Maasai Villages in Ngorongoro

OVERVIEW

This area in Ngorongoro was originally inhabited by the Dorobo, hunters-gatherers who migrated down from the Lower Nile and were later subordinated to the Maasai.
The Maasai came to this area 200 years ago and they have progressively chased the Barbaig who moved to the border of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, near the Lake Eyasi; in this way the Maasai remained the only ethnic group in this area.
When the Ngorongoro Conservation Area was founded in 1959, it was established that the land would be used as nature reserve and would have preserved the rights of the indigenous people and the development of tourism; this is the only place in Tanzania where men can inhabit a protected area.

Detailed Itinerary

In the morning you will drive to Ngorongoro and get a chance to visit one of the Maasai villages. On arrival at the village, expect to be greeted in the traditional manner: plenty of singing and dancing, with participation very much encouraged! There is a great opportunity to learn about some of the traditional practices such as fire-making and beadwork. You may also get the chance to meet and speak to villagers in their homes – questions are very welcome and your guide will happily interpret if needed. It is worth noting that it can be quite smoky in the houses if the fires are lit inside.
During your visit, there is also the opportunity to purchase handmade leather and beadwork from the villagers, although these are also available in the camp shop.

At the end of the activities you will continue onwards with your game drive inside the crater floor and afterwards depart to your onwards journey.

Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Duration: 1-1.5 hours

Difficulty: Medium