This acitve volcano is a holy spot for the Maasai. In fact its name literally means 'Mountain of god' in the Maasai langauge. Maasai from both Tanzania and Kenya who practice their traditional religion come here to offer sacrifice to the god. The climb is void of shade and vegetation, making it a hot and dusty trek. The volcano has an elevation of 2,962m, a rise of 2,000m above the surrounding plain. The climbs start in the very early hours to avoid the scorching sun. The climb itself can be done in half a day, but it is most often combined with a longer trek. The two most popular itinerary options are outlined below but of course we can make alterations to fit your desires.
Day 1 - Moshi or Arusha - Lake Natron (Ngare Sero)
Departing from your hotel Moshi or Arusha in the morning we drive to Mtu wa Mbu (Lake Manyara) for lunch. After
lunch you drive north along the bottom of the Great Rift Valley wall to Lake Natron and the village of Ngare Sero at the
base of Ol Doinyo Lengai. Overnight at a campsite by the lake.
Day 2 Lake Natron - Ngare Sero to Ol Doinyo Lengai
From Lake Natron to Ngare Sero is a 3-hour walk. Lengai is best approached from the west. Between Ngare Sero
and Lengai's lower slopes is another 3 hours walk. The vehicle will go on ahead here so that it is there to take you
up this large gully; saving you at least 6 hours of additional walking. Overnight camp in the gully.
Day 3 Ol Doinyo Lengai summit and back to Lake Natron campsite
A very early start in order to gain as much height as possible in the cool of the morning. Sun hats and a large
water in-take are essential. Descend by the same route.
Great care should be taken on the way down: loose volcanic gravel on bare rock makes it perilous going in places. Bringing
trekking poles are very helpful. Overnight at the Lake Natron camp site.
Day 4 Lake Natron - Moshi or Arusha Town
Departing after breakfast we return back to Moshi or Arusha town where you will be returned to your hotel.
Day 1 Moshi to Nainokanoka Village
You will be transported to Nainokanoka village via Ngorongoro Crater with your guide and park ranger. All gear, food and
water will be carried by donkeys, lead by a Maasai warrior. Dinner and overnight at Nainokanoka village Campsite.
Day 2 Nainokanoka Village to Elbulbul
After breakfast, begin trekking to the Elbulbul Depression where you will have dinner and overnight at Elbulbul Campsite.
Day 3 Elbulbul to Empakai
Depart from Elbulbul to the rim of the Empakai Crater. You can spend several hours exploring the crater, returning to the
campsite for dinner and overnight.
Day 4 Empakai to Oldoinyo L’ Engai Basecamp
This day you will trek from Empakai to the base of Oldonyo Lengai. Here you will have
dinner and overnight at the campsite.
Day 5 Ol Doinyo Lengai summit and back to Lake Natron campsite
A very early start in order to gain as much height as possible in the cool of the morning. Sun hats and a large
water in-take are essential. Descend by the same route.
Great care should be taken on the way down: loose volcanic gravel on bare rock makes it perilous going in places. Bringing
trekking poles are very helpful.
Day 6 Oldoinyo Lengai base camp to Lake Natron
Depart for Lake Natron where you may tour the waterfalls at Engare Sero Gorge. Dinner and overnight at Kamakia campsite.
Day 7 Lake Natron To Moshi
You are free to explore the Lake Natron area until about noon, when you will be picked up for your return trip hotel
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