Oldonyo Lengai & Lake natron

Ol Doinyo Lengai and Lake Natron are two iconic natural features in northern Tanzania, closely linked in their unique landscapes. Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” to the Maasai, is an active volcano famous for its carbonatite lava, which is cooler and more fluid than typical lava. Lake Natron is a soda lake known for its high alkalinity and reddish hue, caused by algae and bacteria. Together, they create a dramatic and strikingly beautiful environment, especially known as the breeding ground for lesser flamingos.
Ol Doinyo Lengai:
Active Volcano:
Ol Doinyo Lengai is a symmetrical cone-shaped volcano that last erupted in 2013.
Natrocarbonatite Lava:
It is the only volcano on Earth that erupts natrocarbonatite lava, a unique type of lava rich in sodium and potassium, which is less viscous and cooler than typical lava.
Maasai Significance:
The Maasai people consider it sacred and name it “Mountain of God”.
Hiking Destination:
The volcano is a challenging, but rewarding, hiking destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including Lake Natron.
Lake Natron:
Soda Lake:
Lake Natron is a shallow, highly alkaline lake, with a high concentration of salt and other minerals.
Red and Orange Hues:
The lake’s reddish-orange color comes from the microorganisms that thrive in the alkaline waters, such as bacteria and algae.
Flamingo Breeding Ground:
It is the most important breeding ground for lesser flamingos in East Africa, with up to 2.5 million flamingos gathering here.
Harsh Environment:
The lake’s high alkalinity and temperature make it inhospitable to most other forms of life.
Rift Valley Feature:
Lake Natron is located in the eastern branch of the East African Rift Valley, which also hosts the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai.