Arusha/Moshi to Mto wa Mbu Cultural Village Tour
Early in the morning, you will set out for your tour to Mto wa Mbu. It takes almost 2 hours to get there. On arrival, you will meet your guide, who is likely to be from the village itself, giving you the opportunity to see the community through the guide's eyes. During your visit, you will get a good feel for the social side of the village - the farms and milling machines, the schools, markets, and churches. Tours last around 2-3 hours but are flexible.
You will probably start in the village banana plantation, where the community grows more than 30 varieties of bananas. As well as finding out how this staple fruit is grown, you will hear about the different uses of the plant as a whole, from food to materials for building and art.
You may visit a youth art project and learn about the different painting styles and techniques. You can also visit a wood workshop to watch skilled members of the Makonde tribe carefully carving intricate figurines, masks, and household objects. They will show you the different types of wood and finishes and explain some of the historical and cultural meanings behind the carvings. You can even have a go at doing some carving yourself. The artists are happy for you to ask questions and take photos.
You may also visit a local bar to try Mbege, the traditional banana and millet beer brewed and drunk mainly by the Chagga tribe. Making this brew is quite labour-intensive, and the beer is usually served in one large cup, passed around the group and refilled as needed. Your tour will probably finish in the bustling local market, where you can wander around stalls selling fruit, vegetables, spices, and meat.
After that, you will have lunch and then get ready to return to Arusha/Moshi for your next schedule. You will be back at your hotel.
Accommodation: (OPTION)
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight stay: (Arusha - Moshi Town)
