Description
This 3-day immersive tour is perfect for
travelers who want to go beyond game drives and connect with real people and
places. Explore the vibrant agricultural town of Mto wa Mbu by Tuk Tuk, hike
through farms and forests, taste local foods, and enjoy a relaxed safari
through the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park.
It’s an excellent soft-adventure and
culture-rich experience for families, students, and anyone looking for
something authentic and educational.
Inclusions:
- Private vehicle and professional English-speaking guide
- 2 nights accommodation (lodge or eco-camp)
- All meals and bottled water
- Entry fees for park and cultural activities
- Guided hike, Tuk Tuk ride, and village tours
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Arusha/Karatu)
Exclusions:
- Alcoholic drinks
- International flights (from/to)
- Tips (tipping guideline $20 pp per day)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Schedule
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Day 1Arusha to Mto wa Mbu: Community & Culture
Depart Arusha in the morning and drive through the scenic highlands to Mto wa Mbu, a bustling multicultural town nestled at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment.
Upon arrival, hop on a Tuk Tuk for a guided tour through banana plantations, local homes, and rice paddies. Visit a local market, see local craftspeople at work, and learn about the more than 120 tribes living in the area.
Enjoy a freshly prepared Swahili lunch served by a women’s cooperative, followed by a visit to a local school or village project.
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Day 2Great Rift Valley Hike & Maasai Boma Visit
After breakfast, take a scenic walk up the Rift Valley escarpment with panoramic views over Lake Manyara and the valley below. This guided walk takes you through forest, traditional irrigation channels, and local farms.
In the afternoon, visit an authentic Maasai boma outside town. Engage in respectful cultural exchange, learn about the Maasai lifestyle, and witness traditional dances and storytelling. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
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Day 3Lake Manyara Safari & Return to Arusha
Start your final day with an exciting game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Famous for its lush forests, tree-climbing lions, and flocks of flamingos, this park offers a different landscape than the savannahs of Serengeti or Tarangire.
Enjoy wildlife sightings near the lake and picnic lunch in the park. In the afternoon, drive back to Arusha, arriving by early evening.