Oldoinyo Lengai
Oldoinyo Lengai is known among geologists for its natro-carbonatite lava, in fact it is the only known active volcano in the world erupting this kind of lava. While it is thinner and more fluid than the fiery red lava rich in silicate minerals, it is most easily distinguished by its colour: Oldoinyo Lengai’s lava is black!This unusual black colour results from its composition and the comparably low temperature at which it erupts. While basalt based lava erupting from volcanos in Hawaii reach scorching 1100 degrees Celsius, the Mountain of God’s cough appears rather cool at about 510 degrees Celsius.Once it gets in contact with moisture, the lava turns white
Day by Day Itenary
This adventure takes you to the sacred Ol Doinyo Lengai, the only active carbonatite volcano in the world. The trek begins late at night to reach the summit at sunrise an unforgettable experience with panoramic views over Lake Natron, the Maasai lands, and the Great Rift Valley.
Day 1: Arusha – Lake Natron
Pick up from Arusha/Moshi
Drive through Mto wa Mbu and along the Rift Valley escarpment
Arrive in Lake Natron area
Check-in at campsite/lodge
Visit Lake Natron, waterfalls & hominid footprints (optional)
Early dinner & rest before the night trek
22:00–23:00: Transfer to the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Lake Natron Campsite/Lodge
Night Trek – Summit – Return
00:00–01:00: Start climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai
Steep ascent of 5–6 hours
Sunrise at the summit overlooking Natron and the volcano cones
Descend to the base (3–4 hours)
Return to the lodge for breakfast and rest
Drive back to Arusha/Moshi
Meals: Breakfast
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