Lake Natron Travel Guide
Travel to Lake Natron - Remote Rift Valley Lake
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Lake Natron is one of the many alkaline (soda) lakes of the Great African Rift Valley and is situated in spectacular volcanic scenery at the foot of the active Ol Donyo Lengai volcano. The Lake Natron area is exceptionally beautiful with its desolation and almost lunar landscape beauty. It is one of East Africa’s major breeding areas for Lesser Flamingo.
The lake has a very high concentration of salts getting its pink hue from millions of cyano-bacteria that form the flamingo’s staple diet. The lake is home to literally hundreds of thousands of lesser flamingo’s as well as many other species of birdlife.
Attractions in Lake Natron
There are opportunities of seeing large flocks of flamingos as well as good herds of zebra, wildebeest and gazelle. The drive from Mto wa Mbu up the Rift Valley to Lake Natron is one of the most dramatic and scenic journeys in Tanzania. The Masai settlement of Engare Sero lies close to Lake Natron.
Activities in Lake Natron
Nature walks around the soda lake, to nearby streams, to a waterfall and along the nearby escarpment, escorted by local Masai guides, are a wonderful way to appreciate the sheer beauty of this area. For experienced mountain walkers, a tough (but extremely rewarding) day hike to the volcanic crater cone summit of Mount Lengai can be organised. Birdwatching on the shores of the lake is a popular pastime.
Relaxing
If staying in the area, sipping a gin and tonic or cold beer on the shores of Lake Natron at sunset is one of the best ways to relax and appreciate pure nature in an ancient African land.
Getting Around
Lake Natron lies approximately 250 km from Arusha. Private transport by 4WD is pretty much essential for visiting this remote area, though biking and walking expeditions can be organised by local expert companies on request. The area does have a bush airstrip making access by private air charter an option.
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