3 Days Lake Natron Camping Adventure

Duration

3 Days

Physical Rating

Medium

Minimum Age

12 Years +

Starting From

$1,099.00

*Starting prices are listed per person in USD.

Destination Highlights

Lake Natron
Ol Doinyo Lengai

Trip Overview

This immersive 3-day camping adventure begins at 7:00 AM with pickup from your hotel in Arusha or anywhere within the Arusha region. The journey heads north through dramatic volcanic landscapes, crossing semi-desert terrain and ancient lava fields formed by eruptions from Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai — the world’s only active carbonatite volcano.

Compact yet rewarding, this itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking remote landscapes, active exploration, and authentic cultural encounters. It also makes a unique addition to an existing safari or travel plan, highlighted by a visit to Lake Natron, a striking flamingo sanctuary and vital wildlife habitat.

Highlights

  • Great view of Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, the “Mountain of God”
  • Spectacular sunrise views over the Rift Valley
  • Visit Lake Natron, a flamingo breeding site
  • Experience authentic Maasai and Datoga cultures
  • Swim in a natural waterfall pool
  • Explore volcanic landscapes and lava flows
  • Private camping under the stars in remote wilderness

Full Itinerary

Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season; ideal for walking and wildlife)

Day 1: Driving to Lake Natron / Waterfall Adventure

Depart from Arusha at 7:00 AM, travel north through varied landscapes, with occasional stops for photos and refreshments. Arrive at Kidemi Campsite for lunch and check-in. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided hike with a local Maasai guide to a nearby waterfall, swim in a natural pool, slide down smooth rocks, and enjoy natural skin exfoliation using black volcanic sand. The lush canyon features ferns and dripping springs, a surprising oasis in the semi-desert. Return to camp at 6:00 PM for dinner and overnight under the stars

Accommodation: Kidemi Campsite

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 2: Cultural Encounters & Lake Natron Exploration

Start your day early with sunrise views and freshly brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a cultural village tour to interact with the Maasai and Datoga communities. Learn about traditional life, customs, and the connection these tribes have to the land. Return to camp for lunch prepared by your safari chef. In the late afternoon, visit the Lake Natron flamingo sanctuary, walk along the lake’s edge, take stunning photos with Mount Lengai in the background, and collect naturally shed flamingo feathers. Return to camp for dinner and another peaceful night in nature.

Accommodation: Kidemi Campsite

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 3: Return to Arusha / Drop off to your destination

After breakfast, break down camp and begin your return drive to Arusha. Take a different scenic route back, passing through remote villages and semi-desert plains to the east. Lunch en route or at a picnic stop

Arrival in Arusha in the late afternoon, marking the end of the tour

Accommodation: Arusha Lodges / To be arranges in advance

Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch

Planning

To make your trip planning easier, we’ve prepared a simple list of what’s included in your tour package and what’s not. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect, and you can make any additional arrangements ahead of time for a smooth and enjoyable journey!

Includes

  • All Park and village entry fees
  • Accommodation in private tents
  • Transportation in a 4×4 Landcruiser
  • All meals as specified
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Professional safari driver-guide
  • Local Maasai guide for hikes
  • Cook and camping equipment

Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities
  • Tropical doctor
  • Tipping
  • Bank charges money transfer
  • All things of personal nature
  • Any increase of government taxes/ park fees