Trip Overview
Embark on a 5-day adventure through the Ngorongoro Highlands to the breathtaking Lake Natron. This trek combines spectacular crater views, Maasai culture, wildlife spotting, and dramatic landscapes, including Olmoti and Empakai Craters, Oldoinyo Lengai volcano, and the Great Rift Valley. Hike through traditional Maasai villages, enjoy pristine nature, waterfalls, and stunning panoramas, with comfortable camps along the route. This trek is ideal for travelers seeking a cultural and natural immersion in northern Tanzania.
Details Itinerary
Day 1: Moshi/Arusha → Olmoti Crater → Nainokanoka Camp
- Depart Moshi or Arusha in the morning for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
- Drive along the crater rim, stopping at scenic points until reaching Nainokanoka settlement.
- In the afternoon, enjoy a walk to the rim of Olmoti Crater, including a visit to a small waterfall along the way.
- Dinner and overnight at Nainokanoka Camp.
Day 2: Nainokanoka Camp → Empakai Crater
- Meet your Maasai guides and donkeys after breakfast; load supplies for the trek.
- Begin trekking through traditional Maasai bomas, observing local herders and wildlife such as gazelles, zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes.
- Trek duration: approximately 7–8 hours.
- Arrive at Empakai Crater and enjoy spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley, Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, and distant Lake Natron.
- Dinner and overnight at Empakai Crater rim campsite.
Day 3: Empakai Crater → Naiyobi Village → Acacia Camp
- Trek through the highlands toward the Maasai town of Naiyobi.
- Keep an eye out for Oldoinyo Lengai, the active volcano visible from afar.
- Trek duration: approximately 8–9 hours.
- After visiting Naiyobi, exit the Ngorongoro Conservation Area into drier, warmer terrain.
- Dinner and overnight at Acacia Trees Camp.
Day 4: Acacia Camp → Lake Natron → Kamakia Camp
- Trek 6–7 hours, mostly downhill, passing the ashes from Oldoinyo Lengai’s eruptions.
- Enjoy stunning views of Oldoinyo Lengai, Lake Natron, and the Great Rift Valley.
- Visit Engare Sero waterfall near the campsite.
- Dinner and overnight at Lake Natron Kamakia Camp.
- (Optional: add a day for climbing Oldoinyo Lengai; please request when booking.)
Day 5: Lake Natron → Moshi/Arusha
- Morning exploration around Lake Natron after breakfast.
- Return drive to Moshi or Arusha.
- Optional transfer to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport can be arranged.
- End of 5-day tour.
