Adventure
- Map of Tanzania
The Republic of Tanzania is a peaceful country in East Africa. It is home to approximately 40 million people from over 120 different ethnic groups and tribes including the world famous Masai herdsmen. After a history of colonial occupation by Arab traders, Germany and Great Britain, the Republic of Tanzania achieved full constitutional independence in 1965. Unlike many of its African neighbours, Tanzania has a peaceful history not blighted by ethnic violence. However, in common with many African countries, Tanzania suffers from poverty and the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS.
Tanzania is a beautiful country rich in natural resources and includes some of the most famous destinations in the world, such as Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, and the exotic island of Zanzibar.
ADVENTURE TRIPS:
During your stay in Mbeya you will be able to partake in a number of trips around the area, some of which are described below:
On the Road
MATEMA BEACH:
A boat on the beach.
This is by far the most exciting trip on the project and almost all volunteers end up going here. Matema Beach is located on the fresh water shore of Lake Malawi, 130km from Mbeya. To get there MAP uses various public transports, usually resulting in rather memorable journeys! From Daladala, to bigger buses, to 16 people squeezed into a land cruiser or with the wind (and dust) in your hair in the back of a pick-up… you name it, you will probably do it! The drive alone is exciting as the road winds through high mountains, past banana trees, market places and tea estates.
On arriving you will be stunned by the beauty of the beach, one of the most scenic in Tanzania, said to be on a par with Zanzibar. The warmth of the evening air will be a welcome relief after Mbeya’s cool evenings.
Adventure trip to Matema beach, Goba & Jeddah with volunteers.
2010 Volunteers hike Mbeya Mountain
Goba tending to the beach bonfire
At Matema you can swim, go on fishing trips, take out canoes, explore caves and waterfalls or just soak up the sun. There’ a volleyball net for the sporty and swing set for the young at heart! A short walk along the coast past cocoa, papaya, and avocado trees there is a small fishing village well known for its traditional clay pots. If you are really adventurous you can go in search of crocodiles and hippos at the mouth of the river. The evenings are for socialising and relaxing, usually involving beer and a beach fire accompanied by drumming and singing.
There is a choice of accommodation, either camping or in lovely beach huts that are clean and safe. Both are right on the beach. The restaurant affiliated with the huts and campsite serves food and there are numerous small local establishments that are much cheaper and a more authentic experience. Small, dried, salty fish are the local specialty. Be sure to try some!
School children posing with volunteers after a volleyball game
Crater Lake: Is situated 38km from Mbeya and is accessible by dala dala, the local buses. A two hour hike along a small footpaththrough dense tropical jungle and wild banana trees is rewarded by a stunning view over the crater rim into Crater Lake. It is possible to ascend down to the lake and swim, but there is no path to follow and you have to get back up again!
The View over Crater Lake
Hiking to the Natural Bridge
Hot springs: Coming soon…
Good vibes whilst out & about
Mbeya Peak: Mbeya is located in the valley of some of the most beautiful mountains in Tanzania, the famous Rift Valley. Mbeya peak is on such mountain that towers over Mbeya. It is a steep 4 hour climb reaching the height of 2,826m. The trek is very beautiful with numerous indigenous flowers and butterflies.
Hiking through the jungle.
Goba & Jeddah drumming
