tribes of tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater East – Lemala Camp

Is the drive around the crater worth staying on the eastern side?

Ngorongoro crater

We think so…..especially if you get to stay somewhere as refreshing as Lemala’s lovely camp on the rim, like Shadows of Africa recent safari guests, Robert Humphreys and friends.

Sundowners under the Lahai – Ngorongoro crater east side at Lemala camp

The east side of Ngorongoro Crater is blessed with the exquisite Acacia Lahai trees – magical and reminiscent of shapes from a Tolkien novel, looming out of the mist. Beneath these majestic trees the camp is welcoming and warm and comfortable – all that you need after a long day of game drives and excitement.

Warmth on the east side of the Ngorongoro Crater in Lemala camp

The east of the crater also ‘own’ the Olmoti and Empakai craters where you can walk and take in the flora and fauna as well as wander amongst the Maasai and their cattle in the grasslands that abound. A welcome diversion after a few days driving around the Serengeti, these walks in the Ngorongoro highlands get you up close and personal.

It’s a bit different, slightly off the beaten track, and a whole lot more interesting.

Take the time to explore……book your safari now!

Take a Cultural Safari with the Tribes of Tanzania

A Captivating Combination

Wildlife, Community, And Culture Across A Multitude of Scenic Soda Lakes

Wildlife in Tanzania would not exist without the communities that are an integral part and parcel of its ecosystems and landscapes; only to experience this is to comprehend. Our 9-day safari was designed especially with this in mind.

Introduced to Africa with a day on the beguilingly beautifully forested slopes of Mt Meru volcano in Arusha National Park, and the fascinating different colors of the Momella lakes, we then headed out to the elephants and baobabs of Tarangire National Park and across to the groundwater forests and spectacular shores of Manyara National Park, witnessing a first glimpse of the vast array of wildlife that Tanzania has to offer.

Dropping down to the expansive views of Lake Eyasi under the shadows of the Ngorongoro Highlands we were fascinated both with the scenery and with the different cultures of the people.

First observing the blacksmithing skills of the Datoga, we then had the most incredible encounter with the hunter-gather Hadzabe, joining them for a hunt in lands now protected for their way of life. Numbering only around 1,000, they have lived successfully with their nature in this harsh and dry environment for thousands of years.

Moving on just got better. Driving up into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, we camped right on the rim of the crater, saw rhino in the caldera and then drove on into Serengeti National Park and spent three breathtaking days in the company of millions of wildebeest, zebra, lion, hippo, buffalo, elephant, topi, impala, and warthog.

The finale was no less engaging. I have never taken in a landscape as alluring as Lake Natron, the Ol Donyo Lengai volcano and the Masonic mountains.

In this dry and thought-provoking environment, we gained yet more insight into the people of Tanzania. Learning about the Maasai, first hand, we returned to our starting point, Arusha, in awe of this country, its culture and its wildlife.

                                 Can’t wait to experience a safari for yourself: contact us today!

Experience Tribal Culture with Cultural Tours in East Africa

Combining Wildlife & Cultural Experience

Our adventurous customers, David and Carol decided to include the most interesting spots in Tanzania in a short time. They started with a walking and canoeing safari in Arusha National Park, which is a perfect option to add to the usual game drive.
Of course they didn’t miss famous Tarangire National Park, where you can find huge herds of elephants this season. After overnighting in Tarangire Safari Lodge with its amazing view of the Tarangire River, they continued with a game drive in Serengeti National Park. They really loved it and were lucky to see lots of predators very close! Lions, cheetahs, and even a leopard showed up during their game drive. Stunning Ngorongoro Crater impressed them even more with its gorgeous views and variety of wildlife.

After a tiring safari, the travelers and our guide, Bashiru visited Amini Life Maasai Lodge for some well-earned relaxation. It is a perfect place to explore Maasai culture and even participate in some tribal activities.

Before coming back home, David and Carol had a chance to get closer to Kilimanjaro. What a perfect option before the flight! Instead of sitting at their hotel, they had a tour to Marangu village, learned about Chaga culture in the ancient caves, trekked to a beautiful waterfall, and tried fresh coffee on the local coffee plantation.
We agree with our customers that you need to explore different sides of Africa and combine your tour with lots of cultural experiences! It gives you the opportunity to experience the real lives of local people.

The Masai: Africa's Most Famous Tribal People

The Hadzabe Tribe: Ancient Hunter-Gatherers

The Hadzabe live in caves and try to stay away from other people. Their territory is Lake Eyasi, but through the years they have been left with only a trace of the vast lands that were their own.