Datoga Tribe
The Datoga tribe are well-regarded for their incredible blacksmith abilities. Using recycled metals, the tribe’s blacksmiths make beautiful jewellery as well as arrowheads for the nearby Hadzabe tribe.
Living beside the Hadzabe tribe, its easy to make a combined visit to both tribes, which I’d highly recommend!
A visit to the Datoga tribe typically involves meeting the tribe, watching (and getting involved!) as they grind down some flour the traditional way, and witnessing the smelting of metal and carving of jewellery.
Quick Facts
Location: The Datoga live in the Lake Eyasi basin which is roughly 3 hours from Arusha. Lake Eyasi is conveniently located between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater, making it an ideal part of a larger Tanzania itinerary.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, excluding the long rainy season between mid-March and mid-May.
Top Tip: The Datoga are expert jewellery-makers so bring some USD cash to purchase a bangle or two from them. They’re extremely high quality and really beautiful.
My Experience With The Datoga
Disclaimer: Tours and activities are offered by local tour operators, not Safaris By Ella.