4 Day Adventure in Climb Ol Doinyo Lengai and Explore Lake Natron

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Touchdown in Tanzania and Drive to Lake Natron
2 stops
1
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha International Airport (ARK), you will be welcomed by a Stunning Kilimanjaro representative, after which your adventure begins with a scenic drive to Lake Natron. You will pass through the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and picturesque Maasai villages. As you are getting closer to Lake Natron, the landscape becomes increasingly barren and dry. The surface of the lake lies just at an altitude of 600 meters above sea level, while the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley rises steeply around it, creating an intensely hot and arid environment. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax before your afternoon adventure.
Admission ticket free
2
Your guide will drive you to the rim of the valley for a walking excursion, led by a local Maasai guide. You will enjoy a gentle hike through the striking volcanic landscape, ending up at the highlight of this excursion: the Ngaresero Waterfall. Here, you can take a refreshing swim and cool off in the crystal-clear waters, while soaking in the beauty and tranquility of your surroundings. After the excursion, you have the opportunity to relax by the pool and rest, before dinner is being served.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Sunrise Lake Walk to Lake Natron
2 stops
3
Accompanied by a local Maasai guide, you will have an early excursion to the shores of Lake Natron. Even before breakfast, you will depart from your lodge and walk through the otherworldly landscape of Lake Natron, a vital breeding ground for thousands of flamingos and home to an otherworldly high-alkaline ecosystem. Enjoy being surrounded by complete silence before heading back to your lodge. After your return at the lodge, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast. Spend the rest of the day resting for your nightly adventure.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
4
In the late evening, gear up for the ascent of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the world’s only active carbonatite volcano, revered by the Maasai as the “Mountain of God.” Your trek begins around midnight, to avoid the intense daytime heat, with a drive to the nearby village Engare Sero. From there, you begin your hike toward the mountain's base and start your ascent. While the climb is steep and challenging, it’s a thrilling experience for seasoned trekkers seeking a unique and otherworldly adventure. The name "Ol Doinyo Lengai", translates from the Maasai language as "Mountain of God" and they believe it is a sacred place where their deity, Engai, resides. According to Maasai tradition, Engai is the source of life and controls essential elements such as rain, fertility, and protection. The mountain's frequent eruptions of unique, black natrocarbonatite lava are seen by the Maasai as a sign of the deity's presence and power.
7 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Reaching the Sacred Summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai(2,962 m)
1 stop
5
Reach the summit at dawn and be rewarded with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Natron bathed in the first light of day. Witness recent volcanic activity and marvel at the unique carbonatite lava formations. After taking in the breathtaking scenery and the stunning views, begin your descent. Trekking poles are recommended for navigating the steep, loose terrain. Once back at the base, enjoy a well-earned rest and reflect on your remarkable achievement. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and recovering, or explore more of Lake Natron’s surrounding area if you have the energy.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 4
The Journey Back to Arusha
1 stop
6
After a hearty breakfast, enjoy a leisurely drive back to Arusha, stopping at scenic viewpoints and souvenir shops along the way. In the afternoon, you will arrive in Arusha, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport. Depending on your flight schedule and whether you're heading for a beach holiday in Zanzibar, this marks the end of your Ol Doinyo Lengai Adventure with Stunning Kilimanjaro. We hope you leave with lasting memories, stunning photos, and a deeper connection to the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania.
4 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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