The Hadzabe Tribe in Tanzania – Should you visit?
Do you feel like cultural visits in general are tourist traps? Do you usually avoid “cultural interactions” because of the dirty taste they leave in your mouth? Do you thoroughly dislike kids being used as tourist attractions? Then I would recommend stepping out of your comfort zone and planning a visit to the Hadzabe tribe in North Tanzania.
The Hadzabe are a tribe who has made the arid area of Lake Eyasi in North Tanzania their home. And although their way of life has been under threat, largely due to loss of land – the Hadza of Tanzania are still living very much as humankind did in the stone age. The Hadzabe have an incredible knowledge of the lands and the flora and fauna on them.
Although of course the tourist visits certainly leave a mark on the Hadza culture – and no system is perfect; in general there seems to be a balance. On the negative extreme, the money received from tourism has led to alcoholism in some tribe members and on the positive side, the increased interest of the international community led to the platform for the Hadzabe to maintain land control. In 2007 the local government leased 6,500 square kilometers of land to an Arabian Royal Family – to be used as private hunting grounds – leading to the Hadzabe being denied access to these lands. After protests from the Hadzabe and coverage of the international press, the deal was rescinded.
Hunting with the Hadzabe
If you have decided you don’t want to miss out on a visit, what can you expect? Tourists are welcomed and treated in a friendly manner without reducing the Hadzabe to performers and the tourist to gullible atm’s to be taken advantage of.
The men proudly show off their hunting skills -while undoubtedly having a good-heartedly chuckle about how loud their visitors walk. In the time the women are not out gathering for food – they sit together and produce little items to trade with tourists.
What I did not realize before my visit was that “hunting”: means a two hour high passed walk through the surroundings. Being a tad bit on the squeamish side: hunting would be the last activity I think I would enjoy. But because your hunt is basically a nature walk: also
What does a typical visit with the Hadzabe look like?
Because of the activity patterns of the tribe and the searing heat in the afternoons – you will have an early start! In general, you will depart between 05:00 and 05:30 from your lodge/campsite. You will drive to the camp/family you will be visiting.
The drive will take anything between 45 minutes to 1,5 hours. Depending on the location of the camp you are visiting and the condition of the road. Upon arrival you can join the Hadza men at the fire – the Hadza don’t speak any English but your guide will help smooth things over. Once the men have warmed up and had a smoke, the hunt will start!
This part is not really suitable for people that have trouble walking. You do not need to be super fit – but because of the uneven grounds, it can be a bit tricky for people having mobility issues.
You will follow the Hadzabe men while the pas through the stunning landscape. In the meantime your guide will explain and point out some of the plants/trees and their various usages. Far more than “chasing some animals with a bow and arrow”: your hike will give you a glimpse of how the lands must look to the Hadzabe. Filled with not only food but also fun & entertaiment.
Once you have returned from your hike (usually the hikes are about 4 to 6 km). You get to interact a bit with the women – learning about their tasks. Some of the camps will offer some handmade items for sale. Your guide will coordinate this.
How do I get myself there?
If you are on a packaged tour – simply ask your travel agency/tour operator to include a visit on your safari. To visit the tribe you will need to organize a guide. Some camps/families of the Hadzabe have chosen to engage in interaction with tourists – some prefer not too. Your guide will ensure your visit is a welcome one. You can either organize a visit to the Community Centra in the area upon arrival. Or just contact my personal recommendation contact Hassan directly:
Hassan Sanka – Guide
+255 782175 099 (also whats app)
hassan_sanka@yahoo.com
Hassan spent his youth herding the cattle of his family in the area lived in by the hadzabe. His curiosity led to frequent contact with the Hadza en Hassan picking up the language. Not only knowledgeable – he is a truly pleasant guy to spend some time with.
The going rate at the moment for writing this is $90 per car. So not per person but per car.
Although not a mandatory tip for your guide is always appreciated and part of the tourism culture in Tanzania.
Due to the early nature of the visits – the only realistic way is to overnight at least 1 night around the Lake Eyasi area.
Read this blog post for accomodation options around the Lake Eyasi area
If you want to read more about Hadza culture & religion, have a look at this fantastic book: By the Light of a Million Fires
