6 Days Walking safari Lake Natron
Lake Natron, a salt and soda lake located in northern Tanzania’s Arusha Region, lies near the Kenyan border within the Gregory Rift, an eastern branch of the East African Rift Valley. Fed primarily by the Ewaso Ng’iro River from central Kenya, this unique lake is renowned as the primary breeding ground for approximately 2.5 million lesser flamingos. These flamingos, which are considered near-threatened due to their dependence on this singular location, gather here to feed on blue-green algae that give them their distinctive pink hue.
The lake’s ecological significance and the dramatic relationship between the flamingos and their habitat have inspired various nature documentaries. After exploring the lake’s remarkable features, continue your journey back to Arusha.
Day 1: Arusha to Olmoti Crater via Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Begin your journey early in the morning with a scenic drive from Arusha, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to reach the base camp near Nainokanoka village, at the foothills of Olmoti Crater. The crater floor is dotted with streams that cascade through the Munge waterfalls, ultimately feeding into Lake Magadi within the Ngorongoro Crater.
Olmoti Crater is home to a variety of wildlife, including Bohor reedbuck, buffalo, and eland, providing a unique opportunity to observe these mammals in their natural habitat. The crater’s slopes are adorned with diverse plant life such as the towering Giant St. John’s Wort and Hygenia trees. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting nectar-feeding species like the Golden-winged Sunbird, Eastern Double-collared Sunbird, Malachite Sunbird, and Mountain Greenbul in this vibrant ecosystem.
Day 2: Olmoti Crater to Empakaai Crater
After a hearty breakfast, depart from Olmoti Crater and embark on a trek toward the stunning Empakaai Crater, where the camp is set along the crater rim. Nestled about 40 km northeast of Tanzania’s renowned Ngorongoro Crater, the relatively secluded Empakaai Crater is an extraordinary natural wonder. This impressive caldera, a collapsed volcanic structure, features towering cliffs encircling a salt lake approximately 6 km in diameter, sitting some 300 meters below.
The descent into the crater takes about 30 minutes, offering breathtaking views along the way. Once at the crater floor, allocate at least an hour to explore its unique environment. A complete walk around the lake takes approximately 4 hours, providing ample time to soak in the serene surroundings. The ascent back up the steep path requires about 45 minutes to an hour.
While the shoreline’s proximity to flamingos offers some charm, it may not be as captivating as the views from above. The salt crust near the lake is delicate and does not permit close access to the water, and the tough, short grasslands may appear sparse. Nonetheless, the distant hillsides and expansive horizons create a remarkable landscape that is well worth the visit. Empakaai Crater is an excellent destination for walking amidst beautiful scenery, offering a tranquil experience in nature.
Day 3: Empakaai Camp to Acacia Tree Camp
After breakfast at Empakaai Camp, set out for a day of exploration across the African plains. Today’s trek will cover approximately 5 hours, leading us through diverse landscapes before reaching our next destination, the Acacia Tree Camp.
Nestled on a ridge between the rift valley walls, Acacia Tree Camp offers breathtaking views, including a stunning panorama of the Oldonyo Lengai peak. This camp serves as a perfect vantage point for observing the dramatic scenery of the Rift Valley. After your walk, relax and enjoy the serene environment at the camp. Spend the night immersed in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.
Day 4: Acacia Tree Camp to Lake Natron Camp
Early in the morning, depart from Acacia Tree Camp and embark on a hike through the rift valley. Traverse ridges from the striking Oldonyo Lengai Mountain to the expansive savannah landscape surrounding Lake Natron.
Oldonyo Lengai, meaning “The Mountain of God” in Maasai, is a remarkable stratovolcano standing at 2,962 meters above sea level. It offers direct views into the caldera of Tanzania’s only officially certified active volcano and the world’s only carbonate volcano. This unique geological feature has a storied history of eruptions, with records dating back to 1883. The most significant eruption occurred on September 4, 2007, sending a plume of ash and steam up to 18 kilometers and covering the north and west flanks with fresh lava flows. Subsequent eruptions continued into 2008, with notable activity in March, April, and August. A visit to the summit in June 2014 revealed extensive cracking and significant gas emissions.
Upon reaching Lake Natron, set up camp and enjoy the tranquil setting amid the dramatic volcanic landscape.
Day 5: Full Day at Lake Natron
Begin your day with an early morning ascent of Oldonyo Lengai, experiencing the thrill of climbing this unique volcano. The climb offers unparalleled views and a closer look at the mountain’s volcanic features.
In the late afternoon, explore the area around Lake Natron. You can choose to visit the lake itself or take a scenic walk to the nearby waterfalls. Both options provide opportunities to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and unique landscape of the region.
Return to camp for the night, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the remarkable sights experienced.
Day 6: Lake Natron to Arusha
Early in the morning, depart from Lake Natron, and drive back to Arusha.
Includes
All meals
Accommodations in Tents
All Park fees, camping fee, and village fees, Oldonyo Lengai fees, camp site fees Ranger fees, guide, and crew salary Water Donkeys fees
