We’ll collect you early in the morning for the drive to Olpopongi Village, located west of Kilimanjaro. Relax during the two-hour drive through the beautiful outback, where, depending on the season, you’ll see an array of wildlife, such as zebras and elephants. On clear days, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of not just Kilimanjaro but its “brother” mountain, Mount Meru. Olpopongi is a purpose-built cultural heritage center dedicated to protecting the natural lifestyle and culture of the Maasai.

Not only does the work and hospitality there support the Maasai living in the nearby village of Tinga-Tinga, but it also serves as a sustainable and educational alternative to typical tourist cultural trips that intrude on the privacy of the Maasai and often lead to the degradation of their culture. Olpopongi is run by the Maasai people as an authentic village experience; the only non-authentic details are the Western-style showers and toilets! You’ll reach Olpopongi just before lunchtime, when the friendly Maasai will greet you with a traditional welcome song and dance, along with some refreshing mango juice. Your guide will show you around the village, and you’ll check into your hut, where you’ll later spend the night.

After settling in, you’ll visit the small museum, where your guide will tell you all about the history, social organization, and tools of the Maasai people. There will be plenty of time for questions and conversation. To keep your energy up, you’ll enjoy a traditional Maasai lunch (don’t worry, vegetarian options are catered for!). After some time to relax, you’ll visit a midwife and herbalist in one of the decorated huts, where you’ll learn about traditional plant remedies and the Maasai’s strong spiritual attachment to the land. After a break for coffee (or tea—we haven’t forgotten tea lovers in this country of coffee!) and perhaps a little time to explore the jewelry shop for beautifully crafted beadwork, you’ll take a herbal walk into the bush to discover more about the plants and their uses. Day 1 concludes nicely with a fire-making session and a barbecue under the stars, before you drift off to sleep in your Maasai hut.