MOUNT OL DOINYO LENGAI

South of Lake Natron in the eastern rift valley of North Tanzania, lies Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai (locally regarded as the sacred Mountain of God in the Maasai Language), an active volcano. At 2878meters, Mt. Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only known volcano in the world that sometimes erupts this highly fluid lava contains almost zero silicon and is also much cooler than other form of lavas. During the day time, the lava which flows looks like black oil. Some tourists report that it resembles a mud-like flow. But when it comes in contact with the atmospheric moisture, it turns white over a period of time. During dry period, it takes time for the whitening process, but during the rainy periods, it turns white immediately after being ejected.

Mount Oldoinyo Lengai also experiences phase of explosive activity and the lava that flows out is concentrated in silicate materials. During the initial phases of eruption, strong lava fountains are seen, but no fluid lava and ash eruption. It is also accompanied by rock eruption and explosions. Most recent eruptions of this type happened 2007-2008 and before that in 1966-1967. As per statistics, Oldoinyo Lengai erupts every seven years and plumes of smoke blow out of the crater. When there’s no volcanic activity, tourists can walk down into the crater floor.

From the summit crater, the view to the north includes the hot barren salt flats of Lake Natron which endlessly stretches into the distance. The temperature around this lake exceeds 40 degrees centigrade and accommodates a few animals which includes flocks of flamingos. They make the salty surface on upraised mounds their breeding and nesting ground. On the eastern side, views of Mt. Kilimanjaro dominate the landscape. On the west, you can see the forested escarpments and hills which are part of the Great African Rift Valley.

To the south, Crater highlands can be seen along with views of Ngorongoro which is a prime wildlife conservation area in Africa. The day time heat, unavailability of water, steep slopes filled with ash and crumbly rock make the ascent to Oldoinyo Lengai challenging and demanding.

An early start is recommended and the best approach is from the west where the morning sun can be avoided for a while.

Day 01 :

Depart Moshi or Arusha early in the morning and drive to Ngaresero village (Lake Natron) with packed lunch. This is about 8 hours driving. Dinner and overnight at Kamakia camp.

Day 02:

At around 1: 00 am drive to the base of the Ol’doinyo Lengai Mountain to start the climb. Reach at the summit during sunrise and spend some time there before coming down to the base of the mountain. From there you will be transferred back to Kamakia camp for shower and rest. Dinner and overnight at Kamakia camp.

Day 03:

Breakfast then drive back to Arusha or Moshi. This depends on the itinerary.