Meet the Hadzabe
Trip Overview
Meet the Hadzabe
Escape the well-trodden main safari circuit of Northern Tanzania and explore the Yaeda Valley, to the southwest of the Ngorongoro Crater. The area is home to the Hadzabe, who are traditional hunter-gatherer people who have one of the richest and most interesting histories. You will be accompanied by an expert guide who has a long-standing relationship with the group. This short trip offers a unique chance to learn and witness first-hand how the Hadza live off the land. Their bush skills are something that has been long forgotten across much of Africa, and time spent with the Hadza offers a very raw and authentic cultural experience – something you will never forget.
Your time spent with the Hadza is structured but is not this is not a trip staged for tourists. This is very much part of the appeal, but does mean that if you venture out with the Hadza men on a hunt, you will need to be able to keep up. The men run through the bush and if they find an animal to hunt, they will do so (and subsequently prepare and cook it on a fire). They do not hold back from doing this, even when tourists accompany them, as it is their way of life.
It is also possible to spend time with the women of the tribe and learn about the gatherer side of their traditions and skills, which is equally insightful and fascinating. Visitors who are not interested in the hunting aspect of this Adventure are welcome to choose this option instead. Your guide will brief you fully on the evening of Day 1 to make sure everyone knows what to expect.
Itinerary Details
You will be picked up from Manyara Airstrip or Karatu by your guide and 4×4 vehicle and driven through the Ngorongoro highlands and down into the Lake Eyasi basin, characterised by open grasslands, rocky ridges and hundreds of baobab trees. The drive takes approximately 4 hours from Karatu, and you will arrive in the late afternoon at your fly camp in the Yaeda Valley. Spend the evening learning more about the days to come from your guide, gaining an understanding of the Hadzabe people, their traditions and skills and also the wider area.
Popular Activities
Walking
Fly camping
Cultural visits
Good to Know
What Is Included In This Adventure?
Private fly camp and guided activities with the Hadzabe, all relevant concession and bed night fees, all meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 3, house drinks (soft drinks, beers, house wine, local spirits), private 4×4 transfers starting and ending at either Karatu or Manyara airstrip, Asilia conservation charge, and Medevac cover.
Fly Camping Facilities
Simple dome tents with camp beds, accommodating two guests per tent. All bedding and towels are provided. There is also a shared toilet and solar shower tent, and a basin with a jug of water for washing hands/face, etc.
