Remote, dramatic, and otherworldly, Lake Natron is one of East Africa’s most striking natural wonders. Located in northern Tanzania near the Kenyan border, this shallow alkaline lake lies at the base of the active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai , the sacred “Mountain of God” to the Maasai people.

With its shimmering red and pink hues, vast open skies, and volcanic backdrop, Lake Natron offers a surreal landscape unlike any other in Africa raw, untouched, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Location & Geography

• Situated in northern Tanzania, within the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley.

• Approximately 240 km from Arusha.

• Close to the Kenya–Tanzania border.

• Elevation: About 600 meters above sea level.

The lake stretches roughly 57 km long and 22 km wide, though its depth is often less than 3 meters. Its high alkalinity creates the dramatic red coloration during dry seasons.

How to Get There

By Road

• 4–6 hours from Arusha via Mto wa Mbu and Engaresero.

• 6–7 hours from Serengeti (via Klein’s Gate area).

• Access requires a 4x4 vehicle due to rough, dusty roads.

By Air

• Charter flights available to nearby airstrips.

• Can be combined with Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari circuits.

Lake Natron is often included as part of a northern Tanzania adventure itinerary linking Arusha, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti.

Main Attractions

1. Flamingo Breeding Grounds

Lake Natron is East Africa’s primary breeding site for lesser flamingos, hosting millions during nesting season. The lake’s alkaline environment protects chicks from predators, making it one of the most important flamingo habitats in the world.

2. Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano

An active volcano and sacred Maasai mountain. Adventurous travelers can attempt a night summit climb to witness sunrise over the Rift Valley.

3. Engaresero Waterfalls

Hidden waterfalls near the lake offer refreshing natural pools surrounded by dramatic rock formations.

4. Rift Valley Landscapes

Vast plains, volcanic terrain, and endless horizons create extraordinary photographic opportunities.

Activities

• Guided walks along the lake shores to observe flamingos.

• Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai (for experienced trekkers).

• Visiting Engaresero Waterfalls for swimming.

• Cultural visits to Maasai communities.

• Birdwatching and landscape photography.

• Sunset viewing across the red-tinted lake.

Lake Natron is best explored on foot with experienced local guides due to its fragile and unique environment.

Wildlife & Birdlife

Though not a traditional Big Five safari destination, Lake Natron supports:

• Millions of lesser flamingos (seasonal breeding).

• Greater flamingos.

• Pelicans, avocets, and other wading birds.

• Gazelles and small antelope in surrounding plains.

• Occasional giraffes and zebras in nearby areas.

The ecosystem is specially adapted to extreme alkaline conditions, making it ecologically unique.

Accommodation

Acommodation options include:

• Eco-lodges with volcano views.

• Tented camps near the lake.

• Community-run campsites in Engaresero.

Stays are simple yet atmospheric, focusing on immersion in nature rather than luxury.

With Eagle Soul Adventure, Lake Natron becomes a bold and unforgettable expedition. We organize 4x4 transfers, guided flamingo walks, Maasai cultural encounters, waterfall hikes, and optional volcano climbs  all carefully curated for safety and authenticity.

Imagine standing at sunset as the lake glows crimson beneath Ol Doinyo Lengai, thousands of flamingos painting the horizon pink, and silence stretching across the Rift Valley.

Lake Natron is wild, sacred, and profoundly beautiful , a destination for true explorers. With Eagle Soul Adventure, your journey into this dramatic frontier is immersive, meaningful, and extraordinary.