Lake Natron is strategically located along the northern circuit of Tanzania, it is a unique destination in the Ngoro Ngoro district. It is among the great African Lakes along the floor of Rift Valley. The beautiful Lake is surrounded by the Mountain Od Odoinyo Lengai is also referred to as the ‘Mountain of God”by the local Masaai people, the active volcano influences the activity of Lake Natron, and its waters are high with PH, sometimes close to red in colour while other times it clear, Flamingoes are the only birds that have adapted to survive while at the Lake the feed on green algae on the Lake and is the world’s biggest breeding place of lesser and greater Flamingoes, it is said that most mammal species that used on this water can easily be turned into mummies.
The Lake is surrounded by a few vegetation plants like desert roses, Juncusmaritimus, and cyperus which can survive the harsh conditions of the region, the topography of the Rift Valley region is perfect not to miss while considering your Tanzanian safari to the north, there is are springs around the water bodies that act as water points to the few mammal species that call this home, rather for the lake it’s self the water seems to be super poisonous towildlife. Things to do in Lake Natron are as below.
The Ngare Sero waterfall hike is an amazing experience for travellers, it gives rewarding views of the Great Rift Valley region, it features an angelic rock you can hike, and the waterfall is a lovely oasis that visitors can even choose to swim, the gorge may not seem as beautiful however as you deep into it you will realize how beautiful it is you will walk along the banks of river saitotien route look out for desert roses.
Flamingo walks and bird watching, the area is known for its large flocks of the greater and lesser flamingoes, this walk will take you to view the best of Lake creatures, over 250 species of birds have been recorded, the walk is guided by an experienced ranger lasting for 2-4 hours, most of these species can be seen at your convenience even from your lodge verandah.
Hominid footprints at Lake Natron, it is a 30-minute’ walk away, there are footprints within the concession area, these rare footprints of human existence are believed to have been left behind over 5000 -19000 years ago, it is one of the world’s most unique points to track the evolution of mankind the homo sapiens according to researchers.
Visit the Masai people, who are the original settlers of the region, they live in scattered villages, the main village is a few kilometres from the rift valley escarpment, the name of the village EngareSero locally means “Dappled water”. With the breathtaking views from the villages, visitors get engaged in the local cultures, the Masai traditional dance, and their way of life.
In conclusion, trips to Lake Natron can be combined with those to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.