Katesh

Katesh is a town in south-western Manyara Region, located near Lake Eyasi. It is the administrative centre of the area and a base for visiting the Hadzabe and Datoga (Barabaig) peoples. Lake Eyasi is a seasonal soda lake at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment, and the surrounding area is one of the best places in Tanzania for cultural tourism.

The Hadzabe are one of Africa's last remaining hunter-gatherer groups, living a traditional lifestyle of hunting with bows and arrows and gathering wild foods. The Datoga are pastoralists and blacksmiths, known for their distinctive facial scarification and metalworking. Katesh has basic services for visitors.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Lake Manyara Airport (LKY) and Kilimanjaro International (JRO).

By Train

By Car / Road

Katesh is accessible from Babati (about 100 km south-west) and from the Karatu area. The road is unpaved and can be difficult in the wet season. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

Katesh is walkable. A 4x4 is needed for reaching Lake Eyasi and the Hadzabe/Datoga areas.

• Lake Eyasi — a seasonal soda lake at the base of the Rift Valley, with birdlife and dramatic scenery.

• Hadzabe and Datoga villages — traditional settlements where you can observe ancient ways of life.

• Hadzale hunting walk — join Hadzabe men on a morning hunting expedition with bows and arrows.

• Datoga blacksmith visit — watch the Datoga create traditional tools and jewellery.

• Lake Eyasi birdwatching — see flamingos and other waterbirds at the lake.

• Fishing with the Hadzabe — learn traditional fishing methods on Lake Eyasi.

Local food is basic: ugali, rice, beans, and grilled meat. Some camps provide more varied meals.

Bottled water is essential. Soft drinks are available.

• Budget: Basic guesthouses in Katesh.
• Mid-range: Tented camps near Lake Eyasi offer a comfortable safari experience with cultural activities.

Local crafts: Hadzabe bows and arrows, Datoga jewellery and metalwork.

• Babati (north-east, 2 hours) — Manyara regional capital.
• Lake Manyara National Park (north, 1.5 hours) — scenic park with flamingos and tree-climbing lions.
• Karatu (north-west) — gateway to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
• Mbulu (north) — Iraqw highland town.