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+44 207 384 2332 Plan your trip

Tanzania

Lake Natron

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Why Visit Lake Natron

Lake Natron, located in northern Tanzania near the Kenyan border, is one of Africa’s most otherworldly landscapes, and loved by hikers and photographers in particular. Between June and October this highly alkaline lake turns vivid red and orange hues thanks to salt-loving microorganisms, creating a surreal contrast against the arid Rift Valley surroundings.

What makes Lake Natron particularly unusual is its role as the only regular breeding ground for East Africa’s lesser flamingos. Between August and October, hundreds of thousands gather to nest on the lake’s isolated islands, a natural spectacle that’s both visually striking and ecologically vital. The harsh environment deters predators, offering a rare sanctuary for these vulnerable birds.

The surrounding region is geologically dramatic. The active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai looms nearby—revered by the Maasai and known for its unusual natrocarbonatite lava. The combination of lunar-like terrain, Maasai cultural encounters, and low visitor numbers gives the area a distinct sense of remoteness.

Travellers come not for traditional safari game viewing, but for a deeper immersion into East Africa’s ecological and geological extremes. Hikes to waterfalls, guided flamingo walks, and the possibility of climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai appeal to those seeking rare and challenging experiences in one of Tanzania’s least commercialised environments.

Did you know?

The shores of Lake Natron are home to some of the world’s oldest known hominid footprints, preserved in hardened volcanic ash. Discovered in the Engare Sero area, these footprints—dating back around 12,000 years—capture the movements of at least 20 individuals, offering a rare glimpse into prehistoric human behaviour.

Elephants and the volcano

The slopes of Ol Doinyo Lengai are rich in natural salts and minerals deposited by volcanic activity—and local elephants are known to climb the lower slopes to lick these salty surfaces. This unusual behaviour, rarely seen elsewhere, provides vital minerals the elephants can’t easily find in the surrounding terrain.

Highlights of Lake Natron

Remote and dramatic scenery: Stark volcanic plains, steep escarpments, and the shimmering lake create one of East Africa’s most visually striking and untouched landscapes.
Sunrise and sunset reflections: The lake’s glassy surface acts like a mirror, producing extraordinary light displays at dawn and dusk—especially when flocks of flamingos are present.
Engare Sero Waterfalls: A short hike through a narrow gorge leads to refreshing waterfalls—one of the few sources of fresh water in the area.
Challenging trekking terrain: From climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai to exploring lava fields and rift valley escarpments, the region offers routes for adventurous walkers.
Exclusivity: Far from Tanzania’s main safari circuit, the area offers a rare sense of solitude and space, even during peak season.
Stargazing opportunities: With almost no light pollution, the night skies over Lake Natron are exceptionally clear—ideal for viewing constellations and tracking the Milky Way.

Where to stay

Where to stay in Lake Natron

In such a remote spot there is not a huge choice, the good news is that it is a wonderful camp.

Safari Camp

Lake Natron Camp, Lake Natron

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Getting to Lake Natron

For hikers this is the perfect spot to reach after a few days on foot. Perhaps you will come from Empakaai in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or from Olduvai Gorge.

There is also an airstrip or you can reach the region by car from Arusha, a journey of between 5 and 6 hours.