Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai

Discover Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai: Tanzania’s “Mountain of God”

Located in the Gregory Rift south of Lake Natron in the Arusha Region of Tanzania, Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. This active volcano stands out for its unique geological features, particularly its natro-carbonatite lava. Unlike other volcanoes that erupt fiery red lava, Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only known active volcano in the world to erupt black lava, a result of its low eruption temperature and distinct mineral composition. This rare lava, which is thinner and more fluid than traditional lava, makes the mountain an interesting destination for geological studies and documentary filmmakers.

Visitors to Ol Doinyo Lengai will also have the opportunity to learn about the Maasai people and their deep cultural and spiritual connection to the mountain, adding a rich cultural experience to the adventure.

Tanzania Big Five Safaris

Explore the wildlife wonders of Tanzania with one of our tailor-made Big Five safaris:

• 3 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari
• 3 Day Serengeti National Park Safari
• 4-Day Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
• 5-Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure
• 6 Day Northern Circuit Safari
• 8-Day Tanzania’s Great Migration Safari
• 10-Day Ultimate Tanzania Safari Adventure

Each safari offers a chance to experience the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Tanzania, from the famous Serengeti to the iconic Ngorongoro Crater.

How to Reach Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai

Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is accessible by road from Moshi or Arusha. To get there, travelers must drive to Ngaresero Village near Lake Natron, which is approximately an 8-hour drive. While the journey is long, the experience of reaching this unique volcanic site makes it all worthwhile.

Where to Stay Near Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai

Accommodations near Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai cater to a range of budgets, from luxury to budget-friendly options. Some popular places to stay include:

• Lake Natron Tented Camp

• Maasai Giraffes Eco Lodge

• Lake Natron Camp

• Ngorongoro Wild Camp

These lodges provide comfort and a great base for exploring the area. You can choose a stay based on your preferences and budget. For more information and booking, contact us.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai?

The best time to visit Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai is during the dry season, which runs from December to February and June to October. During these months, the weather is drier, making it easier to navigate the trails. The wet season, from March to May and November, brings more rainfall, which can make the trails slippery and challenging for trekking.

Tanzania Visa and Work Permit Information

To visit Tanzania, you’ll need to obtain a tourist visa, which is available upon arrival at any entry point in the country for a fee of USD 100. For travelers from certain countries, proof of yellow fever vaccination. While many tourists opt to obtain their visa before traveling, it can also be easily acquired upon arrival.

Since visa and entry requirements can change, we recommend checking with your local Tanzanian embassy for the most current information.

Tanzania Vehicle Hire Services

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we provide reliable transportation options tailored to your needs. Depending on the location and terrain, we recommend Customized 4×4 Land Cruisers or Safari Vans for the best experience. Prices start from USD 200-250 per vehicle per day (including a driver/fixer).

Let us help you estimate the fuel costs based on your itinerary and the distances you plan to travel.

Why Book Your Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

With years of experience organizing unforgettable safaris in Tanzania, Trek Africa Expeditions is the perfect partner for your adventure to Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and known for our eco-friendly and memorable safari experiences.

Our safaris help support wildlife conservation, biodiversity preservation, and community empowerment. In addition to mountain trekking and exploring Ol Doinyo Lengai, we offer a wide range of other activities, including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee safaris, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural experiences across Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.

Contact us today for more details about visiting Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai and to book your Tanzania adventure.