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.

Lake Natron

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.

Tripadvisor Reviews

  • Kelley K Avatar
    Kelley K
    5 star rating
    22 October 2026
    We had an outstanding experience with Long Way Expeditions from start to finish. Ann made the booking process incredibly easy, communication was excellent, and every detail was well organized. She... Read more
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    Patty G Avatar
    Patty G
    5 star rating
    22 October 2026
    Wow, I don't know where to begin. Looking for a local tour company was overwhelming when I started researching this safari. I stumbled across Longway Expeditions during my search. After... Read more
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    Naziya L Avatar
    Naziya L
    5 star rating
    2 September 2026
    My brother and I had the most incredible 3-day safari experience with Longway expeditions. The trip was perfectly bespoke to suit our needs and budget, and Anne was incredibly hands-on... Read more
  • Gabriela G Avatar
    Gabriela G
    5 star rating
    30 August 2026
    I had planned this trip with my 3 sons and their partners for a long time. We cried when it ended and had to say goodbye to Abu and Anne.... Read more
    RebeccaA126 Avatar
    RebeccaA126
    5 star rating
    12 August 2026
    Thank you so much to the fabulous team at Long Way Expeditions, in particular the marvellous Anne and Abu, who ensured that our family of 4 (including 2 teenagers) enjoyed... Read more
    Nischita K Avatar
    Nischita K
    5 star rating
    11 July 2026
    Fantastic first trip to Tanzania with Longway Expeditions! I was quite nervous about going on safari as a solo female traveller, but Anne from Longway was incredibly patient and helpful... Read more
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  • Mclgn Avatar
    Mclgn
    5 star rating
    23 June 2026
    We chose Long Way Expeditions for our safari based on a friend’s recommendation, and I truly believe it was the best decision we could have made to discover Tanzania!
    <br... Read more
    Sabine G Avatar
    Sabine G
    5 star rating
    4 March 2026
    Anne was the best tour organiser She was very patient and worked with me to figure out the best safari format on a very short notice.
    The experience... Read more
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    Lauren L Avatar
    Lauren L
    5 star rating
    21 February 2026
    I came across Long Way Expeditions from responsibletravel.com when looking for a travel provider that was local and eco-conscious. We promptly heard from Ann, one of the owners, and after... Read more
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  • Aziza63 Avatar
    Aziza63
    5 star rating
    12 November 2025
    This was my best safari by far,and I have done many. I found Longway expeditions through Responsible travel. From my very first contact with Ann, I found her... Read more
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