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Take a Private Traditional Pottery Class Near Arusha
Experience an authentic view of Tanzania when you visit a group of local potters near Arusha in the Arusha Region, where you’ll watch artisans shape beautiful, functional pieces from locally mined clay and learn hands-on techniques-preparing, turning, trimming, and firing your own pottery using traditional local tools. You’ll finish the day with a completed pot to take home as a personal memento and a deeper appreciation for the craft, while also learning about the work of The Small Things, which supports families and cares for children in crisis. This immersive, culturally rich workshop is ideal for travelers seeking art and culture, family-friendly activities, and meaningful local experiences tied to the region. Book through Varoom to pair this memorable pottery workshop with accommodation and make it a seamless part of your Arusha region itinerary.
About this activity in Arusha
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Join local potters near Arusha for an authentic hands-on pottery experience where you'll prepare, turn, trim and fire pieces using traditional, locally made clay and tools.
- Learn practical pottery skills from community artisans and create functional ceramics you can keep as a personal souvenir of your day here.
- Gain insight into The Small Things’ work supporting families and caring for children in crisis while you visit their workshop and meet local makers.
- Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly activity that connects you with the region’s craft traditions and community-led social projects.
Important Information
- All pottery tools, equipment, materials and bottled water are provided, so you can focus on learning and creating without bringing supplies.
- Lunch can be arranged on-site for an additional $10 USD; please select this option when booking if you’d like to stay through the midday break.
- This experience is suitable for families and travelers using prams or strollers; service animals are welcome and public transport options are nearby.
- Not recommended for guests with spinal injuries; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during the workshop - please arrive prepared for a hands-on session.
Meeting Point
Meet at The Small Things pottery workshop in Arusha (exact address and directions are provided after booking); arrive 10 minutes early to check in; if you prefer, make your own way using local transport-public options run close to the site; for group pickups, coordinate timing and meeting location with the organizer ahead of your visit.
Includes
- You’ll receive complimentary bottled water throughout your activity to stay refreshed in Arusha and the surrounding area.
- All tools, equipment and materials are provided, so you can focus on the experience without bringing extra gear.
Excludes
- Lunch is not included - you can add a meal for an extra $10 USD at the small things' site if you wish.
- Pickup from local hotels or Arusha is not included in the price.
Other
- Infants and small children are welcome to ride in a pram or stroller, making this activity family-friendly for visitors here.
- Service animals are allowed, so you can bring trained support animals as needed.
- Public transportation options are available nearby if you prefer to travel to the meeting point by bus or taxi in the region.
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the activity for safety.
- This activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries - please consider your comfort and medical needs.
- The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels, so most travelers can participate.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 7 Reviews
Summary:
Thank you Reuben and Rachel for a day we will never forget!! From learning about your meaningful work at The Small Things to producing our very first cup of coffee and later trying our hands at pottery! We so appreciate the extra time you took to show us around the local villages and answer every question we had about life in Tanzania. Highly recommend!!
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Summary:
### Review: Pottery Experience
Our pottery experience was very enjoyable, but there were a few aspects that left us feeling somewhat "misled."
#### Positive Points:
1. **Pottery itself**: The pottery-making activity was great fun. We worked with a local family/man who taught us how to make pots. It was an authentic experience, even though it was conducted outdoors with basic materials. The man leading the session was enthusiastic and very knowledgeable.
2. **Friendly staff**: Everyone we interacted with was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which added to the overall positive experience.
3. **Tour of the orphanage/NGO**: We received a tour of the orphanage, which was very informative. It was wonderful to see the impactful work they are doing for the children.
#### Areas for Improvement:
1. **Miscommunication about the location**: The address provided in the email was for the orphanage, not the pottery class location. This led to a delay and some confusion as we had to wait for our instructor to arrive. Additionally, the pottery class location was a half-hour drive from the orphanage, which incurred unexpected (taxi) costs and was not mentioned on TripAdvisor.
2. **Focus on donations**: During the tour, we were shown numerous photos of children needing sponsorships, with multiple requests for donations. While we understand the importance of funding for such a noble cause, it felt somewhat pushy. We believe that the emphasis on donations should be less direct and more at the discretion of the guests.
#### Conclusion:
Overall, it was a successful day. The pottery class was enjoyable, and the organization is doing beautiful work. However, adjusting the approach to donations and improving communication about the logistics could make the experience even better.
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Summary:
Outstanding!! The guy who does the pottery class is a true artist who knows everything about clay and does a great job teaching and sharing. The ambiance is wonderful. The funds benefit a children’s home nearby which is run by wonderful kind people.
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Know more about Arusha
You’ll get hands-on instruction from local potters on preparing, turning, trimming and firing clay using traditional, locally made tools. The workshop combines practical pottery skills with cultural context so you leave with a usable piece and a deeper appreciation for local craft.
All tools, equipment and materials are provided, and bottled water is available so you can focus on learning and creating without needing to bring supplies.
The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels, but it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries. Service animals are allowed, and public transportation options are available nearby for convenient access.
Yes - the activity is family-friendly and appropriate for kids when they’re supervised. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller and are required to sit on an adult’s lap, while the setting supports group participation and learning for all ages.
Yes - at the end of the day you’ll take your completed pot away as a memento of your experience, giving you a tangible reminder of the local craft and the people who taught you.
Basic inclusions cover tools and bottled water; lunch is not included by default but can be provided onsite for an extra $10 USD. Pickup from local hotels or Arusha is not included.
