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Lake Eyasi

A shallow soda lake below the Ngorongoro highlands, with flamingos, waterbirds and dry bush birding.

Lake Eyasi lies in a Rift Valley trough south-west of the Ngorongoro highlands. It is a seasonal soda lake: after the rains it fills and draws flamingos, pelicans and storks, and late in the dry season the water shrinks back to wide salt flats.

Around the shore are palm groves, freshwater springs and thick dry bush, which together make for a varied morning’s birding with very few other vehicles.

Eyasi is also home to the Hadzabe, among the last hunter-gatherers in Africa, and to Datoga pastoralists. Visits are arranged with local guides from the community. It is an easy add-on from Karatu before or after the Ngorongoro Crater.

Getting there

Eyasi is about an hour and a half south-west of Karatu, the last part on dirt roads. From Arusha allow around four hours.

Where to stay

A handful of lodges and tented camps sit along the shore near Mangola, many shaded by palms and fig trees.

Our guides’ tips

  • Come after the rains, when the lake holds water and the flamingos and pelicans are present.
  • Bird the springs and palm groves early. They hold most of the small birds.
  • Cultural visits start before dawn. Go with a community guide and ask before taking photos.
  • Pair Eyasi with a night in Karatu and a day in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Common questions

Is there always water in Lake Eyasi?

No. It is a seasonal lake. Water levels are highest after the rains and lowest late in the dry season.

Are there big animals at Lake Eyasi?

Not many. The draw is the birds, the scenery and the cultural visits rather than big game.

How long should I spend there?

One night is enough for most people. Two lets you combine birding with a cultural morning.

Safaris that visit Lake Eyasi

No set itinerary here yet. Ask us for a custom trip and we’ll plan one around your dates.

Wildlife

Iconic wildlife of Lake Eyasi

The animals, trees and reptiles our guides look for here, with the best season and where to find them. See the full wildlife guide.

Birding

Birds to look for in Lake Eyasi

Specialities, endemics and the birds that make this place different, chosen by our birding guides. Browse all birds.

Activities

Things to do in Lake Eyasi

How a day here is spent, from game drives to walks and boat trips. All safari activities.

Hartlaub’s Turaco in Arusha National Park
Any length, from a morning walk to a 27-day expedition

Birdwatching

More than 1,100 species, dozens of endemics, and guides who find most birds by ear. Our speciality.

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Start planning your safari

Tell us your dates and the birds or animals you most want to see. We’ll reply within 24 hours with a route and a full quote.

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