With some spare time in Moshi before our big climb, we decided to take a day trip to the Chaga tribe region for a glimpse of the Materuni Waterfall. Lunch and a coffee tour were also included in the trip. Our entire Kilimanjaro and safari itinerary was booked using Popote African Adventures so we used them for our Materuni day trip as well. If you’re looking for an affordable company that does not lack in professionalism or quality- choose Popote!
The day began with a bumpy ride through the Chaga village which is the third largest tribe in Tanzania (following behind the Sukuma and Masai tribes). Everyone, including the children, were very well dressed to attend Sunday church service. They do practice Christianity. Upon arrival we were greeted by our guide and I hate myself for saying that I do not remember his name but he was so sweet.
We were taken on a 30-40 minute hike throughout the forest bordering Kilimanjaro National Park. The views during the hike are spectacular. Some of the Chaga children decided to join us.
Anticipation grew for me as we could hear the falls getting closer. I promise you the first glimpse does not disappoint! I also really appreciated that it was not overly crowded with tourists. Swimming is allowed but beware- the water is C O L D.
We relaxed on the rocks for a few minutes and took photos before heading back to the village for lunch and coffee. I gotta say- the lunch provided by the village was my favorite meal of the entire trip. Bananas are their signature dish and are even used to make their local beer. If you make your way to Tanzania- PLEASE try the banana beer and report back to me. I am saddened that I never had the opportunity to try one.
Our plates were loaded with rice, bananas, stew, spinach and beans. Margeaux and I both had multiple servings, haha.
The remainder of the tour was spent learning about and making authentic, organic coffee. Optimal harvesting is July-December and it takes three years to grow. Several steps are required to make just ONE pot of coffee. The guys explained to us that they would do all of this before school in the mornings if they wanted coffee. After seeing this I can assure you we take coffee pots for granted. Some of the steps are quite tiresome so they prepare the coffee while singing and chanting to keep each other motivated. To make the coffee from scratch you start with de-shelling the beans, pounding them, removing the rotten beans, roasting, pounding again, boiling the water, adding the grinded coffee and finally filtering it into cups.
And after alllllllll of that hard work… Voila!
One of the guys asked how much coffee I drink a day. I responded saying, “One to two cups. You?” and he said, “Seven. No coffee, No life.” Same brother. Same.