Coffee Tours in the Kilimanjaro Region

The Kilimanjaro region is not only famous for its iconic mountain but also for its rich coffee culture. Coffee tours in this area offer a unique and unparalleled opportunity to fully immerse oneself in local agriculture, and learn about the intricate and meticulous coffee production process from the very start – from the hand-picking of the finest coffee beans to the rigorous quality control measures, and culminating in the ultimate pleasure of savouring a cup of freshly brewed coffee while being surrounded by the breathtaking and awe-inspiring scenery. Coffee tours in the Kilimanjaro region offer an absolutely enriching and unforgettable experience, perfectly blending education, cultural exploration, and thrilling adventure. Whether you choose to embark on a captivating journey through Materuni Village, where time seems to stand still, or to visit the renowned Kahawa Shamba, where coffee is nurtured with utmost care and expertise, or even to indulge in a delightful tasting session at the elegantly adorned Kilimanjaro Coffee Lounge, one thing is certain – you will emerge with a profound appreciation for the art of coffee making and a vibrant understanding of the local culture that surrounds it. Each meticulously curated coffee tour provides a fascinating and distinct perspective on the region’s unparalleled coffee heritage, showcasing the diversity and richness of the coffee cultivation methods and the extraordinary passion that goes into crafting the perfect cup of coffee. It is an absolute must-do activity for every visitor to Kilimanjaro, as it allows you to not only witness, but also become a part of, the captivating story of Kilimanjaro’s coffee legacy – a story that has been passed down through generations and continues to evolve, bringing joy, inspiration, and a sense of community to all who encounter it.

Here’s a guide to some of the best coffee tours in the Kilimanjaro region.

1. Materuni Village Coffee Tour

Experience the entire coffee production process from cultivation to roasting and enjoy the opportunity to join in the grinding process. This hands-on experience is enhanced by the traditional Chagga songs and dances that accompany the activity, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in local culture. Finally, before departing in the afternoon, take a moment to savour the coffee you helped create while taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.

Materuni Village, located just outside Moshi, is one of the most popular destinations for coffee tours. The village offers a blend of cultural experience and scenic beauty, including a stunning waterfall.

Tour Highlights:

Coffee Process: Learn about traditional coffee cultivation and processing methods used by the Chagga people.
Hands-On Experience: Participate in roasting and grinding coffee beans by hand, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
Waterfall Hike: Combine your coffee tour with a hike to the Materuni Waterfall, adding an adventurous touch to your visit.

Cultural Insight: The tour also provides an opportunity to interact with the local Chagga community and learn about their way of life and traditions.

2. Kahawa Shamba Coffee Tour

Located on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Kahawa Shamba (Coffee Farm) offers an immersive experience in organic coffee farming. The Kahawa Shamba Cultural Tour is a fascinating guided excursion in Moshi that takes you to a village coffee production site on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The term “Kahawa Shamba” translates to Coffee Farm in Kiswahili. This tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off services at your hotel, a 3-hour village walking tour, a comprehensive demonstration of how coffee is traditionally produced, a delicious traditional lunch, and the expertise of a local guide. These guides are typically individuals from the villages involved in cooperative coffee production, possessing a wealth of knowledge about the coffee-making process as well as the flora, fauna, and local lifestyle. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you to a village home where you will be warmly welcomed by the family and given a brief overview of the day’s activities. You will have the opportunity to handpick coffee beans, process them to remove the cherry, separate the husk from the bean, roast, grind, and finally savour the freshly-made coffee. You will then embark on a leisurely stroll through the village, admiring the coffee plants integrated into the surrounding forest and farms. Afterwards, you will enjoy a homemade lunch with the farmer’s family. Located just 30 minutes from Moshi town in the Kilimanjaro region, this tour is organized by farmers who are members of the Kilimanjaro Native Cooperative Union, one of the oldest cooperative movements in Africa. The Kahawa Shamba project aims to supplement the income of its farmer members through the burgeoning tourism industry in Kilimanjaro. These farmers have received specialized training to ensure that tourists are warmly welcomed and provided with an unforgettable experience in their villages.e farmers are well-trained to host the tourists in their respective villages

Tour Highlights:

Farm Visit: Explore the coffee farm and see the coffee plants up close.
Processing Tour: Learn about the organic coffee production process, including picking, drying, and roasting.
Tasting Session: Enjoy a coffee-tasting session with freshly brewed coffee made from the farm’s beans.

Sustainability Focus: Kahawa Shamba emphasizes sustainable farming practices and educates visitors on the importance of environmental conservation.

3. Kilimanjaro Coffee Lounge Tour

The Kilimanjaro Coffee Lounge in Moshi provides a more urban coffee tour experience, ideal for those who prefer a shorter, yet informative visit.

Tour Highlights:

Brew Demonstration: Watch a demonstration of different brewing methods and learn about the nuances of coffee flavors.
Coffee History: Gain insight into the history of coffee in Tanzania and the Kilimanjaro region’s role in its cultivation.
Tasting: Sample various types of coffee, including some of the finest single-origin beans from the region.

Convenience: Located in Moshi town, this tour is easily accessible and perfect for those with limited time.

4. Uru Coffee Tour

Uru Village, situated on the lower slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, offers another authentic coffee tour experience. Experience a day with the indigenous coffee producers on the mountainside of Mount Kilimanjaro, where you can participate in harvesting coffee beans, learning about the process, and savouring a freshly brewed cup of coffee. The Uru Shimbwe coffee hike in Moshi Kilimanjaro offers a unique cultural tour experience, located just 16 km from the town of Moshi. Kilimanjaro brothers will guide you through the slopes of Kilimanjaro to Uru Shimbwe Village for a day trip filled with visits to local Changa tribe members who cultivate bananas and coffee in the area.

Tour Highlights:

Traditional Methods: Experience traditional coffee processing techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Farm-to-Cup: Follow the journey of coffee from the farm to the cup, including harvesting, washing, drying, and roasting.
Cultural Exchange: Engage with the local farmers and learn about their daily lives and coffee farming practices.

Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the surrounding landscape during your tour.

Planning Your Coffee Tour

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit for a coffee tour is during the dry seasons, from January to March and June to October when the weather is favourable for outdoor activities.

What to Bring: