We have done two hikes with Shambaa Eco Tours and we were very happy with the experience. Our guide Charles gave us a lot of information regarding nature, culture and environment. We could directly experience the every day life of people living in the villages around the area, learn about local traditions and healing plants and observe the very intersting Usambara two-horned chameleon. The viewing points on the hikes are also worth visiting and the farmers lunch provided by one of the local farms was very tasty. Later we also visited the historical buildings and market.

Would totally recommend anyone who is interested in the local culture, history, vegetation and geography to go an a hike with Charles! he always made us feel super welcomed and well-cared for with his professional but easy-going attitude.We booked two one-day hikes (Lushoto Town & Irente Viewpoint Combo and the Magamba Rainforest & Kisasa Waterfall combo) and were not only blown away by the stunning scenery but also Charles’ knowledge on medicinal uses of the plants we passed, various local cultures and customs, the (colonial) history of the area and on and on...The price also included drinking water (best to bring your own bottle, but you can also have a re-usable one of theirs), lunch (all fresh from the local market and let me tell you: you won’t go hungry) and all entrance fees (where applicable) and seemed more than fair to us.Also: if you stay at the Lawns Hotel you get a discount on your Shambaa Eco Tour.