Marangu Cultural Tour

Join us on the Marangu Cultural Tour, a day trip that combines nature, history, and culture in one unforgettable experience. Located on the eastern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, Marangu village is home to the Chagga people and offers a rich cultural heritage just an hour’s drive from Moshi.

Explore the Marangu Gate – The Kilimanjaro Climb Begins Here

Your journey begins with a visit to the Marangu Gate, one of the most popular entry points to Mount Kilimanjaro. Here, you’ll learn more about the mountain, its routes, and the climbers who come from around the world to conquer it.

Chagga Caves and Traditional Life

Next, walk to the historic Chagga caves (tunnels)  dug nearly 200 years ago as hiding places during the conflicts between the Chagga and the Masai tribes. You’ll also visit a traditional Chagga house and learn how people used to live in this mountainous region.

Hands-On Coffee Tour

Experience the entire coffee-making process   from picking ripe beans on the plantation to roasting, grinding, and finally sipping your freshly brewed Chagga coffee. This hands-on experience is one of the highlights of the Marangu Cultural Tour.

Waterfall Adventure

Depending on your energy, take a short hike to one of Marangu’s scenic waterfalls. The trail is manageable for anyone in normal physical condition. Once there, enjoy the cool breeze, take photos, and even go for a refreshing swim in the natural pool.

Optional: Visit to the Chagga Museum

If open, you’ll visit the Chagga Museum, where artifacts and historical displays reveal more about the traditions, tools, and life of the Chagga people. Note: the museum’s opening depends on the season.

Taste Traditional Chagga Cuisine

Before heading back, enjoy a local Chagga lunch and taste the traditional banana beer known as ‘mbege’  a true cultural experience.

Tour itinerary

You’ll begin your day with a scenic one-hour drive from Moshi to Marangu village, where your first stop will be at the Marangu Gate—the starting point for Kilimanjaro climbs. From there, continue on foot to explore the historic Chagga caves, dug over 200 years ago for protection during tribal wars, and visit a traditional Chagga house. Next, enjoy a hands-on coffee tour—from harvesting to brewing your own cup. If you’re up for it, take a short hike to a nearby waterfall for a refreshing view or swim. Depending on the season, you may also visit the Chagga Museum. The day ends with a traditional Chagga lunch and a taste of local banana beer, ‘mbege’, before returning to Moshi.