Conservation areaNorthern Tanzania
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A wildlife-filled volcanic crater and the Maasai highlands.
Soda lake · Ramsar wetland
Lake Natron
Flamingo breeding grounds below an active volcano.
- Northern Tanzania
- Best: Jan–Feb, Jun–Oct
Overview
- Status
- Ramsar wetland of international importance
- Volcano
- Ol Doinyo Lengai, about 2,960 m
- From Mto wa Mbu
- About 3–4 hours on rough roads
Lake Natron is a shallow, highly alkaline lake on the Kenyan border in the Gregory Rift. Salt-loving microorganisms colour it red, and it is the main breeding site for East Africa's lesser flamingos.
Above it rises Ol Doinyo Lengai (about 2,960 m), the Maasai 'mountain of God' and the only active volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava.
Near Engaresero village, human footprints preserved in volcanic mud, waterfalls in a narrow gorge and Maasai communities make it a rewarding detour between Lake Manyara and the Serengeti.
- Flamingos
Lesser flamingos feed and breed on the lake.
- Ol Doinyo Lengai
A steep overnight climb for a sunrise summit.
- Engaresero footprints
Ancient human footprints in volcanic mud.
Things to do
- Flamingo walk
With a local guide along the shore.
- Waterfall hike
Wade up the Ngare Sero gorge.
- Ol Doinyo Lengai climb
Overnight ascent with an experienced guide.
Wildlife and nature to look for
When to go
Dry season, June to October, is best for roads and the volcano climb. The rains make the road difficult.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Wetter
- May: Wetter
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Best
- Nov: Good
- Dec: Good
Costs
Village and district fees are collected at checkpoints on the road and at Engaresero, and guides are hired locally; none of these rates are published online. Ask your operator to include them in your quote.
Getting there
- By roadFrom Mto wa MbuAbout 3–4 hours
Rough road north through the Rift Valley; a 4x4 is needed.
- By roadFrom Serengeti (northern Loliondo)About 4–5 hours
Through Loliondo, linking Natron with the northern Serengeti.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
Photos
Know before you go
- Midday temperatures often pass 40°C; walk early or late.
- Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano; check its current state and climb only with an experienced guide.
- Foreign visitors must buy Tanzania's US$44 inbound travel insurance (92 days) before arrival: from NIC for the mainland or ZIC for Zanzibar. One policy covers both; residents of EAC and SADC countries are exempt.
Frequently asked questions
Can you see flamingos at Lake Natron?
Yes, flamingos feed in the shallows; the breeding colonies are far out on the lake and off-limits.
Can you climb Ol Doinyo Lengai?
Yes, usually overnight to reach the summit at sunrise. It is steep and loose, and only for fit climbers with a guide.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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Places to pair with Lake Natron
Conservation area
National park
National park