Shanga is a successful social enterprise that employs people with disabilities to create unique, high-quality, handmade jewelry, glassware, and homeware using recycled materials.

Combining an uplifting local community project with unique artistic activities and an opportunity to purchase handmade gifts, Shanga has been a favorite Arusha tourist destination since 2007.

Shanga is a project of Elewana as part of its CSR commitment to the people of Tanzania. Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge is the home of Shanga, which comprises an open workshop for glass-blowing, weaving, sewing, tingatinga, bead-making, and metalwork, as well as a shop showcasing handmade Shanga products.

Visiting Shanga

The Shanga workshop is open for tours and activities 9 am – 4.30 pm every day of the year. All Shanga tours and activities are FREE and visitors are welcome anytime, however, advanced bookings will ensure you receive the best possible care and engagement.

Shanga can be experienced as its own destination, or combined with a meal at one of the exceptional Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge dining venues.

Create Your Itinerary

Shanga tours can be tailored to your availability and preferences, so there is always time for a Shanga experience. You can build your client itineraries with any combination of activities:

30 MIN – Guided full workshop tour

20 MIN – ‘Try’ activities including glass blowing

15 MIN – Make your own necklace

45 MIN – Maasai beading workshop – make your own bracelet

30 MIN – Sign-language lesson

15 MIN – Q&A discussion on disabilities and recycling in Tanzania

20 MIN – Q&A discussion on disabilities and recycling in Tanzania

In addition to the above, Shanga can tailor bespoke activities on request, ranging from art projects, to educational sessions, and local staff engagement.