6 Days walking and Maasai experience
Introduction:
Embark on a thrilling 6 Days Walking and Maasai Experience, where adventure meets culture in the heart of Tanzania. This immersive journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, from dense forests and valleys to the shores of Lake Natron, all while connecting you with the Maasai and Batemi communities. Expect to encounter wildlife, learn about traditional Maasai ways of life, and hike through diverse terrains with stunning views of volcanoes and the Rift Valley. Each day brings a new discovery, offering both challenge and beauty in equal measure.
Day 1
- Arrival & Journey to Osupuko
- After an early breakfast, your Maasai guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to Loliondo, where you’ll stay at Osupuko campsite. En route, enjoy views of the active volcano and Lake Natron. After a break, take a short hike through the adjacent forests, where you may spot the Colobus monkeys swinging through the trees. On the way back, meet the Maasai village families for a warm welcome. (Driving time: 7hrs)
- Overnight: Osupuko campsite
Day 2
- Hiking to Sonjo Valley
- After breakfast, start hiking through the woods and bushes towards Sonjo Valley. Stop for lunch with panoramic views of the valley, home to the Batemi ethnic group, known for their complex irrigation systems. Continue hiking through forests, over steppes, and past settlements, before reaching a village with a warm welcome from the local families.
- Walking time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 19 km
- Overnight: Tent camp near round huts
Day 3
- Hiking to Digodigo
- Continue your hike along a flat path, passing through a rainforest and river, with opportunities to spot a variety of birds and tropical plants. After lunch and crossing a small river, continue to the village of Digodigo, where you will camp near a small clinic. In the afternoon, visit the clinic and walk through the village to experience local life.
- Walking time: 4 hours
- Distance: 11 km
- Overnight: Tent camp
Day 4
- Hiking to Masusu
- Start early, hiking through dry, warmer climates towards Lake Natron. Walk through bushes and acacia forests, where you may see colorful birds and herons. Along the way, pass Batemi villages before entering Maasai land. You may meet Maasai children with their herds, women collecting firewood or water, and Maasai warriors. After lunch, you’ll have your first view of Lake Natron at the foot of Oldoinyo Lengai, the “holy mountain of the Maasai.”
- Walking time: 5-6 hours
- Distance: 17 km
- Overnight: Masusu village
Day 5
- Hiking to Lake Natron
- Your last hiking day begins early to avoid the afternoon heat. Descend into the Rift Valley for stunning views of Lake Natron and the active Oldoinyo Lengai volcano. Enjoy lunch near the “beaches” of Lake Natron, where flamingos and pelicans gather. After lunch, take a vehicle to Engaresero, where you will rest at Lengai Camp and enjoy the volcano views. In the afternoon, there’s an optional hike to the Engaresero Waterfalls, a source of fresh water for the surrounding villages.
- Walking time: 4-5 hours
- Distance: 21 km
- Overnight: Lengai Camp
Day 6
- DepartureOn your final day, leave the volcano behind and drive to Ketumbeine. The route offers the famous “African Massage,” as you pass through bumpy terrain. From Ketumbeine, you’ll be driven to the airport for your flight back home.
Inclusions:
- 5 nights of camping with full board (B/L/D)
- Maasai and local guide services
- Park and village entry fees
- Hiking equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Transport for the entire itinerary, including safari vehicles
- Water and meals during hikes
- Visit to Maasai villages and local cultural experiences
- Visit to Engaresero Waterfalls and other natural attractions
- Airport transfers at the start and end of the tour
This 6 Days Walking and Maasai Experience is designed for those looking for an adventurous yet culturally rich experience in one of Tanzania’s most fascinating regions. Get ready to trek through diverse landscapes, learn about local traditions, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush.
