Maasai Cultural tour

1 – 3 Days depending on time

All youngsters born and raised in the village, with good knowledge of English

Started at the end of 1999. The profit is used to improve the Kioga and Ilkidinga primary schools. Your visit helps to give the children a better education. The people of Ilkiding’a offer you a view into the Wa-arusha tribe culture, a warm welcome in local households and relaxing walks through the crop fields, narrow footpaths, canyons and small hills. Be prepared to enjoy a delicious hot traditional meal and tea prepared by the Maasai women.

Start with a visit to Sembeo’s Boma where several traditionally built roundhouses give you an idea of how an extended family lives together. Sembeo will show how traditional Maasai knives are made. Walking through the fields of crops and enjoying the view overlooking Arusha town at Ilkisongo you will reach the house of the traditional healer. He will be ready to answer all your questions and give you advice if you need it. Then you head to the narrow Njeche canyon where abundant tropical plants cover caves and rocky walls. Enjoy a refreshing cup of traditional tea made by Mama Naomi. At the end of the tour a visit to the Mainyoito Women Group is worth-while. They produce traditional Maasai jewelry and mitungi – clay pots used to collect water.

Take a shorter trail through the fields, stop at Sembeo’s Boma and after crossing the Ngarenaro River, reach Leloto hill viewpoint, which overlooks Arusha town. Hike through the villages to reach Leina viewpoint on the boundary of the forest reserve. From there you head off to visit the boma of Maasai Craftsmen group. the members make small wooden stools and knives. Taste the local honey and be given a step by step demonstration of the local methods of collection from beehive. This tour is a must if you are a birdwatcher. Many different species of birds can be seen along the trail, including the beautiful Hartlaub’s Turaco. Later in the day, enjoy a traditional Maasai hot meal prepared by the Mainyoito Women Group. 

For those who enjoy hiking, this is the best tour for you. Crossing small rivers and walking through the forest reserve, this is the best way to explore and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the villages on the foothills of Mt. Meru. The nights are spent at local Maasai bomas, where you  can pitch your tent. The friendly people make you welcome. Hot meals are prepared at Martim and Ngoibelie’s Bomas and at Ilkurot Campsite. Fruit can be bought along the way. The tour ends at Ngaramtoni, where transport will be waiting for you.