Today we were able to enjoy a relaxing day as a reward after long, hot days working at clinics. After breakfast, we said goodbye to Simon and met our new drivers. They took us to the Ndoro Waterfall, a “hidden” waterfall at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro that is owned by the community. The 54 meters of winding steep steps we climbed down were definitely worth it.

Following the hike down, we were ready to dive in, literally. We were able to swim around the base of the waterfall and relax on the large volcanic boulders. It was amazing to finally get a chance to completely relax, reflect, and de-stress after the clinics. For once, there was no where we had to be and nothing we had to do.

After the climb back up the steps, we headed to the Chagga Caves. The caves were originally built in the 17^th century to protect the Chagga people, who live in the mountains, from the Maasai people who would attack when the lowlands became toko dry to sustain them. During these dry spells, the Maasai would try to take food, water, cattle, and even people to use for slaves. When the Maasai started kidnapping women, the Chagga people started digging the caves to use as hideouts. The caves are very complex and protected them from the attacks, which included a poison created from peppers, attempted floodings, and warriors sneaking in. The Chagga people were able to sustain themselves, and their cows, in the caves from anywhere from a few hours to months and even years. The tunnels, at least five meters underground, were designed with narrow areas to attack enemies, coded entryways, kitchens with special vents that drew smoke out of the living areas into hidden locations, a path to a river where things could be disposed, and ventilation so fresh air would circulate.

After a delicious and filling lunch provided by Honey Badger, we climbed down a very rickety stair/ladder combo into the caves. Underground, it was cool and damp, and a bit breezy. Our tour guide was very energetic and explained the fascinating history very thoroughly. He also loved answering questions. In the cave we saw the clubs the guards would use to kill or paralyze any Maasai that entered, we also saw the guards posts, the civilian rooms, and the ventilation holes. As we followed the cave, it got narrower and lower, until we reached the end.

Outside of the cave, we toured a traditional Chagga house, built from sticks and straw. Half of their houses were devoted to places for their cattle and other animals. On the part where the people lived, there were beds, one where the father slept, and a large bed where the mother and all of the children slept. There also was a space for cooking and animal feed. The Chagga people were very resourceful and found clever ways to use everything.

All in all, it was a great day, and one where we were able to relax and sit down and reflect on our trip and take in the beauty of Tanzania and Africa. Tomorrow we are heading to Ngorongoro crater for a safari.

From Tanzania,

Sue and Aly