3 Days to Lake Natron and Mount Oldoinyo Lengai
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Duration
Tour Type
Overview
This 3-day safari takes you deep into the Great Rift Valley, where you’ll explore the surreal landscapes of Lake Natron, a unique alkaline lake home to thousands of lesser flamingos. The lake’s striking red waters, shaped by mineral-rich deposits, create a breathtaking contrast against the rugged volcanic terrain. Along the way, you’ll experience Maasai culture firsthand, visiting a traditional village to learn about their way of life, ancient traditions, and deep spiritual connection to the land.
The highlight of this adventure is the midnight trek to Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred “Mountain of God”, and the world’s only active carbonatite volcano. Hiking under the stars, you’ll reach the summit at sunrise, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Lake Natron, the Rift Valley, and distant peaks like Mount Kilimanjaro. The steep, challenging climb and the sight of molten lava vents make this a truly extraordinary experience, perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Tanzania.
Included/Exclude
- Round-trip transportation from Arusha in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- Services of a professional safari guide and local Maasai guide for Lake Natron tours
- 2 nights’ accommodation (camping or lodge)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees (Lake Natron, Oldoinyo Lengai)
- Lake Natron activities: walking tours, birdwatching, waterfalls
- Maasai cultural visit
- Oldoinyo Lengai night hike (optional)
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips for guides, Maasai guides, and staff
- Drinks and personal items
- Optional hot springs visit
- Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Tour Plan
- Morning: Depart from Arusha at 7:30 AM, embarking on a 5-hour scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley, with breathtaking views and wildlife spotting.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your accommodation near Lake Natron for lunch.
- Evening Activity: Join a local Maasai guide for a walking tour along the lake’s edge. Learn about the lake’s significance to the Maasai and enjoy birdwatching, including the famous pink flamingos.
- Dinner and Overnight: Camp/Lodge near Lake Natron.
- Morning: Visit the stunning Engare Sero Waterfalls. Enjoy a guided trek through scenic gorges and take a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
- Afternoon: Participate in a cultural visit to a Maasai village, where you’ll learn about Maasai traditions, daily life, and enjoy a traditional lunch with the community.
- Evening: After dinner, for those who wish, embark on a challenging night hike to the summit of Mount Oldoinyo Lengai, guided by a professional mountain guide.
- Overnight: Camp/Lodge at Lake Natron or night hiking.
- Midnight (for climbers): Begin your ascent of Mount Oldoinyo Lengai (2,962 meters), arriving at the summit just in time for a stunning sunrise over the Rift Valley and Lake Natron.
- Morning (non-climbers): Enjoy a relaxed morning with an optional additional walk along Lake Natron or visit hot springs.
- Afternoon: Return drive to Arusha, with arrival in the late afternoon.