Things To Do in Karatu

Karatu serves as a gateway to the Ngorongoro Highlands and is located between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater. Due to its location, many safari goers end up overnighting or stopping here for a quick break, earning it the nickname “Safari Junction”.

The busy downtown of Karatu is a mix of old and new with safari vehicles, local buses, and brightly colored tuk-tuks riding alongside Maasai herders and ox-carts, while just outside town cultivated Iraqw farms and villages merge into the green vegetation of the Ngorongoro Forest. If you do an Internet search for top things to do in Karatu Tanzania, you may end up with the erroneous impression that there is nothing to do in this town.

 Here are top things to do in Karatu:

1. Visit Ngorongoro Crater

• One of Africa’s best wildlife destinations.

• Home to lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, and more.

• Ideal for a full-day game drive.

2. Explore Lake Manyara National Park

• Known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos.

• Offers excellent birdwatching and scenic drives.

3. Tour Local Coffee Plantations

• Karatu is famous for its Arabica coffee.

• Learn about coffee growing, harvesting, and roasting.

• Enjoy tasting freshly brewed local coffee.

4. Visit Mto wa Mbu Village

• Cultural experience with 120+ tribes living together.

• Visit banana plantations, local markets, and traditional homes.

• Try local food and banana beer.

5. Walk through the Karatu Market

• Open-air market with local produce, crafts, and fabrics.

• Best day: every Tuesday.

• Great place to meet locals and buy souvenirs.

6. Go on a Cultural Boma Tour

• Visit Iraqw or Hadzabe communities.

• Learn traditional farming, hunting, and pottery methods.

7. Visit Gibbs Farm

• A working coffee farm and lodge with beautiful gardens.

• Offers farm-to-table meals, coffee tours, and short hikes.

8. Hike in the Ngorongoro Highlands

• Scenic trails through forests and farmland.

• Visit waterfalls and enjoy panoramic views of the rift valley.

9. Explore Elephant Caves in Ngorongoro Forest

• Natural salt licks where elephants and buffalo gather.

• Guided hike needed for safety and access.

10. Relax at Local Lodges

• Many lodges offer nature walks, birding, and spa treatments.

• Ideal for resting between safaris.