Chaga cuisine, used in various dishes from main meals to beverages. Some popular dishes include:

Ndizi Nyama – A savory stew made with bananas and beef or goat meat

Mbege – A traditional banana beer, fermented with millet

Ndizi na Nazi – Bananas cooked with coconut milk for a creamy dish

Makande – A mix of maize and beans, a common Tanzanian dish


Visiting Materuni gives you a taste of authentic Chaga hospitality, from its natural beauty to its rich food and coffee culture. It’s an unforgettable experience for anyone exploring Tanzania!