Ol Doinyo Lengai - The Sacred Mountain of Fire

Ol Doinyo Lengai - The Sacred Mountain of Fire

5
Days
4
Nights
5
Days
4
Nights

Trek Overview

Mount Ol Donyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is a unique active volcano located in northern Tanzania within the Great Rift Valley. Rising to 2,962 meters (9,718 feet), it is the only volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, a rare, cool, and fast-flowing type of lava. The landscape surrounding the mountain is strikingly dramatic, with views over Lake Natron, deep valleys, and rugged terrain. This lesser-known destination offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure for hikers and geology enthusiasts alike.

Climbing this sacred peak is a thrilling challenge, typically starting at night to reach the summit by sunrise for breathtaking views over the Rift Valley and surrounding plains. Beyond the adventure, the mountain holds deep spiritual significance to the local Maasai people, offering travelers a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re seeking a unique volcanic trek or a deeper connection with Tanzania’s natural and cultural heritage, this remarkable destination promises an unforgettable journey.

From
Per Adult
From
Per Child

Start Planing Your Trekking

Trip Information

Arrival on

Arusha

Departure from

Arusha

Transportation

All ground transfers

Maximum Altitude

4566 Meaters

Meals

All listed meals

Accomodation

Camping

Guiding Language

English, French & Spanish

Best Season

June to October & December to March

Group Size

Minimum 2 people

Tour type

Private Camping & Midrange

Maximum Age

80

Minimum Age

13

Trek Itinerary

Day 01 - Pick up from the airport

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a friendly staff member from Safari horizons will be there to welcome you. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha, where you can relax after your journey. In the evening, you will have a safari briefing, where our team will go over your itinerary, answer any questions, and ensure you are well-prepared for your adventure. Get a good night’s rest—your unforgettable safari begins tomorrow

Accommodation

✓ Name: Tulia lodge

✓ Type: Hotel

✓ Level: Mid-range

Day 02 - Arusha – Lake Natron Area
  • Pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi after breakfast
  • Scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley, with views of volcanic landscapes and Maasai villages
  • Stop at viewpoints overlooking Lake Natron and the Lengai volcano
  • Arrive at your lodge/camp near Lake Natron by late afternoon
  • Optional visit to Ngare Sero Waterfalls (depending on time)
  • Dinner and overnight near Lake Natron

Accommodation: Tented lodge/camp with views of Lengai

Meals included: Lunch & Dinner

Day 03 - Ol Doinyo Lengai Midnight Trek – Lake Natron Exploration
  • Midnight wake-up call for your summit attempt (around 12:00 AM)
  • Begin the ascent under the stars with headlamps and experienced local guides
  • Reach the summit around sunrise (2,962 meters / 9,718 ft)
  • Witness dramatic views of lava formations, Lake Natron, and the Great Rift Valley
  • Begin descent by mid-morning, return to camp for a hot brunch and rest
  • Afternoon visit to Lake Natron – famous for flamingos and other wildlife
  • Dinner and overnight at the camp

Accommodation: Tented lodge/camp

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 04 - Lake Natron – Arusha

Relaxed morning with breakfast

Optional cultural visit to a local Maasai village

Depart Lake Natron and drive back to Arusha or Moshi

Drop-off at your hotel or airport in the afternoon/evening

✓ Name: Tulia lodge

✓ Type: Hotel

✓ Level: Mid-range

Day 5 - Departure

Rest in the hotel and transfer to the airport.

Please note: Hotel check-out is at 10:00 AM. In case you need a late check-out because of an evening flight, there is the option to extend your hotel stay for an extra fee.

Included & Excluded

Inclusions – What’s Included
Park entry, camping & rescue fees
18% VAT (tax) on tour fees & services
Three‑season mountain tents
Transportation to/from the mountain gate
Professional mountain guides, cooks, and porters
Three meals daily on the mountainc
Filtered (drinking) water throughout the trek
Pre‑ and post‑trek hotel accommodation
Two‑way private airport transfers
Hotel accommodation before/after climb
Fully‑licensed English‑speaking guide(s)
Porter service (personal luggage allowance ~15 kg)
Specialist tent crew to set up campsites
First‑aid kit & pulse oximeters
High‑quality dining & sleeping tents with foam mattresses
Trip completion certificate & farewell dinner
Exclusions – What’s Not Included
International & domestic flights to/from Tanzania
Visa fees (Tanzanian tourist visa)
Travel insurance (high‑altitude trekking cover)
Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, cooks (≈ $150–300 pp)
Personal trekking gear (e.g. hiking boots, poles)
Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, alcohol, camera batteries)
Vaccinations & malaria prophylaxis

Start Planing Your Trekking

Frequently Asked Questions
How many days does the trek take?

Standard itineraries span 7–9 days on the mountain, with the preferred 8‑day schedule offering optimal acclimatization

It’s rated moderately difficult: you’ll cover ~12 km/day at high altitude and tackle steep scree on summit night. Prior multi‑day hiking and gym prep are strongly advised

The eight‑day Lemosho Route boasts ~85–90% success, thanks to its gradual ascent profile

January–March and June–October are the driest, most stable months; peak season (July–September) sees larger crowds but very reliable weather

 

Key items: three–season sleeping bag, waterproof trekking boots, layered clothing (base‑mid‑insulation‑shell), warm hat/gloves, trekking poles, headlamp and sun protection

Each group is backed by English‑speaking guides, cooks and porters (1 guide:4 clients; 1 porter per 15 kg of your luggage) who set up camps, prepare meals and carry gear

Thank you for booking your trip with us. We will connect with you within a short while...