Lake Natron
Wild, beautiful, and remote, the region around Lake Natron is part of the famous Great Rift Valley of Africa. Approaching this area is breathtaking as you drive along the Rift Valley with the spectacular changing vistas and the magnificent Ol Doinyo Lengai (“Mountain of God) coming into view. The journey here is worth it for these views alone. Also impressive are the rolling hills where lone Maasai warriors trek, often alongside plains game such as zebra, wildebeest, giraffes, and gazelles. The shallow and highly alkaline lake itself is home to the highest concentrations of lesser and greater flamingos and is the only known breeding ground for them in East Africa. Meanwhile the active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai (“Mountain of God”) is considered sacred to the Maasai, as they believe their god Eng'ai dwells within it. This magical and primordial destination might be the most unique place you ever visit.
Best time to go: The months of June to October, which are dry and cooler.
Activities
Lake Natron Shores (Half Day)
Easy guided walk from the Eco Lodge. In one hour, you will have reached the Southern part of Lake Natron to explore the ecological diversity and discover the magnificent breeding sites of flamingos. Around two millions of these large birds migrate each year to nest on the salty pack ice, forming in the dry season in the middle of the Lake.
During this walk you will cross a forest where you will have the pleasure of meeting our neighbours the giraffes.
Wonderful sunset to admire if you go there at the end of the day.
Engarasero Falls (Half Day)
Accompanied by a Maasai guide, come and refresh yourself in the falls of Engaresero river.
The round hike will take you 2-3 hours. You will join the start of the walk by 4x4.
The walk follows the bed of the river. You will contemplate the huge gorges to finally discover and take a good shower in the cataract.
After your return, your driver will drive you back to our lodge.
You can also choose to start your trek directly from Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge, which will take you 4-5 hours. You will cross the beautiful valley admiring the volcano and you will surely be escort by Maasai children.
Trek To The Escarpment Of Leparekashi (Full Day)
You will leave around sunrise to get to the foot of the mountains of the rift valley. There, you will begin the ascent to reach the place called "Leparakashi", place of semi nomadic Maasai, who graze their herds in these pastures of altitude during the dry season. You will meet warriors with their animals but also families who live up there temporarily. Your Maasai guide will have plenty of time to explain his culture, local rituals and traditions.
Trek To The Upper Waterfalls Of Engarasero River (Full Or Half Day)
Ascent to the Rift Mountains to discover the gorges of Engaresero River. Breathtaking landscapes and change of scenery is guaranteed.
You will climb up to a rocky wall from which hundreds of springs gush out giving birth to the river. Swimming and natural showers along the way is possible.
The round trip to the summit will take 5 to 6 hours and a picnic lunch will be packed for the way. Your Maasai guide will have the opportunity to explain to you his culture, rites and traditions.
Explore East Part of Lake Natron (Full or Half Day)
The landscapes on this side of the lake are breathtaking. You will cross a very arid area where the land has been desertified by salt residues. As you get closer to the foot of the mountains, rivers flow into the lake and the landscape is full of greenery.
Besides a large number of birds such pelicans, marabouts, and flamingos, you will also observe zebras, giraffes, ostriches, gazelles, and wildebeests. The nicest part of being here is perhaps being able to swim in a natural spring water pool with views out to the lake.
Traditional Maasai Village Experience (2 Hours)
On this expedition, you will be able to discover the traditional life of the Maasais, their culture and traditions, and visit their bomas (grouping of huts of an extended family).
You will be able to participate in the milking of animals when they come back from the pastures. Maasais women will offer you the purchase of their handmade Maasai jewelry and the children will be happy to escort you around. The guides work in shifts, and each one will take you to his family of origin. To photograph, you will have to ask permission first.