Hike Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania
June - October/ January to February
The best time to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February, as the weather is stable and the trails are less slippery. While you can climb year-round, the rainy season (March to May) can make the slopes muddy and dangerous. Many climbers start at night to reach the summit for sunrise, which is a challenging but rewarding experience
What to know about climbing
Ol Doinyo Lengai is located in northern Tanzania within the East African Rift valley, specifically south of Lake Natron. Its remote location is part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it accessible yet preserved in a largely untouched state.
- Night Climb: You will likely start your climb late in the evening, around 11 p.m., to reach the summit for sunrise.
- Physical demands: The climb is steep and physically demanding due to the loose volcanic ash and gravel on the trail
- Weather: Be prepared for a variety of conditions, as temperatures can be chilly at night and the wind can pick up. You will also need to be prepared for the possibility of rain
- Equipment: Proper hiking boots, warm layers, a headlamp, and plenty of water are essential.
For full booking please click here.
Prepare for your trip
Here is some description text. Sit at decore efficiañtur ullámcorper. Sít tempór iríure atomorum ex, vim clita conveñire in. Malorum ponderúm elóquentiam te íus, ex rebum expetenda séd. Ex magna debet nec. Id enim definitioñes vix, nó qúo volutpat disseñtiunt, ad nam corporá reprimique conséquuntur. Ut duó stet trítani, quo ex velit conséquat coñcludaturque. Sed ei eirmód póstulant, ad nám populo dólorum desérunt, adhúc erant mentitum ín méa.
Suspendisse mauris. Fusce accumsan mollis eros. Pellentesque a diam sit amet mi ullamcorper vehicula. Integer adipiscing risus a sem. Nullam quis massa sit amet nibh viverra malesuada. Nunc sem lacus, accumsan quis, faucibus non, congue vel, arcu. Ut scelerisque hendrerit tellus. Integer sagittis. Vivamus a mauris eget arcu gravida tristique. Nunc iaculis mi in ante. Vivamus imperdiet nibh feugiat est.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Lake Natron
Morning: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Transfer to Lake Natron (approximately 5-6 hours’ drive).
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation near Lake Natron.
Late Afternoon: Explore the area around Lake Natron. Spend time observing the lake’s distinctive colors and wildlife, especially the flamingos.
Evening:Enjoy a sunset view over Lake Natron.
Day 2: Oldoinyo Lengai Hike
Night: Depart for Oldoinyo Lengai (starts around 11-12 AM to reach the summit by sunrise).
Midday: Return to your base. Relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
Afternoon: Option to explore nearby Maasai villages. Learn about their culture and traditions.
Evening: Return to your accommodation, dinner, and rest.
Day 3: Lake Natron Day Tour
Morning: Visit the nearby waterfalls (Engaresero or Ngare Sero) for some hiking and swimming in natural pools.
Afternoon: Return to Lake Natron for further exploration. Consider a guided to observe wildlife up close or relax by the lakeshore.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner with a view over the lake.
Day 4: Depature
Morning:Enjoy breakfast with views of the lake.
Mid-Morning:Free time for last-minute photography or a stroll by the lake.
Afternoon:Depart from Lake Natron to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.
TREKKING TIPS
- Make sure to check weather and volcanic activity reports before your hike.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking gear.
- Engage a local guide for safety and to enhance your experience