Tanzania
2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania
- Duration
- 2 Days
- Price
- From $672 pp
- Difficulty
- Easy
Overview
The 2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania delivers a distinctive and highly rewarding off the beaten path safari experience, combining dramatic landscapes, rich birdlife, and authentic cultural encounters. Located in the remote northern circuit near the Kenyan border, Lake Natron is renowned as the primary breeding ground for approximately two million lesser flamingos, creating one of the most remarkable birding spectacles in East Africa. The sight of thousands of pink hues reflected against the alkaline waters is both rare and unforgettable. The journey to Lake Natron is equally impressive. The drive takes you through vast Maasai plains, volcanic formations, and the dramatic backdrop of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred Mountain of God. This scenic transfer alone offers exceptional photographic opportunities and a true sense of exploration beyond the traditional safari routes. During this 2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania, you may explore the lake shores, visit nearby waterfalls for a refreshing walk, and engage with local Maasai communities for cultural insight. While this program stands confidently as a unique two day adventure, it also integrates seamlessly as a strategic extension to any northern Tanzania safari, particularly after Serengeti or Ngorongoro experiences, enhancing your itinerary with diversity, exclusivity, and exceptional natural beauty.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1
Arusha – Lake Natron
Your driver-guide will pick you up at your hotel in Arusha in the morning and drive for about 2 hours before leaving the main road. The ride will take you over bumpy paths, through remote Maasai areas with stunning views of the ‘mountain of God’ Ol Doinyo Lengai and if you’re lucky you might even see some zebra’s, giraffe or other wildlife. The drive takes around 4-5 hours in total (you’ll stop for lunch) and once you arrive at the entrance gate of Lake Natron area, a local Maasai guide will escort you to your accommodation. Visiting this whole area without a local guide is not allowed, so any excursion you do will be in his presence. You’ll check-in and have time to freshen up, after which you’ll head to the lake. Accompanied by your local guide, you’ll explore the lake on foot. The ground is quite slippery and muddy, so be prepared to slowly slide over it in order to avoid falling. It’s very shallow for quite some time though, so it’s up to you to see how far you want to go to get close to the flamingos. We’ll stay until sunset, as this is the time when the flamingos are most active, looking for food. After the visit, you’ll return to your accommodation, where dinner will be served.
Accommodation Options
- Midrange Accommodation
- Africa Safari Lake Natron
- Day 2
Waterfall hike – Arusha
The days start early today, as we want to hike to a nearby waterfall before it gets to warm and leave enough time to comfortably get back to Arusha before it gets too dark. The hike takes about 1 to 2 hours and takes you through the beautiful landscapes surrounding Lake Natron. Get ready to get wet, as you’ll have to cross the river a few times! Once you finish your hike, you’ll start heading back to Arusha for another 4 hours. Lunch will be provided on the way. End of the 2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania. Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
What Is Included
Included
- Entrance fees to Lake Natron area
- Transport in a 4×4 vehicle from your lodge in Arusha to the parks and back (other pick-up points possible, please contact us for the right price)
- Visit the lake and waterfall
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Accommodation as mentioned in our offers.
- In case of a camping trip: camping gear like tents, camping mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows, camping chairs, etc.
- Lunch and dinner on the first day of your trip, breakfast, and lunch on the last day
- Drinking water, tea, and coffee.
Not Included
- For your cook, to be divided between each member of your group.
- Travel insurance
- Visa
- Flights or other transport to Arusha. We can r arrange airport pickup for you. Let us know your itinerary and we’ll make it happen!
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Accommodation in Arusha. If you wish, we can, however, assist you in finding a place that corresponds to your needs and budget.
- Breakfast on the first day and dinner on the last
- Personal spending money on souvenirs, laundry, etc.
- All other services that are not mentioned as included.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does the 2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania cost?
- This safari starts from $672 per person. The final price depends on your travel dates, lodge tier, and group size, and every quote is itemized before you commit.
- How long is this safari?
- It runs 2 days. Because every trip is private, we can lengthen, shorten, or add a Zanzibar or gorilla extension to fit your plans.
- Can I customize this itinerary?
- Yes. This itinerary is a starting point. Swap lodges, change the pace, adjust the route, or combine countries, and your planner reshapes it with you before you book.
- When is the best time for this trip?
- June to October, when the tracks in are passable and the heat is a little less punishing. The lesser flamingos that breed on the soda flats are most visible in the drier months.
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Lodges and camps on this itinerary
Ready to make 2 Days Lake Natron Tour in Tanzania yours?
Tell us your dates and what you would love to see. The Enclose Africa Safaris team replies within one business day with your personal itinerary proposal, no obligation.