Ol Doinyo Lengai Overview
About 240km (149 miles) from Arusha town in the Great Rift Valley, Ol Doinyo Lengai is known as the Mountain of God by the Maasai people. It is an active volcano, and locals climb to its summit to ask the gods for rain, children, or a suitable spouse.
Located just south of Lake Natron in the Rift Valley, in the heart of Maasai country, Ol Doinyo Lengai is regarded as a sacred mountain. From its summit, you can view the barren salt flats of Lake Natron to the north, the crater Highlands and Ngorongoro Game Reserve to the south, Kilimanjaro to the east, and the western escarpments of the Rift Valley.
Every seven years, Lengai erupts, sending plumes of smoke into the sky. Geologists describe it as the strangest volcano in the world because of its “cold” black lava with a low viscosity and temperature (500°C to 700°C). Hikers face a challenging climb over volcanic ash and gravelly slopes, often starting at midnight.
From the summit, trekkers are rewarded with incredible views of meteor showers, shooting stars, Kilimanjaro, Meru, and the Serengeti plains. The northernmost volcano in the Crater Highlands, Ol Doinyo Lengai (2878m) is an almost perfect cone with steep sides and hot steam vents at the peak. Climbing requires a guide, stamina, and a head for heights.
Tips for climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai: Many combine the trek with a safari in Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Spend the day swimming at Ngare Sero Waterfall or canoeing on Lake Natron before setting out at night. Fees include park, conservation, and rescue costs.
Tanzania is home to many mountains such as Mt. Hanang (3417 m) and Udzungwa (2576 m). Conquering Ol Doinyo Lengai offers a unique and lifetime experience.
Inclusions
- Park and conservation fees.
- Professional guide and assistance.
- Camping equipment and meals during trek.
- Transfers from Arusha to trailhead and back.
- Safety briefing and gear check.
Exclusions
- Flights, visas, and personal transfers outside the itinerary.
- Personal expenses, souvenirs, and tips.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary.
Escarpment Climb
Climb the Rift Wall while enjoying panoramic views of the green oasis below.
Manyara Walk & Bike
Cycle or walk around Lake Manyara, spotting wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
Village Cultural Tour
Visit local farms, wood-carvers, and banana beer makers for an authentic experience.
Miwaleni Waterfall Hike
Hike to Miwaleni Waterfall and swim in the refreshing pool beneath the falls.
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