Getting there
Drive from Arusha, Karatu or the Serengeti to Engare Sero village near Lake Natron, arriving in the afternoon to rest.
1–2 Days • Very demanding
Ol Doinyo Lengai Trekking
A midnight climb of Tanzania's active Mountain of God.
Climbing the Mountain of God
Ol Doinyo Lengai rises to about 2,960 m above Lake Natron and is the only active carbonatite volcano in the world. The climb starts around midnight so that you reach the crater rim at sunrise and descend before the heat of the day. It is short in distance but very steep, on loose ash and rock, and typically takes five to seven hours up and three to five hours down. Good fitness, a head torch and sturdy boots are essential; the climb is arranged with a licensed local guide.
- Midnight start, sunrise on the crater rim
- About 1,600 m of ascent on steep loose ground
- Licensed local guide and community fees included
- Views over Lake Natron and the Rift Valley
- Usually combined with a Lake Natron stay
- For fit, experienced hikers only
The climb
Depart around midnight, ascend the steep western flank and reach the rim at first light.
The descent
Return the same way in the early morning, then rest and shower at camp before lunch.
What to bring
Head torch, sturdy boots, gloves, wind layer, at least 3 litres of water and energy snacks.
Best time
The drier months from June to October and January to March. Conditions on the volcano can change at short notice.
What's included
Guide, community and rescue fees, transfers from your Natron camp, drinking water and camp accommodation.
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