2 Days Mount Oldoinyo Lengai Trekking
Itinerary Summary
The Ol Doinyo Lengai climb is a thrilling 2-day adventure to the summit of Tanzania’s only active volcano and a sacred mountain to the Maasai. The journey begins with a scenic drive to the Lake Natron area, where you explore the dramatic landscapes and rest before the climb. The ascent starts at midnight to avoid the intense daytime heat, with a challenging 5–7 hour trek up steep, volcanic slopes. Reaching the summit at sunrise rewards climbers with breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Natron, and surrounding peaks. After descending in the morning, you return to your lodge or campsite for rest before heading back to Arusha. This trek offers a rare mix of cultural significance, geological wonder, and raw adventure.
Full Itinerary Overview
Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,962m), located in the Great Rift Valley near Lake Natron, is a strikingly unique and challenging climb. Known for its spiritual significance and otherworldly landscapes, the volcano offers one of Tanzania’s most dramatic summit experiences. This climb is typically done overnight to avoid the extreme heat and to reach the summit at sunrise.
DAY 1 : Arusha / Mto wa Mbu – Lake Natron Area
Depart from Arusha or Mto wa Mbu in the morning and drive through the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley. The journey passes Maasai villages and offers panoramic views of mountains, escarpments, and open plains. Arrive at your campsite or lodge near Lake Natron in the afternoon. After settling in, take a short guided walk to explore the lake’s edge and nearby waterfalls. Enjoy an early dinner and rest before the night climb.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Campsite or Lodge near Lake Natron
DAY 2 : Midnight Climb – Summit Ol Doinyo Lengai – Return to Arusha
The ascent begins around midnight under the moonlight, guided by experienced local guides. The climb is steep and physically demanding, taking 5–7 hours to reach the summit. At the top, you’ll witness a surreal volcanic landscape and a spectacular sunrise over the Rift Valley and Lake Natron. After some time at the summit, begin the descent, which takes 3–4 hours. Upon reaching the base, return to your accommodation for rest, breakfast, or a shower (if available), then drive back to Arusha, arriving by late afternoon or evening.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Experience one of Tanzania’s most thrilling adventures with an overnight climb to the summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano on Earth and a sacred mountain to the Maasai. Rising dramatically from the Rift Valley floor, this rugged peak offers unmatched views at sunrise over Lake Natron, Mount Kilimanjaro, and endless volcanic plains. Ideal for adventurous trekkers, this is your chance to conquer the “Mountain of God” and witness otherworldly landscapes unlike anywhere else in Africa.
INCLUDED
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide or other language as specified during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari
NOT INCLUDED
- Internal or International flights
- Transfers to and from the airport
- Balloon excursion (US$600 pp)
- Entry visa to Tanzania.
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
- Item of personal Nature
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