Currently seeing:
Traditional Maasai dress against dramatic Lake Natron landscape with Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano in background, Tanzania
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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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!
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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.
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Verified TravellerFrom the first contact to trip preparation and implementation as well as support during the trip, Viatu always acted very professionally. Our wishes and the given financial framework were taken into account. The hotels, the food, the activities - everything was excellent and highly recommended.
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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 TravellerWe loved using the Viatu Trip Builder to design our holidays in South Africa. It was super easy and transparent. Our holidays were great and the few times we needed support, our consultant Benoit was very quick and helpful.
Anita
Verified TravellerI'm very thankful for my first Viatu experience. The 3-week trip across Namibia combined incredible landscapes and nature, mindblowing eco-friendly lodges and utter peace of mind. The organisation and support of the Viatu team were spot-on - this is the way to impress. Thanks a lot!
Christoph
Verified TravellerWe booked our honeymoon with Viatu. From the first minute on, we had good communication going with our travel agent, and she suggested a very nice itinerary right away. After some little adjustments that were easily done, we were ready to go.
Nora
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.
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