LAKE NATRON
Lake Natron is a mineral-rich soda lake in northern Tanzania, on the Kenyan border. This a breeding ground for hundreds of thousands of lesser flamingos, despite the highly alkaline state of the striking red waters. It rests below Ol Doinyo Lengai, a soaring active volcano in the Rift Valley. Trails lead from the lake to the Engero Sero waterfalls, which flow over craggy rocks into a natural pool.
The lake shore is dotted with a pink hue, created by the thousands of flamingos that migrate there. The pink colour is the result of billions of halophilic bacteria. Their presence makes the lake ideal for flamingos and it is these bacteria that give the birds their magnificent pink colour. They are one of very few creatures who can thrive in these conditions; the caustic environment actually acts as a barrier against predators.
One of the most original landscapes in East Africa, this area is breathtakingly beautiful! The fringe of the valley is composed of emerald green hills and mountains that create scenery unrivaled anywhere else in the world. Spectacular flocks of flamingos are one of the major attractions for visiting the lake. It is here where the lesser flamingos nest successfully. Over three quarter of the world’s population of this bird, breeds here because food is plentiful, nesting sites abound and because the lake exists in almost total isolation, free from outside disturbance.
The Ngare Sero River provides a surprising contrast to the heat and dust, as it flows clean and cool out of the Rift Valley wall into Lake Natron. Alongside this naturally pristine spectacle is Ol Doinyo Lengai, the world’s only active Sodium Carbonate Volcano! At 3450m, this impressive peak is well-regarded by the Maasai as the sacred “Mountain of God”. A nearly perfect cone, it still erupts occasionally. The area is also home to the nomadic Maasai who maintain their traditional lifestyle.
This area is definitely for those who are looking for an adventurous safari. Activities here include walks around the lake and to the streams and waterfalls along the nearby escarpment, bird watching, cycling and trekking up Ol Doinyo Lengai. A challenging hike to the top of the “Mountain of God” offers an opportunity to view molten lava and from there you have great views of the surrounding landscapes.
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9 November 2024
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