rekking the Mountain of God

Oldoinyo Lengai Climb

Destination

Overview

Ol Doinyo Lengai is a unique and sacred stratovolcano located in the heart of Maasai country, just south of Lake Natron. It holds the distinction of being the only active volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava—a "cool," highly fluid black lava that turns bone-white upon contact with moisture. This creates a surreal, lunar-like landscape that is as spiritually significant to the Maasai as it is geologically fascinating to adventurers.
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Destination

Key Highlights

Best Time to Visit

Jun – Sept and Jan

Location

Northern Tanzania

Major Attraction

Active natrocarbonatite volcano

Activity

Overnight Volcano Summiting

Typical Duration

10 – 12 Hours
Destination

About the Destination

Rising to 2,962m, "Ol Doinyo Lengai" means "Mountain of God" in the Maasai language, believed to be the home of their deity, Enkai. The climb is notoriously steep and physically demanding, characterized by loose volcanic scree and a lack of shade, which is why most treks begin at midnight. Reaching the northern active crater allows hikers to witness small eruptions called "hornitos" and gaze across the shimmering salt flats of Lake Natron.
Things to Do

At Serengeti National Parks

Midnight Summit Hike

Ascend the steep volcanic cone under the stars to reach the rim just as the sun rises over the Rift Valley.

Crater Exploration

Carefully walk across parts of the crater floor to see bubbling lava and unique ash formations.

Lake Natron Flamingo Walk

Visit the nearby soda lake to see the world's largest breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos.

Engare Sero Waterfall Hike

Trek into a deep gorge to swim in natural pools fed by spring water—the perfect post-climb recovery.

Maasai Cultural Interaction

Join a guided walk with local Maasai warriors to learn about the mountain’s spiritual role and traditional medicine.

Hominid Footprint Tour

Visit the nearby site containing exceptionally well-preserved ancient human footprints (5,000–19,000 years old).
Accommodation Options

Comfort for Every Journey

Lake Natron Camp

An eco-chic camp with "Bedu" shade nets, offering a natural swimming pool and unparalleled views of the volcano.
From $350/ Night

Africa Safari Lake Natron

Features a mix of luxury glamping tents and a swimming pool, located conveniently for midnight departures.
From $150/ Night

Lengai Safari Lodge / Worldview Campsite

Practical and popular bases in Engare Sero village providing basic rooms or campsites for trekkers.
From $40/ Night
Serengeti

Itineraries

Your gateway to tropical paradise and unforgettable beach adventures in Zanzibar.
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