Ndoro Waterfalls

06:30 AM – Depart Arusha

The day starts with an early pick-up from your hotel or Airbnb in Arusha. Your guide/driver will greet you with a smile, and off you’ll go in a comfortable safari-style vehicle.

The drive to Marangu is scenic — winding roads pass through small towns, banana farms, coffee plantations, and sometimes offer breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro, peeking above the clouds like something out of a dream.

09:00 AM – Arrival in Marangu Village & Local Welcome

Upon arrival in Marangu, you’ll feel the pace of life slow down. It’s green, cool, and peaceful — a welcome contrast to the bustle of Arusha. You’ll be welcomed by a local guide from the Chagga tribe, who will accompany you on the waterfall hike and share stories of the village, the people, and their connection to the mountain.

You might even get a short coffee farm introduction, depending on time and interest, as Marangu is also known for its small-scale Arabica coffee growers.

09:30 AM – Hike to Ndoro Waterfalls Begins

Time to lace up your shoes — it’s waterfall time.

The hike to Ndoro is moderately challenging. You’ll descend along a well-maintained, though sometimes steep, trail through banana groves, local farms, and thick vegetation. Parts of the trail include hand-cut stone steps, which can get slippery — so take your time. "Pole pole" (slowly slowly), as they say here.

 Along the way:

• You might meet locals carrying bananas or firewood
• Your guide will point out medicinal plants, birds, and native flora
• The sound of rushing water will grow louder as you near the falls

10:30 AM – Arrive at Ndoro Waterfalls

And then you see it — Ndoro Waterfall, tucked into a green ravine like a secret from the earth itself.

The waterfall plunges into a cool, clean pool surrounded by mossy rocks, bamboo, and rainforest canopy. It's not overly commercial — which is part of the charm. It's raw, untouched, and deeply peaceful.

At the falls:

• Dip your feet or go for a refreshing swim (if you're brave enough — it's cold!)
• Sit on the rocks, soak in the mist, and just be — this is one of those places that makes time stand still
• Take photos, meditate, or share a quiet moment with friends

12:00 PM – Hike Back & Lunch in the Village

After enough time at the waterfall, you’ll hike back up to the village — this time ascending, which can be a bit tiring, so take breaks and enjoy the views. Once back in Marangu, it’s time to eat.

You’ll be served a traditional Chagga lunch, often home-cooked by a local family. Expect:

• Makande (a tasty maize and bean stew)
• Rice, banana stew, or ndizi nyama (beef and plantains)
• Seasonal fruits and local tea or fresh juice

This meal isn't just delicious — it’s full of stories, smiles, and cultural richness.

1:30 PM – Optional Cultural Walk (If You’d Like)

If you’re up for it and time allows, you can take a short walk around the village:

• Visit a local Chagga cave used during tribal wars
• See traditional banana beer brewing
• Learn how locals dry and roast coffee beans
• Or just walk through the peaceful paths, lined with coffee and banana trees, chatting with friendly villagers

This part is completely flexible — you can do a little or a lot, or skip it and just relax.

3:00 PM – Begin Drive Back to Arusha

When you're ready, your driver will take you back to Arusha. Tired, maybe a little muddy, but glowing with the kind of calm that only nature can give.

You’ll likely return to Arusha by 6:00 PM, just in time for a warm shower and a quiet evening to reflect.