Located in northern Tanzania near the Kenyan border, Lake Natron is approximately a six-hour drive from Arusha. It is a region far off the beaten track, consisting of an almost pristine forest reserve and vast grassy plains interspersed with mountains, rocky hills and even a living volcano that rises from the bottom of the Rift Valley to an altitude of 2,960 meters – Ol Doinyo Lengai – which means “God’s Mountain” in Maasai language. The scenery here is incredible, among the most spectacular in Africa.
Better known for its breath-taking vistas than its limited wildlife, Lake Natron lends itself well to bird watching, as its shallow waters are home to a profusion of water birds such as storks. The lake being a breeding ground for around 2.5 million Lesser Flamingos that congregate on its shores to feast on the blue-green algae, a truly fabulous sight is in store for you!
You will not be able to swim here, except in the nearby Saitoti River waterfalls, but there are many ways to discover this unique place nonetheless.
If you are an avid hiker, you can climb Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. At the top, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro and all the volcanoes of the surrounding Rift Valley. The more adventurous travellers may enjoy climbing up to the crater at night to enjoy the stunning panoramas at sunrise.
The area is also known for its surrounding villages, mainly consisting of Maasai who are there in part to benefit from the local tourism. Travellers are in turn able to enjoy some of the best and most authentic cultural experiences in Tanzania!