Traditional Manyatta Experience

Some places in Africa have defied all odds and preserved their ancient infrastructure. If you are looking for something to this effect, one of the places we shall take you to for a day’s visit is the Karamoja region in Uganda Safaris..

Here you will learn how to thatch houses with hands-on. It is one of the zones neighboring Kidepo valley National Park from the East.

For almost every one-kilometer turn, there is manyatta that makes you feel like you are in an Africa of a bygone era. Circled by a double wall of thorns that are head high and about a meter thick, these traditional huts are also known as ‘ere’.

They are home to the Karamojong, a welcoming warrior nomadic tribe located in the northeastern region of Uganda. Close to Kenya and southern Sudan, a place that is not frequently travelled.

A manyatta is a Karamajong village that is incredibly beautiful. They house one family and its extended members, enough to resemble a village.

Within it, there are thick mud homes that stay cool in the year-round heat. Not a scrap of metal or concrete is used in its construction, which is an anomaly in a world that has gone for wall-to-wall concrete. At the heart of the manyatta is a large kraal where the cattle are kept.

They are rebuilt every 5-10 years. In this arid land, warriors and men move more often with their herds. However, sometimes families may move because of an outbreak of drought or other disasters that could strike anytime.

How Visiting A Manyatta Unfolds on Your Uganda Safaris

During your Uganda Safari Tour, our guide will ensure you get the most out of this experience. Where the need is, they will adjust the itinerary to accommodate your interests.

A trip to a Manyatta can be extremely educative and enlightening. These settlements have such a rich culture that has been retained over the years and untouched by modernization. The existence of something so pure is reassuring.

Experiencing a Manyatta is a life-changing experience as you get a view of the village’s layout and homesteads to the people and language. The community lifestyle creates a sense of solidarity and camaraderie.

As you enter the village, sparsely dressed children will welcome you with open arms, and you will see old men lounging on headrest stools covered in tunics, telling stories from their ancestors about the customs and ways of their people to both the young and the old or just watching the activities in the village.

The locals are very determined that you learn about the Karamojong culture and people. You will love the region and the kind, generous, easy going and patient nomadic warriors you will meet.

You will be able to relax and enjoy the country because the driving is done cautiously by the guide. Any difficulties you encounter will be taken care of graciously.

There you have it, bon voyage as you prepare to visit the manyattas.

Conclusion

Uganda Safari Packages are available from Gazelle Safaris Africa in a variety of price ranges. What are you waiting for? Book a trip with us as we set off on one of the most rewarding Uganda Safari Holidays.