01 · The People
The earliest known inhabitants of the valley.
The Hadza, a small ethnic group of hunter-gatherers, are the earliest known inhabitants of the Yaeda Valley, though no one can say for sure when they arrived or where they came from originally. Linguistic studies show that while their language is superficially similar to the Khoisan group of the Bushmen and Hottentots, it cannot be placed in any of the recognized major ethno-linguistic groups.
The Yaeda Valley Tourism Program began in the early 1990s when the Hadzabe community invited a small, family-owned safari company to bring tourists to the valley. The relationship between the Hadza and the Peterson family goes back some forty years, and it was of concern to both parties that tourism serve the Hadza's needs and values. The invitation led to a series of powwows, resulting in a carefully monitored program.
02 · The Principles
Community values are paramount.
The Hadza have valuable knowledge that the rest of the world has lost. Hunting and gathering cultures, with their foundation of ecological prudence, have lessons to teach all people. What the Hadza would like you, as a visitor, to take home is an appreciation of their culture not as an antiquated tradition disconnected from the modern world, but as a valid part of it. This approach bolsters self-identity among a people victimized by severe prejudice and discrimination.
Tourism is judged worthwhile only if it enhances community land and resource rights. Because Hadza land is a communal resource and Hadza society is egalitarian, tourism should not permit individuals to profit at the expense of the community. Tourist proceeds go primarily to community accounts, though smaller fees, structured by the community, may be paid to local individuals who take part in a given visit.
How the Dorobo Fund supports this → Culture in the experience →
The Hadza Experience, on film
Hadza Experience with Dorobo Safaris
Hunting, honey & song in the Yaeda Valley
