Things to do in Mto wa Mbu
When planning a safari to Tanzania, often the first thing that comes to mind is the sight of lions, elephants, giraffes and zebras in the national parks. But what about getting to know the people and culture? We recommend staying two nights in the lovely village of Mto wa Mbu in Manyara region and take advantage of the myriad exceptional optional activities offered here. Booking an extra night in town lets you see, hear and feel the flow of Tanzanian life, leaving you with a broader perspective on East Africa. While many vehicles pass through the village on the way to Ngorongoro or Serengeti, you will be on the ground learning about Tanzanian life.
Mto wa Mbu is a town home to more than 20,000 people, with over 120 tribes represented. Walking around the streets and “chocho” (side streets) you will see, smell, hear and immerse yourself in the culture. There are a variety of activities to choose from, and we recommend choosing at least two in a day to take full advantage. Read on to find out more about the activities you can choose from:
1. Biking Through the Village
Forget the safari truck for a minute and hop on a bike. This is the best way to move through Mto wa Mbu, rolling through banana farms, dirt roads, and backstreets where real life happens. You’ll pass vibrant market stalls, rice paddies, and local workshops where carvers and painters bring their art to life. You’ll stop at a local bar to see how mbege (banana beer) is made. You’ll move with the flow of the village, not just watch it from a window.
2. Local Tanzanian Lunch
One of the best ways to understand and get to know a place is through its food. You’ll sit down for a home-cooked Tanzanian meal, made fresh right there in the village. Expect rice, beans, ugali, grilled meat, vegetables and more straight from the local farms. No fancy setups, no tourist fluff- just real food, real people, real stories in the heart of a banana grove. We recommend checking this option out on your last day before heading out to the airport.
3. Ziplining Over the Baobabs
It’s time to fly! The zipline in Mto wa Mbu takes you through the trees, between massive baobabs, with the Rift Valley stretching out in the distance. It’s a thrill with incredible views, and it’s a whole different way to experience the land. Run by Foot on Africa, this zipline lets you see the area from above, moving through spaces you wouldn’t touch on foot. Great for family groups or anyone looking for an adrenaline filled adventure.
Why Mto wa Mbu?
Because this is Tanzania too, more than the national parks and wildlife, Tanzania is a country full of creative, welcoming and special people. Come see how life is lived, you won’t regret it!
