Private Traditional Pottery Class near Arusha

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!!

### 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.

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.

I loved this tour and the people I met along the day. It was fun, I felt welcomed all the time. This gives a very close and honest insight into village life and the wonderful tradition of pottery production. I could have stayed for days. The link between tourism and community help is very well done here - with respect for everyone's perspective and wishes.

A wonderful way to spend an afternoon and get a taste of life in Arusha. My family of five each learned how to throw a clay pot. My daughter even got to milk a cow! Reuben is an amazing guide.

Had an amazing time (even as solo traveler), extremely friendly pottery studio & wonderful guides the whole time. Thank you Andrew & Reuben

Exiting activity with children of the TST! Kitomary : the artist has shown us how to create our own artifact with a clay of big quality! Concentration and fun in the same time.