Chemka Hot Spring & Materuni Coffee Tour.
Discover the Heart of Tanzania in a Day – Arusha Awaits!
- Kilimanjaro
Overview.
The Chemka Hot Spring and Materuni Coffee Tour is an ideal day trip for travelers seeking a unique mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion near the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Located close to Moshi, this trip provides an unforgettable blend of Tanzania’s natural beauty and rich traditions. You’ll start the day with a hike through lush forests to Materuni Village, where you’ll participate in a traditional coffee-making experience. In the afternoon, enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear Chemka Hot Springs, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. This tour is a fantastic way to experience local life and natural wonders on a single, memorable day.
What to Expect
Materuni Coffee Tour: The journey begins with a scenic drive to Materuni Village, located at the edge of Kilimanjaro National Park. After a short trek through beautiful landscapes, you’ll arrive in the village, where a warm welcome awaits. Here, you’ll participate in the entire coffee-making process—from picking the beans to roasting, grinding, and brewing coffee with the Chagga community. The hands-on experience offers insight into local traditions and agriculture, and you’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor with a cup of freshly brewed coffee while surrounded by Kilimanjaro’s breathtaking views.
Chemka Hot Springs: After lunch, the tour proceeds to Chemka Hot Springs. Located about an hour from Materuni, Chemka is known for its clear turquoise waters surrounded by fig trees and lush vegetation. The spring’s natural warm waters are ideal for swimming and unwinding, with small fish providing a natural “spa” experience by nibbling on your skin as you dip your feet. Enjoy the serenity of the surroundings as you relax in this natural oasis, a perfect way to recharge after the coffee tour.
Why Book This Tour?
Cultural Experience: This tour gives travelers a unique chance to immerse themselves in Tanzanian culture, learning traditional coffee-making techniques and engaging directly with local farmers in Materuni Village.
Natural Beauty and Relaxation: With its pristine waters, Chemka Hot Springs offers a peaceful escape, allowing you to swim in one of Tanzania’s hidden gems while enjoying the natural scenery. The combination of coffee tour and hot spring visit offers both an active and relaxing experience in a single day.
Accessible Adventure: Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, the Chemka Hot Spring and Materuni Coffee Tour is a convenient, family-friendly day trip. Travelers of all backgrounds can enjoy both activities, as they’re easygoing yet highly enriching.
Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights
7:00 AM – Departure from Arusha
- Pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Arusha.
- Scenic drive towards Kilimanjaro, with views of Mount Meru and the surrounding countryside.
9:00 AM – Arrival at Materuni Village
- Arrival at Materuni Village, a lush area on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Short hike through the vibrant green landscape to the village, where you’ll meet friendly locals and begin your coffee experience.
9:30 AM – Materuni Coffee Experience
- Immerse yourself in the traditional Chagga coffee-making process, from picking fresh coffee berries to roasting and grinding beans by hand.
- Brew and enjoy a cup of your freshly made coffee with the locals, surrounded by views of Kilimanjaro and beautiful waterfalls nearby.
- Engage in cultural exchange, learning more about the Chagga people’s customs, traditions, and stories.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break in Materuni
- Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian lunch in Materuni, often featuring local dishes such as rice, vegetables, and grilled meat (vegetarian options available upon request).
1:00 PM – Depart for Chemka Hot Springs
- Scenic one-hour drive to the Chemka Hot Springs, a natural oasis surrounded by lush fig trees and crystal-clear, turquoise waters.
- Along the way, take in the countryside views, passing through small villages and farmlands.
2:00 PM – Relax and Swim at Chemka Hot Springs
- Spend the afternoon unwinding in the warm waters of Chemka. Enjoy a swim, and relax in the naturally filtered spring waters.
- Experience a unique “spa” as tiny fish nibble on your feet, or just soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.
- Optionally, take a walk around the area or enjoy a snack from local vendors.
4:00 PM – Return to Arusha
- Begin the drive back to Arusha, leaving Chemka refreshed and relaxed.
- Chat with your guide about the day’s experiences and learn more about the local culture and landscape during the journey back.
6:30 PM – Arrival in Arusha
- Drop-off at your hotel or chosen location in Arusha.
- End of tour, with unforgettable memories and beautiful photos from a culturally and naturally enriching day.
Include and Not- Included
Tour Details
- Included: Round-trip transport from Arusha, village and spring entrance fees, guided coffee experience, traditional Tanzanian lunch, swimming access at Chemka Hot Springs, and an experienced guide.
- Not Included: Drinks and snacks at Chemka Hot Springs, personal expenses.
- What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, hat, camera, and any snacks or drinks you may want for the day.
- Duration: Approximately 11.5 hours (7:00 AM – 6:30 PM).
Not Included
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks.
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide and driver, at the traveler’s discretion.
- Extra Activities: Any optional activities or site visits not outlined in the itinerary.
- Travel Insurance: It’s recommended that travelers have their own coverage.