CULTURAL SAFARIS
If you’re visiting East Africa, you’ll no doubt want to do more than just admire the wildlife; you’ll also want to discover the many facets of these countries, their people and their customs. With a cultural tour, we aim to offer you an experience that showcases the local culture in a respectful manner and benefits both sides. nitoursandsafaris has selected some of the best cultural experiences in Tanzania for you.
Must-see attractions:
Stone Town
The cultural and historical heart of Zanzibar is the lively town of Stone Town. On a walking tour, you can wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and discover interesting sites such as the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, Darajani Market, the Sultan’s Palace and the Slave Market. You will also be able to admire the fascinating architectural styles of various nations. Stone Town is a melting pot of Arab, Persian, Indian and European cultures, which is what makes the town so unique.
MAASAII VILLAGE
Discover the way of life of the graceful Maasai warriors, which remains unchanged to this day, during a visit to their village. The Maasai are a nomadic people who herd and breed cattle and are known for their lively cultural dances, colourful clothing and beadwork. During your stay in the village, you can experience Maasai dances, watch the warriors demonstrate the art of fire-making, observe spear-throwing and look over the women’s shoulders as they make beaded jewellery. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is an ideal place to visit a Maasai village.
Mto Wa Mbu Village
On a guided tour, you will experience the farming village of Mto Wa Mbu, which means ‘village on the Mosquito River’, and the traditional way of life of the villagers. This unique village in Tanzania is home to over 120 different tribes from across Africa, creating a colourful mix of languages and customs. You can visit local farms, schools, homes and the market, sample Tanzanian specialities and chat with the locals. The village is surrounded by stunning countryside and lies on the main road leading to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Hadzabe and Datoga
Discover Lake Eyasi. Lake Eyasi is an unspoilt and scenically beautiful area where you can gain a genuine insight into the way of life of rural tribes such as the Datoga and the Hadzabe Bushmen. The Datoga are farmers and silversmiths who make iron knives and spears. The Hadzabe hunt wild animals with bows and arrows and subsist on roots, honey and wild fruits. Visit this habitat too and experience their culture up close. You can take part in their daily activities such as hunting and making fire. For many people, these encounters are among the most valuable and unforgettable experiences of their safari.
Sauti za Busara Music Festival
This is a magnificent African music festival held every February. With a mix of music, dance, theatre and a carnival-style street parade, Sauti za Busara is one of the largest music festivals in East Africa, featuring hundreds of artists. The four-day festival takes place within the walls of the Old Fort in Zanzibar’s Stone Town. It showcases the diversity and richness of East African music and its unique culture. It is truly a unique event with a fantastic atmosphere.
Wanyambo Festival
Now you can immerse yourself in Tanzania’s local culture by visiting the Wanyambo Festival in Dar es Salaam in January. Every year, hundreds of people take part in this four-day festival, which is held at the Makumbusho Village Museum in Dar es Salaam. A cultural gathering featuring traditional dances, music, costumes, art, crafts and regional cuisine.