In the Maasai language, Oldonyo Lengai means the Mountain of God. It is an active volcano, unique for its natrocarbonatite magma, which appears black rather than glowing red. It erupts at much cooler temperatures than other volcanoes, which means it erupts more often–over a dozen times in the last hundred years. But don’t worry! It’s safe to climb between eruptions, which is most of the time.

Hike through remote Maasai lands in the heart of the Rift Valley, then up the mountain itself, past waterfalls and lava fields to the summit.

Oldonyo Lengai is near Lake Natron, a highly alkaline shallow salt lake that offers fantastic birding, cultural visits to the Maasai tribe, and a significant prehistoric site.

We offer a 4-day trek from Arusha to camp and climb Oldonyo Lengai, either the full climb or shorter hikes to see waterfalls on the lower slopes, and to explore the Lake Natron area.

Day 1:

Depart Arusha in the morning, stop for lunch at Mto wa Mbu, then drive north along the floor of the Great Rift Valley to our campsite at Lake Natron.

Day 2:

With our Maasai guide, explore the salt-crusted, moon-like shores of Lake Natron. We may see flocks of flamingos and pelicans, as well as other birds. Hike to a series of waterfalls and take a cooling dip in the pools below them. Visit the the Engare Sero mud flats, the site of a rare group of 400 well-preserved human footprints estimated to be from 5,000 to 19,000 years old.

Overnight at the Lake Natron campsite.

Day 3:

Hike to the summit of Oldonyo Lengai. We make an early morning start to take advantage of the cool of the morning. Be sure to wear a sun hat and drink plenty of water on this hike. Descend by the same route, taking care in the loose volcanic gravel on the way down.

Overnight at the Lake Natron campsite.

Day 4:

After breakfast, return to Arusha.

Included:

  • Transport to and fro in a private vehicle
  • Pick up and drop off from a central point {Residence}
  • Park fees and any related entry fees.
  • Services of driver and guide.

Excluded: 

  • Picnic lunch
  • Gratitude and tips
  • Personal snack packs –assorted dried fruits/ biscuits, Water bottle
  • Any other item or service not mentioned above.

You will need:

Mount Kenya has its own climate on account of its height. Rain clouds can appear without warning and be gone hours later. An early morning frost is possible at any time of the year and guests should bring a fleece and light rain jacket, although during the heat of the day shorts and T-shirts should suffice.

*A set of warm clothing for the evenings

*Light clothing for day hiking

*Rain clothes

*Comfortable hiking/ sports shoe

*Camera and extra battery.