Living like a local in Tanzania; why YOU should book a home stay on your next trip!

Stepping off the shuttle bus from Nairobi, into the baking midday sun of Arusha (Tanzania's main tourist hub), two slightly disoriented Europeans, we were immediately met by the smiling face of our always-friendly local host, Martha, greeting us with a hug and a big ‘Karibu!’, or ‘Welcome!’ in Swahili. 

When we first booked this trip, many months ago, we knew very little about Tanzania, but we had heard a lot about their amazing safari experiences (which, coincidentally, have recently just won Tanzania the title of ‘The World’s Leading Safari Destination’ at the World Travel Awards of 2025). We did know, however, that we really wanted to learn about the country through the eyes of a local. 

Thankfully, we stumbled across Kilitanzania Pride Tours, operated by the wonderful Martha, and a plan was set in motion. 

As well as showcasing some of the best safari and trekking experiences in the country, Kilitanzania Pride Tours also offers their clients the opportunity to engage with the community around Arusha by staying with a local host. 

This is exactly what we chose to do, and you should too! 

Inching our way through the bustling streets of Arusha, we watched as daily markets spread themselves out across the pavements, restaurants with great, smouldering grills outside began to fill, and Martha - alongside her business partner, and local guide, Baba Luu - pointed out some of the main sights. 

Quite quickly, however, we shook the busy city off and headed for the peaceful suburb of Shangarai, the place we would call home for the following week. Driving down the winding road towards our final destination, we passed schoolchildren who were excited to see us (most of them waving and yelling ‘Mambo!’ as we went), mothers tending to small stalls selling fruit, and busy homes alive and full of music. Everywhere we looked was beautiful, from the awe-inspiring Mount Meru - the second highest in the country - to the lush banana plantations that surrounded this neighbourhood. 

Upon reaching our home stay, we were met with an incredibly warm welcome from the rest of Martha’s family, and were made to feel immediately at home. Our room was cosy and comfortable, and right next door to the main family home where we enjoyed delicious, fresh meals every morning and evening. We loved sampling local bananas with our Swahili tea for breakfast each day, alongside the typical East African treat of mandazi (which we are craving even now!). Martha’s dinners were always prepared with love using only locally-sourced ingredients, usually collected that very same day from the market nearby. 

We got to know the real soul of Tanzania. We learned about traditional ways of living in the country, hearing stories from Martha’s own life and the lives of her family and friends. We felt part of the community there, meeting local business owners, neighbours and playing with the children each evening on our walk back home after a busy day of exploring the area. 

Martha was also extremely flexible in arranging our tours for us, and anytime we had a question we only had to walk to her front door, and she was always willing to talk the details through with us. We were able to complete a wonderful safari to Tarangire National Park - where we spotted lions, cheetahs and too many elephants to count - and also the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, home to the ancient Maasai tribe and the only place during our entire trip to Africa where we successfully spotted a majestic Black Rhino. 

Every detail of our trip was carefully thought out, the itinerary paced perfectly to match our energy levels, the guides full of knowledge and passion, and the lodge accommodation incredibly comfortable after a long day in a safari jeep spotting wildlife. 

If you’re thinking of taking a trip to Tanzania, and this has piqued your curiosity, we would highly recommend choosing to stay with a local when you book through Kilitanzania Pride Tours. You will become an instant part of the family, and see first-hand the fabric of community that holds this wonderful country together. You will be surrounded by idyllic scenery from the minute you wake up each day, and will experience an authentic slice of Tanzanian life that will leave you wanting more and getting ready to book your next trip here before you even leave!

With gratitude,

Jacob and Freya (all the way from Ireland!)