Welcome to lake Natron
Experience the Untamed Beauty of Mkomazi National Park
Nestled northeast of the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Natron is a striking and otherworldly destination within Africa’s Great Rift Valley. Flanked by rugged volcanic hills and ancient craters, this shallow lake sits at the rift’s lowest point, around 600 meters above sea level. Famous for its highly alkaline waters—the most caustic on Earth—Lake Natron offers a raw, untamed landscape perfect for travelers seeking something far beyond the typical safari circuit.
Adding Lake Natron to your travel plans promises a rare, off-the-grid adventure through some of Tanzania’s most dramatic scenery. The journey from Mto wa Mbu, near Lake Manyara, takes about three hours, unfolding a mesmerizing transformation from fertile greenery to the dry, stark beauty of the Rift Valley floor, with sheer cliffs rising sharply to one side.
As you near the lake via the northern route, the scenery becomes even more surreal. You’ll pass remnants of ancient volcanic activity, culminating in the imposing sight of Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s active “Mountain of God,” which often emits wisps of smoke. Circling around this powerful volcano brings you face-to-face with the forces that continue to shape this rugged land, making a trip to Lake Natron a truly unforgettable and awe-inspiring adventure.
Facts About Lake Natron
The area surrounding Lake Natron is a fascinating ecological wonder, where glimpses of giraffes or zebras punctuate the stark, dramatic landscape. Yet, the true marvel here is the incredible resilience of life in one of Earth’s harshest environments. The lake’s highly saline waters support thriving colonies of cyanobacteria and salt-tolerant microorganisms. These life forms, including red-pigmented blue-green algae and Spirulina, serve as the primary food source for the Lesser Flamingos, which gather at the lake in breathtaking numbers.
Despite its almost caustic, ammonia-like alkalinity, Lake Natron’s extreme conditions create a sanctuary where flamingos can safely breed, protected from predators that cannot withstand the environment.
Exploring Lake Natron: One of the best ways to experience the lake is on foot. Walking safaris across the cracked, mineral-rich flats take visitors right to the lake’s edge, where the sight of flamingos feeding in the shallows is both magical and surreal.
The towering presence of Oldoinyo Lengai, an active volcano with its ashen slopes and smoky summit, dominates the horizon, offering an awe-inspiring backdrop. For the most comfortable experience, plan to walk around the lake either early in the morning or later in the afternoon, avoiding the intense midday sun.
Combining rare wildlife encounters, raw natural beauty, and a true sense of adventure, Lake Natron offers an unforgettable journey for travelers eager to explore Tanzania’s lesser-known treasures.
