Mto wa Mbu Village Tour and Walk

Mto wa Mbu, a small village in Northern Tanzania, is an extraordinary cultural mosaic where representatives from all 120 of Tanzania’s tribal groups converge, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage. With a population of around 20,000, this farming community thrives amidst stunning landscapes, just before the town of Karatu on the main road to Ngorongoro and the Serengeti. Known as ‘Mosquito River’ due to its perennial water source, Mto wa Mbu is paradoxically a place of vibrant life rather than a haven for mosquitoes.

The village tour and walk immerse you in local life, showcasing the daily activities and cultural practices of the community. Begin your journey through the banana plantations where over 30 varieties are cultivated. Here, not only will you learn about banana farming, but also about how the plant is used in various aspects of life, from food to construction and craft.

Your guide, a local from Mto wa Mbu, will lead you through this cultural tapestry. You’ll visit a youth art group to witness different painting techniques, where you can interact with artists and perhaps even take home a piece of Tanzanian art. Moving on, the Makonde tribe’s wood workshop offers an opportunity to observe traditional carving, where artisans explain the cultural significance behind each piece. You might even try your hand at carving under their guidance.

A visit to a local ‘bar’ introduces you to ‘mbege’, a traditional beer made from bananas and millet, primarily enjoyed by the Chagga tribe. This communal drinking experience is a highlight, offering insights into local customs and the social fabric of village life.

The tour culminates at the bustling market, a sensory overload with its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and the cacophony of commerce. Here, you’ll experience the heart of Mto wa Mbu’s economy, where every stall tells a story of local produce, crafts, and the intermingling of cultures.

Location

Mto wa Mbu is strategically located in the heart of Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit, approximately 120km from Arusha. Situated near Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and on the route to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, it serves as a perfect stopover or base for exploring Tanzania’s natural wonders and cultural richness. The village is accessible by regular bus from Arusha or via the Lake Manyara airstrip for those flying in.

Day Tour and Itinerary

A typical half-day tour in Mto wa Mbu might look like this:

• Morning Start: Pick up from your accommodation and head to Mto wa Mbu. Tours can be scheduled for mornings or afternoons to suit your travel itinerary.
• Banana Plantation: Begin with a walk through the banana plantations, learning about the different uses of the banana plant.
• Youth Art Group: Visit local artists, see painting techniques, and engage with the community’s creative youth.
• Makonde Wood Workshop: Watch artisans carve, learn about the Makonde tribe’s history, and perhaps try carving yourself.
• Local Bar: Taste mbege and learn about its significance in local culture.
• Village Market: Explore the market, tasting local produce and spices, experiencing the economic heartbeat of the village.
• Optional Lunch: If you opt for the local lunch, enjoy a meal prepared in a traditional Tanzanian style, enhancing your cultural immersion.
• Afternoon: Return to your starting point or continue with other activities like a farm visit or a Maasai tour if you extend your stay.

What Makes This Tour Unique

• Cultural Diversity: Mto wa Mbu is one of the few places in Tanzania where such a vast number of tribes coexist, offering a unique cultural experience.
• Local Guide Insight: Having a guide from the village provides an authentic perspective, making your experience deeply personal and insightful.
• Community Engagement: The tour supports local economies through fees that contribute to community projects, fostering sustainable tourism.
• Eco-Tourism: Activities like visiting farms or learning about traditional practices promote awareness of environmental and cultural preservation.
• Interactive Learning: From trying traditional beer to participating in art or carving, the hands-on approach of this tour makes learning about Tanzania’s culture engaging and memorable.

Stay at MoonBow Lodge

After your enriching tour of Mto wa Mbu, MoonBow Lodge offers the perfect place to unwind:

• Proximity: Located near Mto wa Mbu, it’s an ideal base for further exploration or relaxation after your village tour.
• Cultural Experience: The lodge itself often hosts cultural evenings or provides information on local activities, enhancing your stay with additional cultural touchpoints.
• Comfort: Offering full board, the lodge ensures you enjoy Tanzanian cuisine prepared with local ingredients, providing a taste of the region in a comfortable setting.
• Activities: Beyond the village tour, MoonBow can organize other outings like visits to nearby parks or cultural exchanges with Maasai communities.
• Nature: Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Rift Valley, the lodge offers stunning views and a peaceful retreat from the day’s adventures.