8-Hour Materuni Waterfalls and Chemka Hot Springs Tour from Moshi/Arusha

8 Hours Round trip from Hotel Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Walk through tropical rainforest and local shambas to reach Materuni Waterfalls
02 See coffee, banana, and avocado farms in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro
03 Enjoy a scenic drive past local markets and farms on the way to Chemka
04 Relax in the pleasantly warm, crystal-clear waters of Chemka Hot Springs
05 Try the rope swing and unwind beneath the sun-dappled shade of the trees
06 Refuel with local favourites such as chips mayai

Escape into the green foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro on this full-day adventure to Materuni Waterfalls and Chemka (Maji Moto) Hot Springs. Walk through lush tropical rainforest and local shambas growing coffee, bananas, and avocados on your way to one of the tallest and most impressive waterfalls in the area. Then continue on a scenic drive off the usual tourist trail to Chemka, where pleasantly warm, crystal-clear waters, shaded trees, and a rope swing invite you to relax. The day is rounded out with local favourites such as chips mayai.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Moshi

Languages English, French, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Materuni Waterfalls Hike and Chemka Hot Springs Escape

This very impressive waterfall is one of the tallest in the area. The walk takes about 2 hours and crosses valleys and hills covered by tropical rainforest, passing coffee, banana, and avocado shambas, the Swahili word for farms.

After visiting Materuni Waterfalls, depart for Maji Moto on a scenic 2-hour drive that takes you off the tourist trail and offers a glimpse into local life, including bustling markets and local farms. You will then spend a few hours soaking in the pleasantly warm waters, swinging on the rope swing, relaxing in the sun-dappled shade of the trees, and feasting on local favourites such as chips mayai.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Hotel 2 cities · 8 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Arusha or Moshi).
Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle.
Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
Materuni Waterfalls entrance fees.
Chemka (Maji Moto) Hot Springs entrance fees.
Local village guide.
Bottled drinking water.
Hot local lunch.
All government taxes and applicable fees.

What's Not Included

Personal expenses.
Tips and gratuities.
Alcoholic and extra beverages.
Travel insurance.
Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

What to bring

Comfortable hiking shoes or walking trainers.
Swimwear for the Chemka Hot Springs.
Towel and a change of clothes.
Sunscreen and sunglasses.
Hat or cap.
Insect repellent.
Reusable water bottle.
Waterproof bag for phones and valuables.
Camera or smartphone for photos.
Some cash for personal expenses and souvenirs.
Light clothing and a light jacket.
Personal toiletries and any necessary medication.

Know before you go

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for hiking and uneven terrain.
Bring swimwear and a towel for the Chemka Hot Springs.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Bring a change of clothes and waterproof bags for your belongings.
The walk to Materuni Waterfalls can be slippery, especially during the rainy season.
Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Inform your guide of any dietary requirements or special needs in advance.
Respect local traditions and ask permission before photographing residents.
Carry some cash for personal purchases, souvenirs, and optional activities.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for the waterfall hike.