If you want to experience the best of African safaris, then Tanzania is your ideal destination. This glorious nation has spectacular destinations like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Mount Kilimanjaro. These beautiful attractions offer memorable safari experiences that visitors can imagine. Lake Natron Safari 2025 is one of the popular tours you must try on your African Safari tour.
A safari to Tanzania does not only mean a wildlife safari but also the discovery of new things. Lake Natron, the Deadly Lake, is a fantastic alkaline lake in northern Tanzania. Its uniqueness is its alkalinity, making it hostile to most life forms. It is also this high Alkalinity level that makes Lake Natron called a deadly lake. This lake can be termed deadly because of its high PH (around 10.5 PH level) and acoustic properties.
How big is Lake Natron?
It covers an area of 1254 square kilometers with a depth of less than three meters. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Tanzania. It has an approximate length of 57 kilometers and a width of around 22 kilometers.
Where is Lake Natron Located?
It is in northern Tanzania, specifically in Arusha, at the border between Tanzania and Kenya.
How do you get to Lake Natron?
The best way is to get to Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Conservation Area first. Explore the wonders in these destinations, and then finish your trip with a visit to Lake Natron. At East Africa Safari Guides, we include this fantastic destination in most of our Northern Circuit safaris. The convenient way is to start with a visit to Lake Natron, then to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Another way is to visit this lake on your return to Arusha. After visiting Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you can see this alkaline lake.
From Mto wa Mbu village
If your trip includes the Mto wa Mbu village tour, the best way to reach Lake Natron is to drive from this vibrant village. It will take you 3 hours to arrive at Lake Natron. After exploring Mto wa Mbu village, you will drive to Lake Natron.
From Klein’s Gate
If you are from the Serengeti, we advise you to get to Lake Natron from Klein’s Gate. It is in the northeastern corner of the northern Serengeti. Drive on a paved road from Klein’s Gate to Wasso Town. Then, we drive on gravel from Wasso to Sonja through a 20-kilometer rough road. This route takes about 4.5 hours of driving.
From Arusha
You can drive from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). There are two options: the southern route and the western route. The southern route takes about 5 hours and passes through Mto wa Mbu village. The route of the west passes through Longido and takes 7 hours.
When is the best time to visit Lake Natron?
June and September are perfect. Few or no rainfalls occur during this time. The lake shrinks due to water loss, so the water level is low. This makes it deep red due to the high concentration of haloarchaea. However, bird watching is superb in March and September, as over 2.5 million flamingos breed.
Exploring Lake Natron by flight
Flying over Lake Natron is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you may have on your safari. A helicopter tour is a beautiful way to explore the mesmerizing beauty of this lake since it offers more than just game drives. You will fly low over this soda lake and enjoy the views of the colors, which change from red to pink.
In the early morning, a helicopter hovers through the Great Rift Valley toward Lake Natron and stops for lunch. You will then fly over to Ol Doinyo Lengai to see the black lava of this active volcano. The flight can continue to Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Eyasi.
Why is Lake Natron red?
It appears red from atop. Haloarchaea and Lake Natron algae thrive in highly alkaline environments. They cause the red color in this lake. Their red pigmentation causes this lake to appear red or pink. Professional photographers enjoy the views of this beautiful lake from the top.
Cultural experience with the Maasai
The Maasai reside in the Great Rift Valley, a few kilometers west of the escarpment. During your visit to the Lake Natron area, you will have a cultural tour of the Maasai village, which is beautiful. Meet with the Maasai warriors herding their cattle in the grassy plains. You can also participate in spear-throwing competitions with the Maasai men.
The Maasai are also very creative. Their hand-made products, such as sandals, beads, bangles, and many more, are beautiful. You can also join the Maasai in their traditional dance, a unique jumping style in adorned Maasai shukas.
Is Lake Natron good for honeymoon safaris?
Yes, it is perfect for a couple’s honeymoon safaris. A couple can form a bond by reconnecting with the natural wonders of this lake. Imagine walking close to the blue shores of this soda lake or flying over it and seeing its eye-catching red color. Couples can enjoy a sundowner at an escarpment.
At East Africa Safari Guides, we organize exclusive honeymoon safaris through various Northern Circuit safari destinations, including Lake Natron. Discover the alkaline waters of this beautiful lake that can calcify animals that die in it.
Can you swim in Lake Natron?
We don’t recommend swimming in this lake. Its high degree of alkalinity can irritate your skin and cause fatal harm to sensitive parts like the eyes.
Can Lake Natron turn you into stone?
Lake Natron is the lake that turns animals into stone. This is due to its high concentration of sodium bicarbonate, which calcifies animals that die in this alkaline lake. However, minimal contact with alkaline water cannot turn you into stone. The environment is hostile to most forms of life. However, flamingos and some types of tilapia are examples of Lake Natron animals.
Where to stay in Lake Natron?
For a rewarding safari experience, we advise you to spend at least three nights at Lake Natron. There are many options for lodging at this alkaline lake, from eco-friendly campsites to exclusive lodges and camps.
Lake Natron Campsites are a perfect escape for those who want to reconnect with nature. You will share some facilities in these campsites, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and communal areas. Lake Natron Campsite is an example of a campsite in Lake Natron.
Apart from campsites, Lake Natron has several comfortable lodges and camps. These lodges combine a luxurious life with stunning views of nature.
They include Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge, Africa Safari Lake Natron, and Moivaro Lake Natron Tented Camp. Others include the Lake Natron Maasai Guest House, Lengai Camp, Legendary Tandala Camp, and Ngare Sero Lake Natron Camp.
Are you ready to discover the wonders of Lake Natron?
East Africa Safari Guides is ready to take you to unreachable places in Tanzania. You can enjoy many travel options that you want to include in your safari program. We are a passionate tour operator interested in making your safari to Tanzania memorable.
Lake Natron Safari 2025 prices per person
The cost of a Lake Natron safari in Tanzania for 2025 varies depending on the type of safari chosen. Budget tours start at $1,900 per person for a 9-day trip, while mid-range tours range from $2,200 to $3,500 per person. Luxury tours begin at $4,000 per person.
For instance, a 5-day Lake Natron Maasai Culture & Safari Tours in May 2025 is priced at $2,450 for a mid-range level. A 5-day Lake Natron Safari trip with a Land Cruiser in July 2025 will cost between $1,900 and $2,885 per adult, depending on the lodge chosen. Additionally, a 7-day mid-range safari in August or November 2025 is priced between $2,570 and $4,500 per person, depending on the number of individuals on the trip.
Activities in Lake Natron Safari 2025
Hiking: Experienced adventurers seeking a challenge may consider climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide.
Translated as ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language, this steep climb requires prior mountaineering experience.
The ascent is typically undertaken at night to escape the intense daytime heat. Trekking Ol Doinyo Lengai offers the unique opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit.
Walking Safari:
4 – Day From Ngorongoro Crater to Lake Natron 2025
Embark on a four-day trekking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands. The journey begins with a night at Empakai Crater, followed by a guided hike to the crater’s slopes the next day. Rest for the night at a picturesque location on the edge of the Gregorian Rift before descending into the Rift Valley on day three. Reach Lake Natron Camp, where you can participate in activities like observing flamingos and exploring Ngare Sero Gorge.
Day 1: Explore Empakai Crater
Day 2: Rest at Acacia Camp
Day 3-4: Enjoy Lake Natron Camp
Key Highlights:
Witness the Ngorongoro volcanoes and Empakai Crater
Marvel at breathtaking views along the trek
Engage with Maasai warriors and learn about local tribes
Experience the unique habitat of Lake Natron, home to flamingos
The option to climb Ol ‘Doinyo Lengai is available for those seeking more adventure. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of this unforgettable trekking experience.
Waterfalls and springs in Lake Natron 2025
At Engare Sero Gorge, you can explore various waterfalls and springs while enjoying the tropical palm trees and volcanic rocks. When you stay at Lake Natron Camp, you can take a scenic walk to the gorge and choose between a half-day or full-day tour.
Whether you opt for the shorter or longer tour, you’ll have ample time to appreciate the beauty of this oasis and take a refreshing swim in the calm waters of the waterfalls. Additionally, you’ll receive a picnic basket during your 4–6-hour tour, making it the perfect way to spend a day.
