We start early in the morning and are accompanied by our English-speaking guide. The road takes us through beautiful landscapes: African bushland where we see dried-up river beds, baobab and acacia trees and sugar cane plantations. Once we arrive in the village, please remember to be a respectful guest and don‘t take pictures of the villagers without asking. During the visit you will have a chance to mingle with the Maasai and chat with them, but your social skills and creativity will determine how much they open up to you. Your English-speaking guide will assist you and translate into Kimaasai, as the Maasai themselves do not speak any other languages. Whilst you walk through the village with your guide, you will learn more about the culture of the Maasai. This will include a lesson on traditional Maasai medicine and the opportunity to taste the local Maasai tea. We will also have the opportunity to visit a Maasai home. In the early afternoon, we will leave the village and continue to the Kikuletwa Hot Springs, which are near the village of Rundugai. The Kikuletwa Hot Springs are certainly one of the most beautiful places in Tanzania – the hot springs are surrounded by fig and palm trees and winding roots – a real hidden paradise. The crystal clear, turquoise waters invite you for a refreshing swim. Although called a hot spring, water in Kikuletwa is not hot, but rather refreshing since the water source is from the Kilimanjaro mountain itself. Also, you will get to enjoy the Maasai barbeque, dance, foods, and lifestyles in their huts. with one night camping in their homes surround in the slope of Mt Kilimanjaro
Hadzabe Bushmen Day Trip Walking Departure from Karatu very early morning to visit the Hadzabe and go hunting with them. The Hadzabe Tribe live in the dry terrain near Lake Eyasi, south of Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania. They have existed in this region for over 3000 years. The Hadzabe people are nomads and thus don’t live in the same place for long. They only set up camp for several days or even months and then when they have harvested the resources of their current location, they move to another area. Their moves are normally influenced by climate changes and the availability of wild fruits and vegetation for their animals. They build homes by weaving small huts out of sticks from the euphorbia bush. They eat roots, meat, wild fruits and use alternative medicine to treat their illnesses. They utilize sticks and grass to start fires. Their unique lifestyle makes a stay with them an interesting and stimulating experience. Drive back to Karatu in afternoon.
In Arusha National Park, you can go on a walking safari. This is a walk at the foot of Mount Meru under the guidance of a park ranger. During the hike, you may have the chance to see different species of animals, such as monkeys, buffaloes, zebras and many species of tropical birds. Depending on your wishes and your walking speed, this walk takes about an hour and a half. You will have lunch in the park after your hike is over. This activity is recommended in combination with a day planned in Arusha Nationalpark as it involves park fee and other additional costs
Meserani Snake Park houses snakes and reptiles that can be found in Tanzania. An experienced guide, who can tell you all about these animals, will accompany you. During the tour you will learn how the snakes defend themselves, where they live in nature and what they eat. There is also a bird sanctuary in the park and you can see different kinds of crocodiles and turtles. In the Massai Museum the Maasai tell you everything about their culture and even explain step by step how they build their houses. You will also learn more about their special holidays and rituals. The biggest difference to a visit of a Massai village is that in this museum you will go a little bit deeper into the way of life of the people of the Massai culture, the background of the tribe will be explained more detailedand there will be no demonstrations like there are in a Maasai village. Would you like to ride a camel? This is also possible here! If you can negotiate well, you can ride a camel for a short distance for just a few dollars.
Tanzania has many coffee plantations, especially in the northern part of the country, where the climate is favorable for the magical coffee bean. Some lodges even grow their own coffee and it’s always interesting to make a tour over a plantation. If it’s the right season, the guided tour will show how coffee beans grow, how they are harvested and how the beans are finally processed to become the warm drink so many people love to start their day with. In other seasons it’s still possible to do a tour. The guide will then tell you about the different types of beans, how these beans are processed and how that delicious coffee taste is made. And of course, all tours end with a lovely cup of freshly brewed coffee!
The beautiful Rundugai Hot Springs are located in the middle of the Sanya Plains, about 35 km from Moshi. It is a small oasis in the heart of a dry and dusty landscape. Locals call this wonder the ‘Chemka Maji Moto’ meaning ‘boiling warm water’. This refers to the way in which the bubbling water emerges from under ground. The water has a nice temperature and is crystal clear, so you can see all the way to the bottom. The Rundugai Hot Springs are surrounded by tropical palm trees and impressive roots of big fig trees. It’s a true paradise and a great place to swim, relax, picnic and enjoy the beauty nature has to offer. There is also a rope swing for jumping into the water. On clear days you can even see the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro from here.
The Kuringe waterfall is near Moshi, a town close to Arusha. This trip is excellent for travelers who want to see Mount Kilimanjaro up close. On a clear day this place offers an excellent view of Kibo, one of the famous peaks of Kilimanjaro. After approximately a two hour drive from Arusha you arrive in the beautiful village of Materuni at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. The village is blessed with good soil and is green all year round. It’s tempting for visitors to stop by and learn more about the cultural heritage of the Chagga tribe who live in this area. The village also offers an amazing view over Moshi and Kilimanjaro. A local guide will take you on a beautiful walk from Materuni to the amazing seventy meter high waterfall. It is the highest in this part of the country, with thousands of liter of crystal clear water from the Kilimanjaro glaciers falling down with an amazing force. At an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level, the path leads through valleys and tropical rain forest, alternating between splendid views and plantations full of coffee, bananas and avocados plants. En route you can taste banana beer while the guide tells you about life in Materuni and the diverse nature of this area. Be sure to take a towel with you if you want to cool of from your walk with a refreshing dive into the ice-cold water of the waterfall! Back in the village you will end the day with a coffee roasting demonstration and an accompanying cup of fresh Materuni coffee and a local lunch.
This is a relatively easy, two-hour bike ride on beautiful paths. The mountain bike tour takes you past local banana and coffee fields and several Tanzanian farms. You also cycle through a number of villages on the outskirts of Arusha. It is a ride over flat terrain that shows how people live here. Trees provide the necessary shade along the route, which is especially nice in the warm season.
The ride takes place on the Wildlife Estate and whether you are a complete beginner or an advanced rider, it is an opportunity and experience for everyone. If you wish to, the activity can also be organized somewhere else, for example in any other national environment. It is also often done at Longido area or Lake Natron as you can see on the pictures. Those with little horse riding experience can enjoy a gentle hack along dusty tracks where wildebeest and antelopes graze contentedly. Led by experienced guides, one can explore the meandering paths, spotting a rich array of wildlife like zebras, wildebeests, eland and other gazelles and antelopes along your way. Regularly seen on the horse ride is one of the most elegant and rarest mammals found in Tanzania – the Gerenuk.
A tour visit to Empakai and Olmoti Crater in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a journey into some of the most stunning and lesser-explored volcanic landscapes in East Africa. Empakai Crater, a smaller but equally breathtaking counterpart to the famous Ngorongoro Crater, is a deep caldera filled with a shimmering alkaline lake surrounded by lush green walls. The hike down into the crater is a rewarding experience, offering panoramic views of the lake and the chance to spot flamingos, buffaloes, and other wildlife that inhabit the area. The serene atmosphere and vibrant colors of the crater makes it a photographer’s paradise and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers
A tour visit to Empakai and Olmoti Crater in Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a journey into some of the most stunning and lesser-explored volcanic landscapes in East Africa. Empakai Crater, a smaller but equally breathtaking counterpart to the famous Ngorongoro Crater, is a deep caldera filled with a shimmering alkaline lake surrounded by lush green walls. The hike down into the crater is a rewarding experience, offering panoramic views of the lake and the chance to spot flamingos, buffaloes, and other wildlife that inhabit the area. The serene atmosphere and vibrant colors of the crater makes it a photographer’s paradise and a peaceful retreat for nature lovers
A tour visit to the Kilimanjaro Shira Plateau is a breathtaking adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with a sense of awe-inspiring grandeur. The Shira Plateau, located on the western side of Mount Kilimanjaro, is one of the highest plateaus in the world, formed by the collapse of an ancient volcanic crater. The journey to the plateau takes you through diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to moorlands dotted with giant lobelias and senecios. As you ascend, the air becomes crisper, and the views more dramatic, with the vast expanse of the plateau stretching out before you. The plateau itself is a surreal, otherworldly landscape, offering panoramic views of Kilimanjaro’s peaks, including Shira Cathedral and the iconic Kibo summit. It’s a place of tranquility and raw beauty, where you can truly appreciate the scale and majesty of Africa’s highest mountain.
The Shira Plateau is not only a visual marvel but also a haven for unique flora and fauna. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, elands, and even the occasional leopard, as well as numerous bird species. Many tours include guided hikes across the plateau, allowing visitors to explore its hidden corners and take in the breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a visit to the Shira Plateau is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kilimanjaro’s wild and untamed beauty. It’s a reminder of the power and wonder of the natural world, leaving visitors with memories that will last a lifetime.
A Lake Eyasi tour and cultural experience offers a fascinating journey into one of Tanzania’s most remote and culturally rich regions. Located in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Eyasi is a seasonal salt lake surrounded by stunning landscapes and home to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, two of Tanzania’s oldest indigenous communities. The tour typically begins with a visit to the Hadzabe, one of the last enduring hunter-gatherer tribes in Africa. Visitors have the unique opportunity to join them on a traditional hunting expedition, where they use bows and arrows to forage for food, or to participate in gathering fruits, tubers, and honey. The Hadzabe’s ancient way of life, which has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years, provides a rare glimpse into humanity’s distant past. Their language, which includes distinctive click sounds, and their deep knowledge of the land are truly captivating.
Following the visit to the Hadzabe, the tour often includes an encounter with the Datoga people, a pastoralist tribe known for their skilled craftsmanship in metalwork and jewelry-making. Here, you can observe their traditional way of life, including livestock herding and the crafting of tools and ornaments from scrap metal. The Datoga are proud of their heritage and are eager to share their customs and stories with visitors. A Lake Eyasi tour is not just a cultural experience but also an adventure, as the area’s rugged terrain and serene beauty provide a stunning backdrop for exploration. This immersive journey offers a profound understanding of the resilience and diversity of Tanzania’s indigenous cultures, making it a must-do for travelers seeking an authentic and meaningful connection to the country’s human and natural heritage.
The Kilimanjaro Marangu Day Hike is an accessible and rewarding adventure that gives glimpse into the imposing world of Mount Kilimanjaro without the need for a multi-day trek. Starting at the Marangu Gate, the hike follows the well-trodden Marangu Trail, often referred to as the “Coca-Cola Route,” which is known for its scenic beauty and relatively gentle terrain. The trail goes through dense rainforest, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, vibrant vegetation, and the sounds of wildlife, including playful colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The cool, shaded path and the fresh mountain air create a serene atmosphere, making the hike enjoyable for adventurers of all fitness levels. Along the way, your guide will share insights about the flora, fauna, and history of the area, enriching the experience.
The hike typically culminates at Mandara Hut, situated at an elevation of around 2,700 meters (8,858 feet). Here, you can take a well-deserved break, enjoy a packed lunch, and explore the nearby Maundi Crater, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding plains and, on clear days, a distant glimpse of Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped summit. The Marangu Day Hike is perfect for those with limited time or who want to experience the magic of Kilimanjaro’s lower slopes without committing to a full summit climb. It’s an unforgettable introduction to the mountain’s diverse ecosystems and a chance to connect with nature in one of the world’s most iconic settings. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this day hike leaves you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Kilimanjaro’s beauty.
The Mulala Cultural Experience in Tanzania offers a unique and immersive opportunity to connect with the local people. The experience typically includes a guided walk through the village, where you can interact with locals, visit traditional homes, and learn about their agricultural practices, such as coffee farming and banana cultivation. The tour is both educational and engaging, offering a chance to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of this community while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit the local population.
A highlight of the Mulala Cultural Experience is the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities, such as grinding coffee beans, preparing traditional meals, or even joining in on a local dance or song. The warm hospitality of the community makes visitors feel welcome and valued, creating a sense of connection and mutual respect. The experience often concludes with a shared meal, where you can savor authentic traditional dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This cultural encounter is not only a chance to learn about Tanzania’s diverse heritage but also a meaningful way to contribute to the preservation of indigenous traditions. For travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Tanzanian culture beyond its wildlife and landscapes, the Mulala Cultural Experience is a rewarding and unforgettable journey into the way of life of rural Tanzania communities.
A treetop canopy walk in Lake Manyara National Park is a thrilling and unique way to experience Tanzania’s lush rainforest ecosystem from a completely different perspective. The walkway consists of a series of suspended bridges and platforms that are strategically built high above the forest floor, allowing visitors to explore the dense canopy at eye level with the trees. As you make your way across the swaying bridges, you’re surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest—monkeys leaping through the branches, colorful birds flitting about, and the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze. The high vantage point offers breathtaking views of the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including ancient mahogany and fig trees, as well as glimpses of wildlife like blue monkeys, hornbills, and even the occasional elephant wandering below. It’s an immersive experience that brings you closer to nature while providing a sense of adventure and tranquility.
The canopy walk is not only an exciting activity but also an educational one. Informative signs along the way provide insights into the forest’s ecology, the importance of canopy ecosystems, and the conservation efforts in place to protect this fragile environment. The walk is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, though it does require a bit of courage to navigate the suspended bridges. For those who take the leap, the reward is a deeper connection to the natural world and a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life in the forest. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or simply someone looking for a memorable experience, the treetop canopy walk in Lake Manyara National Park is a must-do activity that combines adventure, education, and awe-inspiring beauty.
