Ol Doinyo Lengai
Embark on a thrilling 3-day adventure from Arusha to Ol Doinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s only active volcano. Travel through the stunning Great Rift Valley, explore the alkaline Lake Natron, and refresh at the Engaresero waterfalls. Begin your challenging night hike at 10:00 PM, reaching the summit at sunrise for breathtaking views. After descending, enjoy a well-deserved rest at a lodge. On the final day, explore Maasai culture or take a scenic safari before returning to Arusha. This adventure combines hiking, culture, and nature for an unforgettable experience!
What to Expect from the Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb
Embarking on this 3-day adventure to Ol Doinyo Lengai is a thrilling experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and a challenging yet rewarding climb. Here’s what you can expect:
- Scenic Journey & Cultural Encounters
- The drive from Arusha to Lake Natron offers stunning views of the Great Rift Valley, Maasai villages, and wildlife along the way.
- You will get a chance to interact with the Maasai people and learn about their traditional way of life.
- Lake Natron & Waterfall Excursion
- Explore the unique Lake Natron, famous for its alkaline waters and large flocks of flamingos.
- Take a refreshing dip in the cool natural waterfalls near the lake.
- Witness the rugged and remote beauty of this volcanic region.
- Nighttime Climb & Breathtaking Summit Views
- Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only active carbonatite volcano in the world, offering a unique climbing experience.
- The trek starts at night (10:00 PM), making it a challenging yet rewarding ascent under the stars.
- Reaching the summit at sunrise, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the Rift Valley, Lake Natron, and distant peaks like Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Experience the volcanic crater, which sometimes emits smoke and small lava flows.
- A Physically Demanding Hike
- The climb is steep and requires good physical fitness and endurance.
- The descent can be tough on the knees due to the loose volcanic ash and rocky terrain.
- Rest & Recovery
- After the climb, you’ll be transferred to a comfortable lodge for breakfast and a full day of rest and relaxation.
- Scenic Drive Back to Arusha
- Enjoy the stunning landscapes once more as you journey back to Arusha, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Travel to Ol Doinyo Lengai – Lake Natron Excursion & Waterfalls
Your adventure begins with a morning departure from Arusha as you embark on a scenic drive towards Ol Doinyo Lengai, passing through breathtaking landscapes and Maasai villages. Arriving in the evening, you will explore the unique beauty of Lake Natron, known for its alkaline waters and flamingo populations. A visit to the nearby waterfalls will provide a refreshing experience before settling in for a brief rest.
Later in the night, at 22:00 (10:00 PM), the challenging trek up Ol Doinyo Lengai—an active volcano and the “Mountain of God” to the Maasai—begins under the star-lit sky.
Day 2: Descend & Rest at the Lodge
After an exhilarating climb and witnessing the sunrise from the summit, you will begin your descent, arriving back at the base around 12:00 PM (noon). A transfer to your lodge will follow, where you will enjoy a well-deserved breakfast. The rest of the day will be dedicated to relaxation and recovery from the demanding trek.
Day 3: Return to Arusha
After breakfast, you will start your journey back to Arusha, reminiscing about the unforgettable experience of climbing one of Tanzania’s most unique volcanic mountains. Arrival in Arusha will mark the end of your adventure.
Extra Excursions to Add to Your Ol Doinyo Lengai Trip
If you want to enhance your 3-day Ol Doinyo Lengai adventure, consider adding these exciting excursions to make your trip even more memorable:
- Engaresero Waterfalls Hike (Day 1 or Day 2 Afternoon)
- A short trek through scenic gorges leading to a beautiful waterfall near Lake Natron.
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, clear water.
- Perfect for relaxing after a long journey or after your mountain climb.
- Flamingo Watching at Lake Natron (Day 1 or Day 3 Morning)
- Visit the breeding grounds of thousands of lesser flamingos in the shallow waters of Lake Natron.
- Learn about the lake’s unique alkaline ecosystem and its importance to birdlife.
- A great opportunity for photography and birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Sunset Walk to the Rift Valley Escarpment (Day 1 Evening)
- Enjoy a scenic walk to a viewpoint overlooking the Great Rift Valley.
- Witness a breathtaking sunset over the vast plains and volcanic landscapes.
- A relaxing way to end the day before preparing for the night climb.
- Visit to a Traditional Maasai Boma (Day 2 Afternoon or Day 3 Morning)
- Experience authentic Maasai culture by visiting a traditional homestead (Boma).
- Learn about their customs, daily life, and ancient traditions.
- Participate in traditional Maasai dances and ceremonies.
- Game Drive in the Lake Natron Area (Day 3 Morning)
- Spot unique wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, oryx, and other animals adapted to this semi-arid environment.
- Explore the dry, rugged terrain surrounding the lake, home to rare species.
- This can be a great way to end your trip before heading back to Arusha.
- Camel Safari with the Maasai (Day 3 Morning)
- Embark on a camel ride led by Maasai guides, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.
- Ride through the dramatic volcanic scenery and learn about the local environment.
- A great alternative for those who want to experience the region without too much walking.
Adding any of these excursions will give you a deeper connection with nature, culture, and adventure in the Ol Doinyo Lengai and Lake Natron region. Let me know if you’d like to adjust the itinerary to include any of them! 🚀
END OF THE TOUR
Inclusions:
- Transportation: Round-trip transfer from Arusha to Ol Doinyo Lengai and Lake Natron.
- Accommodation: Lodge stay for rest and relaxation after the hike.
- Meals: Breakfast on Day 2 and Day 3, as well as other meals as specified.
- Guides: Experienced local guide for the climb and excursions.
- Climbing Permit: Entry fees to Ol Doinyo Lengai and related areas.
- Excursions: Lake Natron visit, waterfall excursion, and Maasai cultural experience.
- Safari: Optional game drive or camel safari in the Lake Natron area.
- Support Staff: Porters and support crew for the climb.
- This tour starts and ends in Arusha
- Book your own international flights when using this operator
- A transfer from and back to the airport is included
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost