3-Day Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire & Maasai Cultural Safar
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation in one unforgettable day. Hike to the stunning Materuni Waterfalls, dive into Chagga traditions with a hands-on coffee experience, and unwind in the crystal-clear Kikuletwa Hot Springs. Led by local guides and crafted for real connection—not crowds—this tour is a true taste of Tanzania.
Available options
3-Day Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire & Maasai Cultural Safar
Pickup included
What's included
Admission Fee
Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
While on your drive, your guide will share rich stories about the Chagga people, the surrounding Kilimanjaro region, and the deep cultural roots of coffee farming in this fertile land. As you leave the town behind, the scenery begins to change—rolling green hills, misty mountain slopes, and charming villages greet you on the road to Materuni.
2
After exploring the lush highlands of Materuni, your adventure transitions to the open savannahs as you head toward the Kikuletwa Hot Springs—a peaceful oasis tucked away in the middle of dry scrubland.
Along the way, your guide will share stories about the Maasai communities who live in the area, the unique underground water systems that feed these springs, and the legends that surround them
What's not included
Binoculars and Camera
Beverage and Alcohol
Insurance
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
A driver from company will pick you up with a car with our own logo and a T-shirt.
About Mto wa Mbu
Mto wa Mbu is a vibrant and culturally rich town located on the southern shore of Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania. Known for its diverse ethnic communities, including the Datoga, Iraqw, and Maasai, the town offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, scenic landscapes, and adventurous activities. It's a gateway to some of Tanzania's most stunning natural attractions, including the Great Rift Valley and the Serengeti National Park.
Top Attractions
Lake Eyasi
Lake Eyasi is a shallow, soda lake located just south of the Serengeti Plain. It's a beautiful and scenic spot, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse wildlife. The lake is also home to several ethnic communities, including the Hadzabe and Datoga, who maintain their traditional way of life.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore, guided tours may cost $20-$50
Hadzabe Cultural Experience
The Hadzabe are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in Tanzania. Visitors can join them on a hunting expedition, learn about their traditional way of life, and experience their unique culture and customs.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Approximately $30-$50 per person
Mto wa Mbu Market
The Mto wa Mbu Market is a bustling and colorful market where locals gather to buy and sell fresh produce, livestock, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture, sample traditional foods, and pick up unique souvenirs.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, prices for goods vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, typically beef, goat, or chicken, marinated in spices and cooked over an open flame. It's a popular dish throughout Tanzania and a must-try in Mto wa Mbu.
Main Course
Contains meat
Ugali
A staple food made from maize flour and water, cooked to a thick, dough-like consistency. It's typically served with a sauce or stew and is a common side dish in Tanzanian cuisine.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Tilapia
Freshly caught tilapia fish, grilled or fried and served with a side of ugali or chips. Mto wa Mbu is known for its delicious and fresh tilapia, thanks to its proximity to Lake Eyasi.
Main Course
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking and trekking
Game drives
Hot air balloon safaris
Scenic walks
Birdwatching
Cultural tours
Hadzabe and Datoga cultural experiences
Maasai village visits
Best Time to Visit
June to October
The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The skies are clear, and the landscapes are lush and green, making it ideal for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
18°C to 30°C
64°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Swahili
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mto wa Mbu is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas and markets.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- • Be wary of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
Getting there
By air
- Arusha Airport • 60 km (37 miles)
By bus
Arusha Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Daladala are the primary means of public transport in Mto wa Mbu. They are small, shared minibuses that operate on fixed routes and are relatively inexpensive.
Taxis
Available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Mto wa Mbu
Lake Eyasi Area
Day trips
Serengeti National Park
Approximately 150 km (93 miles) • Full day to overnight
The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world, known for its vast plains, diverse wildlife, and the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Approximately 120 km (75 miles) • Full day to overnight
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning crater, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The area is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world's largest intact volcanic calderas.
Festivals
Mto wa Mbu Cultural Festival • Annual, typically held in July or August
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and authentic experience.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the climate can be hot and dry.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites or cultural villages.
- Be cautious of pickpockets and petty crime in crowded areas and markets.
- Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season and local festivals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
