Mount Ol’doinyo Lengai
Mount Ol’doinyo Lengai, The term Ol’doinyo Lenkai, signifying “Mountain of God,” derives from the Maa language spoken by the Maasai in the Ngorongoro region. The Maasai people offer prayers to God “Enkai” or “Engai,” whom they see as the Creator of all things on this active volcanic mountain.
Ol’doinyo Lenkai is the sole active volcanic peak in the East African Rift Valley Region, drawing numerous geologists globally for research purposes. Carbonated lava is dark brown upon extrusion but quickly reacts to form moisture, which hydrates and then transforms into secondary alteration minerals that give the rock a white hue. The Maasai hold that the “white rock” represents the white beards of “Enkai.”
Numerous people annually ascend this mountain situated in Northern Tanzania. This 9,442-foot peak should not be underestimated, as its steep ascent requires much willpower to ascend. Climbing Ol’doinyo Lenkai does not necessitate technical skills to reach the summit. At the apex, the little cones created by lava are observable along the crater’s rim. Although Ol’doinyo Lenkai’s volcano erupts frequently, there are no documented instances of injury or fatalities. Geologists assert that the lava of Ol’doinyo Lenka is not as hot as that of other documented volcanoes worldwide. The ascent to the summit of Ol’doinyo Lenkai requires three days.
Following an ascent to Lenkai, the firm recommends that guests allocate time to explore Lake Natron. Lake Natron is the largest lake in East Africa, hosting countless flamingos and several avian species.
Zebras, elephants, and giraffes can be observed during the walking safari from Ngare-Sero, Engaruka to Loliondo, accompanied by armed rangers.
Directions to Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is reachable by road from Moshi or Arusha. Travel to Ngaresero village (Lake Natron), from whence you will proceed to Ol Doinyo Lengai. This entails approximately 8 hours of driving.
Accommodations in a visit to Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania
Accommodation choices for a visit to Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania encompass budget, mid-range, and luxury options. Your accommodation selection will rely on your preferences and financial constraints. Accommodation alternatives for a visit to Ol Doinyo Lengai including Lake Natron Tented Camp, Maasai Giraffes Eco Lodge, Lake Naron Camp, and Ngorongoro Wild Camp, among others. Reach out to us for information regarding bookings and reservations.
When is the best time to visit Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania?
Visiting Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai in Tanzania is possible year-round, with optimal conditions occurring from December to February and June to October, which are comparatively drier than the periods of March to May and November.
Guidance on Tanzania Visa and Work Permit
A tourist visa must be acquired. Numerous tourists opt to acquire their visas prior to arriving in Tanzania; nevertheless, visas can be effortlessly purchased upon arrival at any entrance point in Tanzania by paying USD 100.00 for a Tourist Visa, which will be issued immediately. Visa, work permit, and other entry and exit stipulations, including customs and quarantine restrictions, are subject to frequent alterations. We recommend that you reach out to your local Tanzanian embassy or this source for the most current travel advice regarding Tanzania.
Tanzania Vehicle Rental Services
All Tanzania Safaris assist you in arranging transportation in Tanzania based on your interests, budget, and the condition of the roads in the chosen sites inside the park. We propose Customized 4×4 Land Cruisers, priced from USD 200-250 per car per day with a driver/fixer, or 4×4 Safari Vans starting at USD 200 per van per day with a driver. To estimate fuel costs, we must examine your itinerary to determine the miles and distance to be traveled.
Suggested Itinerery of 3 Days and Two Nights - Mount Oldonyo Lengai Expedition
Day 1: Commence the journey to Mto Wa Mbu, across the Great Rift Valley, proceeding through the Engaruka valley and into a semi-arid region characterized by heat, dust, and extinct volcanoes, with Kitumbaine and Gelai to the right and the Mountain of God, “Oldoinyo Lengai,” consistently ahead.
We arrive at Camp before midday, situated along the banks of the Engaresero River, and in the afternoon, we embark on a journey to the waterfalls concealed within the Western wall of the rift valley.
You will take a little respite at Kamakia camp while awaiting your meal. Subsequently, you will take a snooze before being transported by your driver-guide around midnight to commence the ascent of Oldoinyo Lengai (about 4-hour trek). Upon reaching the summit, you should be able to observe the burning lava.
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 2: Revel in the daybreak and the vistas of the Rift Valley extending into Kenya, followed by a descend and drive to the camp for a shower, a late breakfast, and a period of complete rest. You may engage in a brief evening stroll at your discretion, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at Kamakia camping.
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Following breakfast, you will embark on a guided stroll around Lake Natron. Lake Natron is a significant flamingo breeding place in East Africa, with a visit to a Maasai “Boma” settlement along the route. You will have the opportunity to engage with the Maasai people and gain insights into their culture and daily routines.
Upon completion of the cultural tour, you will return to the campsite for a hot lunch and prepare for the journey back to Arusha or Moshi for supper and overnight accommodation at the specified hotel or lodge. Depending on the route, you may be taken to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return trip home.
Meal plan: Breakfast and Lunch