Lake Manyara National Park - North Gate📍 landmark
Serving as the primary northern entry point near Mto wa Mbu, this gate leads directly into the park's lush groundwater forest.
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Mto wa Mbu
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City
Mto wa Mbu means 'River of Mosquitoes' in Swahili and is one of the few villages in Tanzania where representatives of almost all 120 tribes live together peacefully. This cultural diversity is reflected in the local customs, handicrafts, and especially in the agriculture. Thanks to a sophisticated irrigation system, the village is a green oasis where rice and over 30 varieties of bananas, including the famous red bananas, flourish. Visitors can take part in guided cultural tours that include visits to farms, local breweries, and the workshops of Makonde woodcarvers. Its location right at the entrance to Lake Manyara National Park makes it a well-suited base for safaris. The local market is a spirited spectacle of colors and scents, offering a great opportunity to experience authentic East African life. The best time to visit is during the dry season (June to October), although the area stays green year-round due to irrigation. For food lovers, trying the local lunch buffet is a must, offering a vast array of traditional dishes. Access is easy, as the village lies on the main road connecting Arusha with the Serengeti National Park.
- Location: Tanzania
- Top sights: Lake Manyara National Park - North Gate · Manyara Treetop Walkway
- Nearby: Lake Manyara National Park (12 km)
- Population: ~17.754 (2016)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 68 | 106 | 122 | 59 | 8 | 3 | 7 | 10 | 42 | 108 | 102 |
Geography
Facts
- Home to members of almost all 120 tribes.
- Famous for sweet red bananas.
- Uses an irrigation system dating back to colonial times.
- Center for Makonde ebony wood carvings.
- Located at the foot of the Rift Valley escarpment.
- Gateway to Lake Manyara National Park.
- Offers popular mountain bike tours.
- Bustling and colorful African market.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Mto wa Mbu (2)
Frequently asked questions
Mto wa Mbu: where is it located?
Mto wa Mbu is located in Tanzania.
Mto wa Mbu: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lake Manyara National Park - North Gate, Manyara Treetop Walkway.
Mto wa Mbu: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mto wa Mbu: why is it worth visiting?
Mto wa Mbu means 'River of Mosquitoes' in Swahili and is one of the few villages in Tanzania where representatives of almost all 120 tribes live together peacefully.
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