Ol Doinyo Lengai, standing at 2,890 meters, is located around 240 kilometers northwest of Arusha, along the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Overlooking Lake Natron near the Kenyan border, Ol Doinyo Lengai—meaning “Mountain of God” in Maasai—is Tanzania’s only active volcano.
The mountain can be climbed in about six hours, offering stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and the volcanic landscapes of the Ngorongoro highlands from the summit. This adventurous hike begins at dawn, but keep in mind that since it’s an active volcano, climbing is restricted during eruptions.
At the base of the mountain lies Lake Natron, renowned as the sole breeding ground for the endangered Lesser Flamingo in the Great Rift Valley. In fact, this lake is considered the world’s most vital breeding site for these birds, supporting around 75% of the global population.
Lake Natron is a shallow soda lake, less than three meters deep, and its size fluctuates with water levels. Temperatures in the lake’s mud can exceed 40°C, with evaporation creating highly alkaline conditions. This extreme environment serves as a natural defense against predators trying to reach the flamingo nests.
The area surrounding Lake Natron is often described as having a stark, almost lunar-like beauty. Walking around the lake, exploring nearby streams, and visiting the waterfalls along the escarpment offer a truly unique adventure off the beaten path.