DestinationLake Eyasi
A vast and beautiful soda lake boasting abundant birdlife and home to the Hadzabe people
Lake Eyasi lies on the edge of the Rift Valley lakes in northern Tanzania, offering a very different experience to the savannah landscapes of the Serengeti or Ngorongoro. This seasonal soda lake is shallow and alkaline, and when conditions are right, it attracts flocks of flamingoes, pelicans, and other waterbirds that create striking colours against the barren shoreline. But Eyasi is best known for its people. A visit here often includes cultural tours at Lake Eyasi, where travellers meet the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer groups in East Africa. Spending time with them provides insight into traditional Bushmen hunting skills, fire-making, and daily life. Nearby, the Datoga people (skilled pastoralists and blacksmiths) share their own customs and crafts. Together, these encounters make Eyasi one of the most authentic cultural stops on a Tanzania safari. While not a big-game destination, a safari to Lake Eyasi is a journey into human history and cultural diversity. Its proximity to the Ngorongoro highlands makes it a popular addition for travellers seeking balance in their itinerary: wildlife in the crater one day, cultural immersion at Eyasi the next.
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Best time to go to Lake Eyasi
The best time to visit Lake Eyasi is in the dry season (June–October), when the lake shrinks, making travel easier and cultural visits more comfortable. Wildlife is limited, but the focus here is on people and traditions. The green season (November–May) can transform the lake with abundant water and birdlife, including flamingos, although rains may make access more challenging. For travellers planning a cultural safari, Eyasi works well year-round, but dry months are ideal for combining with Ngorongoro or Serengeti in a wider itinerary.
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Where to stay in Lake Eyasi
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Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
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