Nestled in the dramatic landscapes of Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, Ol Doinyo Lengai, meaning “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is one of the most unique and revered mountains in East Africa. Standing at 2,962 meters (9,718 ft), this active stratovolcano is not only the spiritual home of the Maasai god Engai, but it also offers an unforgettable hiking experience unlike any other.
Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only active volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava—a rare, cool, and fast-flowing lava that is dark in daylight but glows faintly at night. This phenomenon, combined with its steep slopes and stunning setting near Lake Natron, makes it a bucket-list climb for adventurous travelers.
For those with limited time or looking for a short adrenaline-packed adventure, day trips (or technically, night hikes) to Ol Doinyo Lengai are a popular choice. The climb begins shortly after midnight, under the stars, to avoid the scorching heat of the day and to arrive at the summit by sunrise.
Start Time: Around 11:00 PM – midnight departure from your lodge or campsite near Lake Natron.
Ascent Duration: 5–7 hours (extremely steep and challenging).
Summit Experience: Catch the sunrise over Lake Natron, the Rift Valley escarpments, and possibly Mount Kilimanjaro on a clear day.
Descent Duration: 3–4 hours, followed by return to the lodge for rest and meals.
Though it’s a single-day (or rather, one-night) effort, this trek is not for the faint-hearted. It involves a vertical climb up loose volcanic ash and hardened lava flows, often without proper footholds or switchbacks. It’s a raw, rugged experience that requires mental grit, physical strength, and good hiking gear.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself deeper into the region, explore the surrounding environment, and acclimatize before the demanding summit climb, then the 3-day hiking package is the perfect choice. This itinerary allows you to balance adventure with cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Day 1: Arusha / Mto wa Mbu to Lake Natron
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through Maasailand, past volcanic terrain, wildlife corridors, and the Great Rift Valley escarpment. On arrival at Lake Natron, settle into your lodge or campsite and enjoy a guided walk to the Ngare Sero Waterfalls, trekking through a cool gorge and splashing through natural pools. In the evening, enjoy sunset views over Lake Natron’s salt flats and flamingo colonies.
Overnight: Lake Natron Camp / Masai Giraffe Eco Lodge
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Midnight Trek to the Summit of Ol Doinyo Lengai
Around 11:00 PM, you’ll drive to the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai. The climb begins in the dark, under a starlit sky. It’s a challenging 5–7 hour ascent, demanding both physically and mentally. The trail is steep, mostly vertical, and made of loose gravel, ash, and sharp rocks. There are no switchbacks, and the higher you go, the tougher it becomes.
By sunrise, you’ll reach the summit where surreal landscapes await: steaming craters, lava vents, and expansive views across northern Tanzania. After resting and soaking in the experience, you’ll begin your descent, arriving back at camp around midday for rest and recovery.
Overnight: Lake Natron Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Lake Natron Exploration and Return
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning. Depending on your energy, you can take a short walk around Lake Natron’s salt flats or visit a local Maasai boma to learn about their rich culture and daily life. After lunch, begin the scenic drive back to Arusha or Mto wa Mbu, arriving by evening.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
🏔️ Elevation: 2,962 m (9,718 ft)
🔥 Volcano Type: Active carbonatite stratovolcano
🥾 Hike Duration (Summit): 5–7 hrs up, 3–4 hrs down
⏱️ Best Time to Climb: June–October, December–February
🌅 Climb Style: Midnight start, sunrise summit
⚠️ Difficulty Level: Very strenuous
While the one-day/night hike is doable for fit trekkers, the 3-day itinerary provides a more balanced and immersive experience. It allows for:
