Lake Natron

Shimmering alkaline lake

Lake Natron, which has a length of 58 kilometers and only a depth of 50 cm, shines on the sunlit Kenyan border northeast of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This natural splendor must be a stop on every adventurer’s itinerary. The drive from Arusha, Mto wa Mbu or the northern Serengeti takes you through remote areas characterized by otherworldly beauty and an unparalleled sense of space and age. You will traverse traditional Maasai country, where you will encounter small boma’s and giant mountains.

At the lake itself, about two million flamingos gather from June to November, resulting in one of East Africa’s most impressive wildlife spectacles. On the southern shore of the lake, you can also enjoy stunning views of the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai.

Ol Doinyo Lengai

“Ol Doinyo Lengai” means “The Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. The summit of this volcano is 2962 meters above sea level and offers a direct view of the caldera of Tanzania’s only officially recognized active volcano. This volcano has erupted twice in this century and is known for its unique low-temperature carbonation lava. A night moonlit climb to the summit of the famous Ol Doinyo Lengai is an unforgettable and mystical experience. But also one of the most challenging 1-day climbs in East Africa!

This hike is not for fearful or inexperienced hikers. It is worth it for the unparalleled views from the summit at sunrise. On a clear day, you can see the peaks of Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro pierce the horizon to the east.

Practical information

Location: Lake Natron is a salt lake located in northern Tanzania, in the Great Rift Valley. It is located about 120 kilometers northwest of the city of Arusha.

Admission Fee: Admission to Lake Natron may vary depending on your age and period of visit. This entrance fee (park fee) is always included in our tours.

Best time to visit: Lake Natron is good to visit all year round.From June to October, temperatures are pleasant and the chances of rain are minimal. This is also the best time for spotting the flamingos.

Climate: Lake Natron is located in a very dry and hot area.

Round trips

Check out our inspiration trips to Tanzania and/or Zanzibar that can be customized.

7 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

7 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

Join us on this enchanting safari adventure through the landscapes of Northern Tanzania, wh...

8 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

8 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

Explore the diverse landscapes and iconic destinations of northern Tanzania with this unfor...

9 Days | Highlights Northern Tanzania

9 Days | Highlights Northern Tanzania

Embark on an amazing safari tour of Northern Tanzania, where the wild heart of Africa beats...

11 Days | Lake Hopping

11 Days | Lake Hopping

Tanzania has many impressive lakes, where nature is breathtaking and home to many animal sp...

11 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

11 Days | Complete Northern Circuit

Northern Tanzania is home to the world’s finest wildlife parks in Africa, offering an...

15 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

15 Days | Northern Tanzania & Zanzibar

This 15-day complete tour is for you, if you want to combine all the highlights of Tanzania...

11 Days | Wilderness & Paradise

11 Days | Wilderness & Paradise

Discover what Tanzania is known for: Wilderness and Paradise. Step off the plane and feel h...