2-Day Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai Hiking Safari

After an early pick-up from your Arusha hotel, the drive north to Lake Natron passes the Rift Valley escarpment and drops onto the alkaline flats below the volcano. A Maasai guide leads a shoreline walk in search of lesser flamingos before the afternoon visit to Ngare Sero Waterfall, a hidden canyon where cool water cascades through volcanic rock. Dinner and a briefing at the lodge, then a rest before the midnight departure for the summit hike.

Distance: Approximately 170 km from Arusha, 3 to 4 hours driving

Activity: Flamingo shoreline walk, Ngare Sero Waterfall hike

Accommodation: Lodge at Lake Natron

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Departure around midnight or 1am for the ascent of Ol Doinyo Lengai, a steep, demanding hike on loose volcanic ash that rises 1,100m above the lakeshore. The summit crater is reached by dawn, with views across Lake Natron and, on clear mornings, the Serengeti plains beyond. After the descent, breakfast at the lodge is followed by the drive back to Arusha.

Distance: Summit hike approximately 5 to 7 hours return; then drive back to Arusha

Activity: Night summit hike of Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,962m), return drive to Arusha

Accommodation: N/A, end of trip

Meals: Breakfast