Oldoinyo Lengai

Oldoinyo Lengai is in the Lake Natron area in the north of Tanzania, right on the Kenyan border and extremely off the beaten track. The drive to Lake Natron, with the imposing volcano Oldoinyo Lengai in the background is surreal and breathtaking. The landscape has been pock-marked with volcanic activity; mini calderas and the great Rift Valley punctuate the horizon. After settling in to camp at the foot of the slopes of Oldoinyo Lengai and stretching your legs we recommend that you venture up to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim.

The base of Ol Doinyo L'Engai, on the Engaruka Plains, lies at about 800m. The Masai's Mountain of God is the only active carboniferous volcano in the world and as such provides a genuinely unique opportunity for adventure-lovers and photographers. The steep ascent to the top (currently just under 3000m) requires determination and good fitness levels, but the views alone are more than worth the effort. It is usually possible to stroll over solidified lava flows, and walk amongst the lava cones belching out sulphurous gases. Ideally the hike begins at 12.30am, and the summit is reached as the sun rises over the wind-scoured expanse of the valley below.

You will need a fleece and hat for the summit, as the wind can be chilly at 3000m. Take a torch, and enough batteries to last till sunrise. Enjoy the views and explore the solidified lava flows before descending back to the vehicle and continuing on to your next destination.

For further information on visiting Oldoinyo Lengai please Contact Us.