3 Days, 2 Nights Safari to Lake Natron with Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb
Highlights
- Day 1: Arusha to Lake Natron
- Day 2: Climb Ol Doinyo Lengai
- Day 3: Lake Natron to Arusha
Day to Day
Day 1: Arusha to Lake Natron
6:00 AM – Departure from Arusha
- What to Expect: Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Arusha. The drive to Lake Natron takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. As you travel, you’ll witness the transformation from lush highlands to the arid, stark beauty of the Natron region.
10:00 AM – Stop at Engaruka Ruins
- What to Expect: Along the way, you’ll stop at the Engaruka Ruins, an ancient Maasai settlement known for its sophisticated irrigation systems. Your guide will provide insights into the history and culture of the people who once thrived in this region.
12:00 PM – Arrival at Lake Natron
- What to Expect: Upon arrival at Lake Natron, you’ll check into your camp or lodge. Lake Natron is a shallow, saltwater lake famous for its deep red color and as the breeding ground for millions of flamingos. The landscape here is otherworldly, with towering volcanic mountains, expansive salt flats, and the imposing presence of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the “Mountain of God.”
1:00 PM – Lunch at the Camp or Lodge
- What to Expect: Enjoy a relaxing lunch at your camp or lodge, taking in the stunning surroundings. The camps in this area are typically eco-friendly, offering a comfortable base while blending into the natural environment.
2:30 PM – Guided Walk to the Lake
- What to Expect: In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a guided walk to the shores of Lake Natron. As you approach the lake, you’ll see the vibrant pink hue of thousands of flamingos, one of the lake’s most iconic sights. Your guide will explain the unique ecosystem of the lake and how it supports such abundant birdlife.
5:00 PM – Visit to the Waterfalls
- What to Expect: After exploring the lake, you’ll hike to nearby waterfalls, a refreshing oasis in this dry landscape. The hike takes you through a gorge with beautiful rock formations, and you’ll have the chance to swim in the cool, clear pools at the base of the falls.
7:00 PM – Dinner at the Camp
- What to Expect: Return to your camp for dinner, where you can enjoy a meal under the stars. The evening is yours to relax, perhaps by the campfire, as you prepare for the challenging climb ahead.
9:00 PM – Early Rest in Preparation for the Climb
- What to Expect: Get an early night’s sleep, as the climb to Ol Doinyo Lengai starts very early in the morning. Ensure you have all the necessary gear ready, including sturdy shoes, a headlamp, warm clothing, and plenty of water.
Day 2: Climb Ol Doinyo Lengai
12:00 AM (Midnight) – Start the Climb
- What to Expect: The climb to Ol Doinyo Lengai begins around midnight. The ascent is challenging, taking 5-7 hours to reach the summit. The trail is steep and rugged, but your guide will lead the way, providing support and encouragement. As you climb, the night sky above you will be filled with stars, creating a surreal experience.
5:30 AM – Reach the Summit at Sunrise
- What to Expect: Arriving at the summit in time for sunrise is the highlight of the climb. Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano and the only one in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, which is much cooler than typical lava and has a unique, almost white appearance when it flows. From the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Great Rift Valley and Lake Natron below. The experience of watching the sunrise from this sacred mountain is unforgettable.
6:30 AM – Begin the Descent
- What to Expect: After taking in the views and resting, you’ll begin the descent. The way down can be even more challenging than the ascent due to the loose volcanic ash, so take your time and follow your guide’s instructions.
10:00 AM – Return to Camp
- What to Expect: Once back at camp, you’ll have time to rest and recover. A hearty breakfast will be waiting for you, and you can spend the rest of the morning relaxing.
1:00 PM – Lunch and Leisure Time
- What to Expect: After lunch, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore more of the area. You can take a dip in the nearby natural pools, explore the local Maasai villages, or simply rest after the climb.
6:00 PM – Sundowner at the Lake
- What to Expect: In the early evening, head back to the lake for a sundowner. Watch the sunset over the lake, casting a golden glow over the landscape and turning the water a deeper shade of red. The sight of flamingos flying against the backdrop of the setting sun is a magical way to end the day.
7:30 PM – Dinner at the Camp
- What to Expect: Return to the camp for dinner. After the day’s exertions, you’ll appreciate a good meal and a quiet evening. Share stories of your climb with fellow travelers around the campfire before turning in for the night.
Day 3: Lake Natron to Arusha
7:00 AM – Breakfast at the Camp
- What to Expect: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you take in the final views of Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai. The morning is yours to explore or simply relax before beginning the journey back to Arusha.
8:30 AM – Visit to Local Maasai Village
- What to Expect: Before leaving, you’ll visit a local Maasai village to learn about the traditional way of life in this harsh environment. The Maasai are known for their distinctive customs and dress, and your visit provides a unique cultural insight.
10:00 AM – Departure for Arusha
- What to Expect: Begin the drive back to Arusha. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, retracing your route through the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages and stunning scenery.
1:00 PM – Picnic Lunch En Route
- What to Expect: Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way, perhaps stopping at a scenic spot to stretch your legs and take in the views.
3:30 PM – Arrive in Arusha
- What to Expect: You’ll arrive back in Arusha in the afternoon. Depending on your plans, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or transferred to the airport for your onward journey.
Includes
- Park fees(For non-residents)
- All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excludes
- International flights(From/to home)
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
There's So Much to Discover
