Discover Mto wa Mbu, Arusha, Tanzania
Nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley’s escarpment and just a stone’s throw from Lake Manyara National Park, Mto wa Mbu is a vibrant town in northern Tanzania. Part of Arusha Region, this unique village serves as a gateway to some of Tanzania’s most famous wildlife destinations, including Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park. Over the years, Mto wa Mbu has evolved from a simple agricultural settlement into a cultural melting pot, attracting travelers, researchers, and adventure seekers from all over the world.
Mto wa Mbu is home to over 120 different Tanzanian tribes, making it the most ethnically diverse settlement in Tanzania. The town’s name, meaning “River of Mosquitoes” in Swahili, reflects its location along a lush, water-rich valley. The mix of tribes has brought a fascinating blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. This multicultural aspect is visible in local markets, food, artwork, and everyday life.
You will find Maasai pastoralists, Chagga banana farmers, Iraqw cultivators, and more, each contributing unique customs and stories to the town’s character. Village walks and guided tours provide immersive experiences, allowing visitors to learn about daily routines, traditional homes, farming techniques, and tribal clothing.
Mto wa Mbu, Arusha, Tanzania-Location
Mto wa Mbu is conveniently located along the main route connecting Arusha city to the northern national parks: Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti. It lies approximately 120km (75 miles) west of Arusha city and is easily reachable by car or bus. The town acts as a critical stopover for tourists exploring Tanzania’s Northern Circuit.
How to Get There
- By Road: From Arusha, it takes around two to three hours to reach Mto wa Mbu via the well-maintained Dodoma Road.
- Public Transport: Regular buses and minibuses (daladalas) connect Arusha and Mto wa Mbu.
- Private Transfers: Tour companies and lodges offer reliable transfers and safari vehicles, often included in safari packages.
Adventure and Ecotourism Activities
1. Bicycle Tours
One of the most popular ways to explore Mto wa Mbu is by bicycle. Several local tour operators offer guided cycling tours that take you through lush banana plantations, bustling markets, and traditional villages. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or prefer a leisurely ride, the flat landscapes make cycling accessible for everyone.
2. Walking Safaris
Unlike other places where walking safaris are limited, visitors in Mto wa Mbu can enjoy guided walks not only within the town but along the edges of Lake Manyara. Knowledgeable local guides share information about flora, fauna, and traditional uses of indigenous plants.
3. Canoeing on Lake Manyara
Enjoy canoeing trips on Lake Manyara (seasonal), which offer unique views of the lake-edge wildlife, such as hippos, flamingos, and an impressive variety of birdlife. Guided canoe tours present safe and enriching experiences for nature enthusiasts.
4. Mto Wa Mbu Local Lunch
Enjoy a traditional local lunch in Mto wa Mbu, prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding areas. This meal offers you a unique taste of Tanzanian cuisine, often including staples such as rice, plantains, beef stew, maize, and a variety of seasonal vegetables. Dining with local families or at a village restaurant provides the chance to learn more about the customs and daily life of the community.
5. Cultural Experiences
Mto wa Mbu is one of the best places to experience authentic Tanzanian culture. Visitors can join traditional cooking lessons, learn local dances, attend storytelling sessions, or even participate in local agricultural practices. Homestays with resident families offer a deeper understanding of village life.
6. Manyara Treetop Walkway
Experience the beauty of Lake Manyara’s forests from a different perspective by taking the Manyara Treetop Walkway. This 370-meter airwalk leads you through the treetops, over suspension bridges, and gives you an excellent vantage point for birdwatching and observing monkeys in their natural habitat. The walk is safe, guided, and suitable for all ages, offering an exciting adventure above the ground.
7. Manyara Forest Hike
Explore the lush landscapes of the Manyara forest on a guided hike. The trails take you through varying scenery, including dense woodlands, sparkling streams, and clearings with wide views of the Rift Valley. Along the way, you may encounter baboons, colorful birds, and learn about native plants. Your guide will explain the local wildlife and the importance of the forest to nearby communities.
8. Tuk Tuk Tour
Discover Mto wa Mbu’s vibrant town life on a Tuk Tuk tour. These three-wheeled vehicles provide a fun and convenient way to explore the busy markets, art shops, and farms. Your local guide will share insights about the area’s traditions, history, and diverse ethnic groups as you travel through the town’s lively streets, making stops at points of interest and photo opportunities.
Wildlife and National Parks near Mto wa Mbu
The surrounding wetlands and river courses attract birds and mammals. Birdwatchers can spot over 400 bird species, making the region a paradise for enthusiasts. Monkeys, antelopes, and even hippos can be spotted in the area’s lush landscapes. Mto wa Mbu serves as an ideal base for visiting several key wildlife attractions:
- Lake Manyara National Park: The entrance is just outside the town; the park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, vast elephant herds, and flocks of flamingos.
- Tarangire National Park: About 50km south, home to the largest concentration of elephants in Tanzania and iconic baobab trees.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Approximately 60km northwest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and haven for abundant wildlife.
Art, Handicrafts, and Souvenir Shopping
Mto wa Mbu is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. Artisans produce intricate wood carvings, batik fabrics, Maasai beadwork, and paintings inspired by everyday life and wildlife. Visit cooperative workshops where you can observe artisans at work and purchase authentic souvenirs. Buying directly supports the local economy and helps preserve traditional skills.
Staying Safe in Mto wa Mbu
Mto wa Mbu is considered safe for tourists. However, it is wise to follow standard travel precautions:
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Secure your belongings.
- Respect local customs, especially when visiting villages.
- Use local guides for village, nature, and wildlife tours for the most enriching and safe experience.
Health Considerations
Due to the proximity to wetlands, mosquitoes are common. To minimize malaria risk, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening, and sleep under a mosquito net.
Accommodation Options in and Near Mto Wa Mbu
Mto wa Mbu provides a range of accommodation to suit all budgets:
- Budget Guesthouses and Campsites: Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers, featuring basic amenities and friendly local hosts.
- Mid-Range Lodges: These offer comfortable rooms, good food, and essential services such as guided tours.
- Luxury Tented Camps: Overlook Lake Manyara and the Rift Valley with all-inclusive services, perfect for visitors seeking a safari experience with comfort.
Many lodges and camps are eco-friendly, blending with the environment and using sustainable practices to minimize their footprint.
Supporting the Community
Mto wa Mbu is at the forefront of community-based tourism. Many activities, such as village walks, homestays, handicraft shopping, and cultural experiences, directly benefit local families and projects. By choosing locally owned lodges and guides, you help promote sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Ready to Book your Safari with Mto wa Mbu?
Mto wa Mbu, Arusha, Tanzania, is a town that invites you to slow down, look deeper, and connect with the land and its people. As a crossroads of tribes and cultures, a gateway to world-class wildlife, and a model of sustainable community tourism, Mto wa Mbu stands among the best places in Africa for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.
Whenever you plan your Tanzanian trip, make sure Mto wa Mbu is on your itinerary. Whether it’s for a day’s stopover or a week-long immersion, you’re guaranteed to leave with a richer understanding of the people, landscapes, and traditions that define this beautiful country.. Read our TripAdvisor Reviews
