Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ol Doinyo Lengai: The Sacred Volcano of Tanzania

Ol Doinyo Lengai, meaning “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is an active volcano located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. Towering at an elevation of 9,442 feet (2,878 meters), it sits at the southern end of Lake Natron and approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) northwest of Arusha. Part of the East African Rift System, it is one of the most geologically fascinating volcanoes in the world.
This volcano is especially unique due to its rare carbonatite lava, which is rich in sodium and potassium—so alkaline that it resembles washing soda. Eruptions have been documented between 1880 and 1967, with most recent activity emerging from its northern crater. Multiple active centers and subsidiary cones radiate from the summit, descending the slopes in a striking display of volcanic architecture.
The lower slopes of Ol Doinyo Lengai are fertile and support agricultural activity, including vineyards and citrus groves. As the elevation increases, oak, birch, and beech trees blanket the steep mid-slopes. Above 6,500 feet, the landscape becomes barren and rugged, with sparse plant life clinging to ash, sand, and jagged lava fragments.
Nearby, the area around Lake Natron adds to the surreal atmosphere with its stark, almost lunar landscape. This shallow soda lake, no more than three meters deep, lies at the lowest point of the East African Rift and is known for its high alkalinity, caused by extreme evaporation and mineral concentration. Temperatures in the lake’s muddy edges can exceed 40°C, creating a hostile environment that deters most predators.
Despite these harsh conditions, Lake Natron serves as the only known breeding ground for the endangered Lesser Flamingo. In fact, it is believed to support up to 75% of the world’s population of this species, making it one of the most important flamingo habitats on Earth.
Visitors to Ol Doinyo Lengai can explore a variety of natural attractions in the area, including the Maasai Bomas (traditional homesteads), the geothermal geysers of Mount Gelai, and scenic waterfalls and streams cascading from the nearby escarpment. Walks around the lake and through this remote and otherworldly terrain offer a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike.

MT. Oldoinyo Lengai Itineraries

MT. Oldoinyo Lengai 2 Days 1 Night

Testimonials

Very warm and welcoming travel agency, everything arranged very perfectly!. Whether it's mountain climbing arrangements or hunting tours, ..