Masai village, called “Olpopongi” is located about 75 kilometers from Moshi, in the west side of Mount Kilimanjaro. You can visit Masai village on day trip or overnight trip. There is good quality accommodation; in the guesthouses there is a bunk with a bed sheets and pillows. Olpopongi provides an unique Masai cultural experience.
The Olpopongi Masai village is built for tourists so that they won’t spoil the Masai’s native homes, behaviors and environment. All the houses in Olpopongi are built the traditional way with local and natural materials only – similar to those ones in original Masai villages. Only some additions, such as exterior washrooms and the kitchen, are different from the Masai culture. They are built for tourist’s comfort and full satisfaction. All the workers are Masai people from nearby village called Tinga-Tinga.
When arriving to Masai village the Masai women will welcome you with a dance performance. After that it is time to visit a Masai museum inside the village. Good English speaking guides explain about Masai culture and their way of life. In the village you can also see Masai warriors and hear about their hunting habits. If you want you can also go stroll outside the village. During the walking you can see real savannah and animals such as giraffes, antelopes, elephants and zebras. The guide will tell you about different savannah plants, and how the Masai people use plants in their daily lives.
If you do the overnight trip, you can see how Masai men are slaughtering the goat and prepare it the traditional way. In the evening, if weather allows, you will have an opportunity to see the spectacular sunset above the savannah. After that you can sit around the campfire and admire the bright starry sky.
Visit in Olpopongi does also support local Masai families. With increased incomes they can get water, food, medical treatments and education. All Masai-Jewellery on sale is handmade and produced by the local Masai women of other nearby villages.
