8-Day Lemosho Route Kilimanjaro Trek Ultimate Acclimatization & Scenic Solitude Kilimanjaro’s Hidden Gem for Savvy Adventurers Overview: For adventurers who crave Kilimanjaro’s
Mountain of God” in the Maasai language
Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is a unique active volcano located in northern Tanzania near Lake Natron. This remarkable peak is the only volcano in the world that produces natrocarbonatite lava, also known as “cold lava” due to its relatively low temperature of 510–600°C. Unlike typical molten lava, this rare fluid has a dark-brown or black color and is highly liquid, almost like water.
Despite its frequent eruptions—approximately 15 times in the past century, with the last major eruption occurring in 2013—Ol Doinyo Lengai remains a fascinating trekking destination. Due to its remote location and relatively small size, its eruptions have never posed a significant threat to nearby Maasai villages.
Surrounded by stunning landscapes and home to thousands of flamingos at Lake Natron, this trek offers an exhilarating challenge for adventure seekers looking to experience one of Africa’s most extraordinary volcanic summits.
Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Arusha as your driver picks you up from your hotel. The scenic drive to Lake Natron takes several hours, passing through remote Maasai lands, acacia-dotted plains, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Upon arrival at the Lodge at Lake Natron, you’ll check in and enjoy lunch before embarking on an afternoon walking tour to Ngare Sero Waterfall. This beautiful trek leads you through a lush gorge where you’ll navigate streams, so wearing sandals or water-resistant footwear is recommended.
Before returning to the lodge for dinner and rest, you’ll take a short drive to the shores of Lake Natron, a mesmerizing alkaline lake famous for its pink flamingos and surreal scenery. This is a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the lake’s reflective waters and dramatic volcanic backdrop.
The adventure begins in the early hours of the morning at 1:00 AM, as your driver takes you to the foot of Ol Doinyo Lengai to start your challenging ascent under the cover of darkness. The steep slopes of the volcano demand caution, so it is essential to follow your guide carefully, maintaining a steady pace.
The trek takes 7 to 12 hours, depending on your fitness level and acclimatization. As you ascend, you’ll make brief stops every 100 meters to adjust to the increasing altitude. A break for snacks during hiking will help you regain energy for the final push to the summit.
Reaching the crater rim at 2,960 meters, you will be rewarded with breathtaking sunrise views over the Great Rift Valley, Lake Natron, and even distant Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day. From here, you can witness the surreal sight of natrocarbonatite lava bubbling inside the crater, an experience unique to this one-of-a-kind volcano.
The descent is significantly faster but still requires caution, as loose volcanic gravel can make footing tricky. Many injuries occur on the way down, so it is advised to take your time. As the sun rises, switch from your fleece to a sun hat to protect yourself from the intense heat.
At the end – Driver will take you back to your lodge for your well-prepared lunches before driving back to Arusha.
The best time to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai is during the dry seasons, which occur from June to October and January to February. These months offer clearer skies, making the trek safer and the views more spectacular.
One of the world’s most unique volcanoes – Witness natrocarbonatite lava, an extremely rare phenomenon.
A true off-the-beaten-path adventure – Unlike Kilimanjaro or Meru, this trek remains uncrowded and remote.
Unparalleled views – Experience stunning landscapes, from the Great Rift Valley to Lake Natron’s flamingos.
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At Charles Tours, we are more than just a Tanzanian tour company—we are a team of passionate professionals and experienced guides who know our country Tanzania inside and out. Based in Arusha in northern Tanzania, we specialize in memorable birdwatching safaris, wildlife adventures, Kilimanjaro trekking, and Zanzibar beach vacations, offering you an authentic and immersive experience in one of Africa’s most breathtaking destinations.
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