Lake Natron is a saline lake found in the Arusha region of northern Tanzania, within the Ngorongoro district. It sits at an elevation of about 600 meters above sea level. The lake is mainly fed by the Great Ewaso N’giro River and is less than 3 meters deep, with its width changing depending on water levels. Lake Natron is home to about 75% of the world’s lesser flamingo population.
Because of its high salt content, Lake Natron cannot support most fish species or provide drinking water for animals. However, it still supports millions of lesser flamingoes, some greater flamingoes, other bird species, invertebrates, and alkaline tilapias.
The lake’s water has a very high pH of up to 10.5, making it so caustic that it can burn the skin and eyes of animals not adapted to it. The bedrock around the lake is rich in sodium and made of trachyte lava from the Pleistocene period. The lake’s strong alkaline brine is caused by high levels of carbonates and low levels of calcium and magnesium.
Lake Natron is listed as one of the Ramsar wetlands of international importance. However, threats such as plans to build a hydroelectric plant on the Ewaso N’giro River, livestock herding, flooding, and cultivation around the lake are putting the breeding grounds of flamingoes at risk. During the dry season, when the salinity rises, microorganisms called halophiles survive by producing their own food.
Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano located in the Gregory Rift near Lake Natron. The name comes from the Maasai language and means “Mountain of God.” It rises to an elevation of about 3,188 meters above sea level. The mountain slopes provide fertile pastures for wildebeests.
Records show eruptions as far back as 1917, when ash covered areas up to 48 kilometers away. Another eruption occurred in 1926, lasting several months. In 1940, volcanic ash spread about 100 kilometers, and another major eruption took place in 1966.
Activities at Lake Natron
- Guided Nature Walks: You can take guided walks with experienced local guides around Lake Natron. Some trails lead to ancient hominid footprints that date back between 5,000 and 12,000 years. Other routes bring visitors close to the lake’s unique landscapes.
- Swimming: Visitors can swim in the natural pool formed by underground springs.
- Birding: The area around Lake Natron and Ol Doinyo Lengai has about 250 bird species, making it ideal for birdwatching.
- Hiking: Travelers can hike the foothills of Ol Doinyo Lengai for an adventurous experience.
- Ngare Sero Waterfalls: The beautiful Ngare Sero Waterfalls are another popular attraction near Lake Natron.
Nearby Attractions
- Serengeti National Park: A trip to Lake Natron is not complete without visiting Serengeti National Park. It is home to over 2 million ungulates, 4,000 lions, 1,000 leopards, 550 cheetahs, and about 500 bird species.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Located along Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, this area was declared a multiple land-use zone in 1959 where wildlife lives alongside the traditional Maasai pastoralists.
- Ngorongoro Crater: The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. It formed when a massive volcano collapsed about 2 to 3 million years ago. The crater floor covers about 260 square kilometers and is 610 meters deep. It is listed among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is home to many animals and birds.
Where to Stay
There are no permanent lodges at Lake Natron, but visitors can camp in designated areas near the lake shores or stay at base camps used by hikers climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai. Common camps include Masai Giraffe Campsites, Lake Natron Camp, and Lake Natron Halisi Camp.
Visitors must obtain a permit from the Wildlife Management Association before visiting. The fee is $6 for foreign resident and non-resident children, $12 for adults, $24 for adult camping, and $12 for child camping. Village entry fees are also paid in cash on arrival. All permits are valid for 24 hours.
