Ol Doinyo Lengai “Mountain of God”
Standing at 2,878 meters above the Soda Ash Lake Natron, the Mountain of GOD is famous to the Maasai community that inhabits the area.
This mountain is situated in the Ngorongoro highlands and the African Rift Valley. , lying just south of Lake Natron in the heart of Maasai country, and locally regarded as a sacred mountain. It is about 230 kilometers Northwest of Arusha, northern Tanzania.
Mount Oldonyo Lengai Trekking Climbing Time
A climb takes about 6-7 hours to reach the summit crater of this strato-volcano is 2962 meters (9,718 feet) above sea level. The ascent is demanding due to the daytime heat, lack of water, and steep and unsuitable ash slopes. As well as crumbly rocks and considerable height gain. Normally, ascending to the summit starts early in the morning to reach the summit at sunrise.
While on the summit, one can see the Soda Lake Natron, which is a good nesting site for different birds. The birds around the lake are especially the Flamingos, pelicans, and geese, and more than 350 different types have been recorded to date.
Looking north from its summit crater, the hot, barren salt flats of Lake Natron stretch into the distance. To the eastern horizon is Mount Kilimanjaro. To the west, the forested escarpments and hills form the western slopes of the Rift Valley.
Other Activities Involved in Mount Oldonyo Lengai Trekking
This area is also an ideal place for a walking safari escorted by the Maasai guides with weapons. On the walking trip, the tourists can see wild animals and birds as well. Some of the animals are the Olive baboon, Vervet monkey, Hyena, Jackal, Grant’s gazelle, Impala, Zebra, Giraffes, etc. While the birds are like Flamingos (the Lesser and Greater), Pelicans, Geese, Secretary birds, Larks, and others.
The nearby Maasai Villages give you a chance to interact with them. And you can learn about their cultures, taboos, and traditions. A visit to the nearby waterfall and swimming in it is one of the activities within this area.
Climbing Ol donyo Lengai
You climb this 3,000-meter-high ‘Mountain of God’ (as it is called by the Maasai) at night. This is the only active carbonatite volcano in the world. With the moonlight, this is a mystical and unforgettable experience. From the mountain, you have an indescribably beautiful view.
The walk to the top of Ol’Doinyo Lengai is very intense due to the many loose grains on the mountain.
It is important to know that the daily conditions on the mountain are changing. The guide can decide on the spot to cancel the climb to the top.
Duration: 12 hours.
Walk on the Great Rift
The Great Rift Valley (also known as the East African Slenk or Great Slenk) is a beautiful area.
At Lake Natron, you can take a beautiful walk along the Rift Valley. With the majestic mountain Ol’Donyo Lengai in the background, this is a special day.
This walk starts at the Lake Natron Camp early in the morning. From here, you walk to the foot of the Rift Valley wall. You walk along this wall to the beginning of the Ngare Sero gorge. You climb this to enjoy the dawn on top. Breakfast is served while you enjoy the breathtaking view at the top of this gorge.
After breakfast, you descend via a different route to return to Lake Natron Camp.
Duration: 6 hours
Waterfalls and Springs
From Lake Natron Camp, you can take a beautiful walk to the Engare Sero gorge, where there are several waterfalls and springs.
You can opt for a half-day or a full-day tour. You walk to the waterfalls where you can swim and cool off. This oasis is a beautiful mix of tropical palm trees and volcanic rocks.
Duration: 4 – 6 hours, incl. picnic basket.