Step into the heart of Chagga culture with this immersive village experience, where you’ll engage in traditional cooking, banana beer making, and daily farm activities. Nestled on the lush slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Chagga people have preserved their unique traditions for generations, offering you an unforgettable journey into their way of life.
Banana Beer Making – A Time-Honored Tradition
Banana beer, known locally as mbege, is a cherished part of Chagga heritage. This rich, slightly sweet, and mildly fermented beverage has been brewed for centuries, playing an essential role in social gatherings and ceremonies. You’ll witness the entire process—from selecting unripe bananas and fermenting them with millet to tasting the final product. Guided by local brewers, you’ll stir, mix, and watch the transformation of these natural ingredients into a beloved local drink. And of course, no experience is complete without a celebratory sip!
Cooking Class with Mama – A Taste of Tanzania
Nothing connects you to a culture quite like its food, and there’s no better way to learn than under the warm and experienced guidance of Mama, the heart of the Chagga kitchen. In this hands-on cooking class, you’ll prepare authentic Tanzanian dishes using time-honored techniques and fresh, local ingredients.One of the highlights is learning how to make green banana soup, a nourishing dish made from unripe bananas, slow-cooked with beef or beans to create a hearty and flavorful meal. This traditional soup is a staple in Chagga households, offering a delicious balance of earthy flavors and rich textures. You’ll also cook ugali (a staple maize porridge), savor the smoky flavors of nyama choma (grilled meat), and prepare stewed vegetables using farm-fresh produce.
Under Mama’s careful instruction, you’ll not only master the recipes but also learn the cultural significance behind each dish, making the experience both educational and deeply personal.
Feeding the Cattle – Embracing Rural Life
Cattle are an integral part of the Chagga lifestyle, providing milk, manure for farming, and a connection to their ancestors. Join local farmers as they care for their livestock, experiencing firsthand the daily rhythms of village life. You’ll help feed the cattle, learn about traditional animal husbandry techniques, and hear stories about how livestock plays a role in Chagga customs and economy.
Avocado Coffee Making – A Unique Brew
Discover a one-of-a-kind coffee experience as you learn how to make avocado coffee, a local specialty with a creamy texture and rich aroma. The Chagga people are renowned for their coffee-growing traditions, and you’ll get to grind, roast, and brew fresh coffee beans while incorporating the smoothness of avocado—a combination that will surprise and delight your taste buds.
A Cultural Experience Like No Other
Beyond the activities, this experience is about human connection. Share laughter, stories, and traditions with your Chagga hosts as they welcome you into their world. Whether you’re stirring a pot under Mama’s watchful eye, brewing banana beer, or tending to cattle, you’ll feel a deep sense of belonging and appreciation for the simple yet profound way of life in this beautiful region.
Join us on this enriching journey and take home not just memories, but a newfound appreciation for Tanzania’s cultural heritage.
