Discovering Impactful Projects on My Tanzanian Safari

Last November, during my unforgettable safari trip in Tanzania, I had the pleasure of visiting two truly inspiring projects that left a lasting impact on me. These projects not only celebrate local culture and creativity but also make a significant social contribution. Today, I’m excited to share my experiences at Shanga in Arusha and Africa Amini Life Lodges—each offering unique insights into sustainable living and community empowerment.

Shanga: A Hub of Creativity and Social Impact

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Arusha, Shanga is a social enterprise that has been a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike since 2007.

What Makes Shanga Special?

• Empowering Through Craftsmanship: Shanga employs people with disabilities to create unique, high-quality handmade jewelry, glassware, and homewares. Each piece is crafted with care, using recycled materials to give them new life.

• Cultural and Artistic Fusion: The open workshop is a living gallery, featuring areas dedicated to glass-blowing, weaving, sewing, Tinga Tinga painting, bead-making, and metal work. This creative space not only showcases the incredible talent of the artisans but also allows visitors to see these age-old skills in action.

• A Visit That Inspires: Located on the grounds of the Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge, Shanga offers free tours and activities every day from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Whether you’re interested in watching a glass-blowing demonstration or picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir, the experience is both enriching and uplifting.

• Long-Term Impact: Since joining the Elewana Group in 2017 as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility program, Shanga has gained long-term stability. Profits from their sales are reinvested into expanding opportunities for people with disabilities, ensuring that the impact of your visit extends far beyond a simple purchase.

  
  

How to Experience and Support Shanga?

• Visit Arusha Shanga, Gift and Workshop and Foundation

• Combine Your Visit: For a complete day out, consider pairing your visit to Shanga with a meal at one of the Arusha Coffee Lodge’s dining venues.

• Spread the Word: Sharing your experience on social media and with friends not only supports Shanga but also raises awareness about the importance of inclusive, sustainable projects.

Africa Amini Life Lodges: Embracing Maasai Culture and Sustainable Living

The second project that truly moved me was Africa Amini Life Lodges—a unique retreat that blends traditional Maasai culture with modern sustainability and social projects. This experience was a harmonious blend of wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and purposeful development.

What Makes Africa Amini Life Lodges Special?

• Authentic Cultural Immersion: Imagine staying in traditional Maasai huts, built with sustainable materials and crafted in the traditional Maasai way. This isn’t just accommodation—it’s an invitation to step into a living tradition where every structure tells a story.

• A Gateway to Local Life and Wildlife: Africa Amini Life Lodges offers an amazing opportunity to learn about the local Maasai culture while enjoying close encounters with Tanzania’s abundant wildlife. Whether you’re relaxing or exploring, you’re surrounded by nature and tradition.

• A Multitude of Social Projects: Africa Amini goes far beyond providing a place to stay. Their commitment to social change is evident in a variety of projects:

  • Educational Initiatives: With three primary schools, three secondary schools, and training programs, the project aims to empower the next generation with the skills needed for future success.

  • Medical Projects: Founded by Christine Wallner and her daughter, the Africa Amini Hospital opened in 2010, and in 2022 a centre for preventative care and natural healing was established. Their “driving doctors” program ensures that even remote Maasai areas have access to quality healthcare.

  • Social Support: From caring for around 40 children at the Kindervilla orphanage to supporting Maasai and Meru women's groups and a women’s choir, Africa Amini is deeply invested in building a sustainable future for the community.

  • Water and Infrastructure Projects: Innovative water projects now ensure clean drinking water even during dry seasons, drawing from Kilimanjaro’s resources.

  
  

How to Support Africa Amini Life Lodges?

• Stay with Purpose: Book your accommodation at Africa Amini Life Lodges to enjoy an immersive experience while directly supporting their social and educational projects. --> Original Maasai Lodge & Hillside Retreat

• Engage with Their Programs: Learn more about their community initiatives, whether it’s educational programs for children, healthcare projects, or other training for young people.

• Share Your Experience: By spreading the word about Africa Amini Life Lodges, you help highlight a model of sustainable, community-focused tourism that makes a real difference.

  
  

Visiting Shanga and Africa Amini Life Lodges during my Tanzanian safari was a profound reminder that travel can be both exhilarating and transformative. These projects have redefined what it means to support sustainable tourism—merging cultural immersion, community empowerment, and social responsibility.

I left Tanzania not only with incredible memories of wildlife and landscapes but also with a deep respect for initiatives that are making a tangible difference in people’s lives. I encourage you to visit these projects, support their missions, and share their stories.

Happy travels and meaningful adventures!