Itinerary

1. Day 1: Cultural Tour & Cycling Exploration in Mto wa Mbu

   Morning

   • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional breakfast at your accommodation.
   • Cycling Tour Start: Meet your guide for a briefing and bike fitting. Begin your cycling journey through the lush landscapes and fields surrounding Mto wa Mbu.
   • Local Farm Visit: Cycle through local farms and banana plantations. Learn about the different types of bananas grown here and how they are used to make banana beer and juice.
   • Village Tour: Visit various ethnic communities in Mto wa Mbu, home to over 120 groups. Take part in cultural experiences like:
   • Traditional Painting Workshop at a Makonde crafts center.
   • Weaving Demonstration with local artisans making mats and baskets.

   Lunch

   • Community Meal: Enjoy a local meal prepared by a women’s group. Savor traditional dishes like ugali (cornmeal porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), and a variety of vegetables.

   Afternoon

   • Explore the Market: Cycle to the lively Mto wa Mbu market, known for its colorful fruits, vegetables, spices, and local crafts.
   • Scenic Ride: Continue cycling through acacia woodlands and near the edge of Lake Manyara. Enjoy the stunning views and birdlife along the way.
   • Sunset Ride: Conclude your day with a peaceful ride through the village pathways, finishing with panoramic views of the Rift Valley escarpment.

   Evening

   • Return to your accommodation for dinner and a restful evening.

2. Day 2: Cultural Activities & Scenic Ride

   Morning

   • Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge.
   • Visit a Maasai Boma: Cycle to a nearby Maasai village to learn about their customs, traditional dress, and daily life. Experience Maasai dance performances and traditional storytelling.
   • Traditional Food Preparation & Tasting: Join the local community to prepare a traditional meal using indigenous ingredients. Learn about Maasai food culture and cooking techniques.

   Lunch

   • Community-Based Lunch: Enjoy the meal you helped prepare with the local community, savoring the flavors of the region.

   Afternoon

   • Scenic Trail Cycling: Cycle through rice paddies, small streams, and lush forests surrounding Mto wa Mbu. The scenic trails provide a peaceful and immersive experience in nature.
   • Farewell Drink: End the adventure with a refreshing drink made from local ingredients at a community cooperative.

   Evening

   • Return to Arusha or your next destination, concluding your 2-day cycling and cultural adventure.