Napuru Waterfalls

Napuru Waterfalls is a powerful 50-foot waterfall located about 40 minutes from Arusha, near the village of Napuru. The water falls into a large, deep pool below, surrounded by rocky cliffs and dense forest. The area is rich in vegetation, including coffee plants and tropical trees, and wildlife like monkeys and birds can often be spotted.  

The trail to the falls is about 45 minutes long. Visitors flow a narrow, muddy footpath that winds through small family coffee farms and crosses shallow streams. At the waterfall, the force of the plunging water creates a constant mist that hangs in the air, and the pool is cold but swimmable.

This is a place of raw, untamed beauty. Unlike more developed tourist destinations, Napuru remains refreshingly authentic. There are no major facilities, just a simple, natural setting. The Chagga people who live nearby have used this area for generations, and local guides lead visitors along traditional footpaths.  

It’s a quiet, rugged place—ideal for those who prefer a less commercialized experience. The best time to visit is in the morning when the light shines directly on the falls and the trails are less slippery.  

Escape to Napuru Waterfalls—a hidden gem just 40 minutes from Arusha! Trek through lush jungle trails, cross refreshing streams, and arrive at a stunning 50-foot cascade where you can swim in the crystal-clear plunge pool. Led by a local guide, this half-day adventure blends moderate hiking with breathtaking scenery, all set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro’s foothills. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a quick but thrilling getaway, the tour includes round-trip transport, leaving you drenched in joy (and maybe a little mud!).

Need more adrenaline? Add ziplining or quad biking (ATV)! This tour can be extended by adding on further attractions like ziplining and quad biking. Each of them adds another 1.5-2 h to your itinerary. Contact us for details.

Duration: 4-5 hours (can be extended— time at the waterfall— without any additional fee)

Itinerary

• Pick up from your hotel in Arusha (departure time: morning or early afternoon)
• Drive to Napuru Waterfalls (40-60 minutes from Arusha’s center)
• Hike to the waterfall (45-60 minutes; the final 10 minutes involve river crossing/scrambling over boulders)
• At the Falls (30-45 minutes; the plunge pool is deep and refreshing)
• Return hike to the main gate (45-60 minutes)
• Drive back to your hotel in Arusha

Getting Ready

• Things to bring: sturdy sport shoes/hiking shoes (trail is muddy/slippery), swimwear under clothes (far a waterfall dip), light rain jacket (weather changes fast near Kilimanjaro), small backpack to carry your personal items, water and snacks, cash/TZS
• Facilities: toilets at the main gate, crocs for rent (for the river crossing)
• Expect a workout (but the waterfall plunge is your reward!)
• Embrace the mess (mud = memories)
• This tour does not include food! We are happy to stop on the way for you to grab some snacks.