Lake Eyasi – Hadzabe Bushmen Day Tour

Lake Eyasi is a saltwater lake located in the eastern branch of Africa’s Rift Valley in northern Tanzania. It is situated at the southwestern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and covers an area of about 1,050 square kilometers (405 square miles). The lake is fed by several small rivers and streams but has no outlet, resulting in high levels of salinity.

The indigenous Hadza and Datoga tribes are the primary inhabitants of the Lake Eyasi region. They have traditionally relied on hunting and gathering for their sustenance, and their unique way of life has attracted anthropological interest. The Hadzabe Tribe lives in the dry terrain near Lake Eyasi, south of Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania. They have existed in this region for over 3000 years. We have time to go hunting with them for about an hour or two, walking, running, crawling through bushes, and looking in the shrubs for birds, antelopes, and larger herbivores.  The women gather fruits, berries, tubers, and greens. The local guide who is a member of the tribe teaches you more about how they hunt, track wildlife, make fires, and even take honey from bee’s nests before introducing you to his people and explaining a little more about the customs and the way of life.

The lake’s surroundings are diverse and include grassy plains, rocky hills, and acacia woodlands. It serves as a vital habitat for various bird species, particularly flamingos, pelicans, and storks. The lake’s shores are also frequented by wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, elephants, and various antelope species.

Lake Eyasi is a popular destination for travellers seeking cultural experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Visitors can engage in activities like bird watching, guided walks with local tribes, traditional hunting experiences, and cultural immersion programs.

It’s important to note that the water levels of Lake Eyasi can vary greatly depending on the rainfall patterns in the region. As a result, the lake’s size and appearance may change throughout the year.

If time permitting we will visit the Datoga or Barbaig Tribe (Blacksmiths) and see the work of a local blacksmith where spears, rings, earrings, and local silver are forged and worked. Leaving the cultural village we drive back to Arusha. Arriving in the evening we drop you off at your hotel/ residence ending our Hadzabe Bushmen Dagota Tribes Lake Eyasi cultural day trip.