Mto Wa Mbu Village Tour : Around 18,000 people live in the thriving farming town of Mto Wa Mbu, which is situated halfway between Manyara and Ngorongoro. Spend a half-day here with a well knowledgeable Focus East Africa Tour local guide to see a side of Tanzania that most tourists skip. You will get to experience the town through the eyes of your guide, who is most likely a native of the area.
You’ll get a strong sense of the village’s social side during your stay as you see the farms, mills, schools, marketplaces, and churches. Although variable, tours typically take two to three hours. You could carry out any or all of the following: Most likely, you’ll begin on the village’s banana plantation, where more than 30 different varieties of bananas are grown. You will learn about the various applications of the plant as a whole, from food to materials for architecture and art, in addition to how this common fruit is grown.
You can learn about the many painting styles and techniques by visiting a youth art initiative. You can observe expert Makonde tribal members carefully carving elaborate figures, masks, and household items while visiting a woodworking business. They’ll demonstrate the various wood species and finishing’s, as well as some of the cultural and historical significance of the carvings. You may even try your hand at carving yourself. You are welcome to take pictures and ask questions about the artists.
You can go to a nearby “pub” to sample mbege, a traditional Chagga tribe beer made from millet and bananas. The creation of this beverage requires a lot of labor, and it is typically served in a sizable cup that is passed around the party and replenished as required.
Your journey will likely come to an end in the vibrant local market, where you may browse the fresh produce, meat, spices, and spice shops. Your tour guide will make stops to point out interesting sites and allow you a chance to sample and smell a range of foods.
What to expect during your village
Mto Wa Mbu is regarded as one of the few areas in Tanzania where people from all 120 tribes coexist together. It is a cultural melting pot. Despite the name translating to “Mosquito River,” because of the village’s reliable water supply, don’t wonder when you won’t encounter many mosquitoes.
Since your guide is almost certainly a native of the hamlet, you will have the rare opportunity to experience life there from his point of view. The length of the tours can vary, but is typically 2-3 hours. During your stay, you’ll get a good sense of the village’s social aspects, such as the farms and mills, schools, marketplaces, and churches. Your guide will gladly answer any questions you may have and will also assist you in learning about the inner workings of this typical Tanzanian neighborhood.
Other activities to do at Mto Wa Mbu
Hike to Empakai Crater:
The Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area region offers some excellent chances to take a break from a safari in a vehicle and get some exercise. The Ngorongoro Crater, its famous neighbor, is located about 40 kilometers to the northeast of the spectacular but little-known Empakai Crater.
You will be treated to magnificent vistas of the Empakai Crater and a sight of Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s most active volcano, from the time you arrive at Empakai. Then, followed by an expert guide and an NCA ranger, you’ll begin the 30–45 minute descent into the crater through thick, mountainous forest. There is excellent birdwatching around the lake on the crater floor, and there is an opportunity to view flamingos as well as some large wildlife, such as buffalo, hyenas, and elephants. It’s necessary to be reasonably fit, and it’s best to have shoes with good support.
Hadzabe and Datoga Tribes Pay a Visit:
Just south of the Ngorongoro Highlands, in and around Lake Eyasi, reside the Hadzabe Bushmen. In addition, the Datoga and Mbulu tribes reside in this area. It is possible to have a cultural encounter with the Hadzabe and the Datoga, who will show you their way of life. The Hadzabe, one of the oldest tribes in Africa, have never had to engage in farming and have always lived as hunters and gatherers. The Datoga are expert farmers and artisans. They raise chickens, donkeys, sheep, goats, and sheep. But by far, their most significant domesticated animal is the cow. Every animal’s flesh, fat, blood, milk, hide, horns, tendons, and feces are used for ritual or practical purposes.
Maasai Village Visit:
Several Maasai settlements are accessible to visit when on a Tanzania safari exploring Mto wa mbu village. Although you will meet many Maasai and have the chance to tour their community and learn about their culture, these settlements are close to the main roads, and some visitors have commented that the trip felt a little unsettling. You must pay $50 per vehicle, and you are urged to purchase some of their jewelry or crafts while you are there.
