DestinationLake Natron
A volcanic lake of red waters, flamingos, and salt flats beneath the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano.
Lake Natron in Tanzania is one of East Africa’s most extraordinary and unusual landscapes. Set on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, beneath the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, this shallow volcanic lake is known for its striking colours and unique ecology. For those asking why is Lake Natron red, the answer lies in the high alkalinity and presence of salt-loving algae that thrive in its alkaline water with a pH of up to 10.5. These algae not only create vivid red and orange hues across the salt flats, but also sustain huge flocks of Lake Natron flamingos, which use the lake as their primary breeding ground. The lake has a reputation for its eerie side, too. Extreme salinity can preserve carcasses, leading to the discovery of calcified animals, also known as mummified animals, along the shore of Lake Natron. While this fuels myths about why Lake Natron is so deadly, the reality is that the lake supports a rich diversity of life, from flamingos to other Lake Natron birds adapted to its conditions. Travellers on a Lake Natron safari can enjoy guided walks to the water’s edge, cultural encounters with Maasai communities, and hikes to waterfalls. It’s best visited as part of an off-the-beaten-path Tanzania safari, linking Ngorongoro and Lake Natron or combining with the Serengeti and Lake Natron.
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Best time to go to Lake Natron
The best time to visit Lake Natron is during the dry season from June to October, when conditions are easier for walking safaris, flamingo breeding peaks, and access roads are more reliable. The green season from November to May brings dramatic landscapes, full waterfalls, and excellent birdwatching, though rains can make travel more challenging.
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Where to stay in Lake Natron
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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.
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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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