3-Day Ol Doinyo Lengai Trek – Sacred Mountain of the Maasai
This 3-day Ol Doinyo Lengai Trek offers an unforgettable hike up the only active carbonatite volcano in the world. Experience dramatic Rift Valley scenery, Maasai culture, and a night-time summit climb for a breathtaking sunrise from the “Mountain of God.”
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Lake Natron
- Drive Time: ~6–7 hours
- Accommodation: Camp near Lake Natron
Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive through the Great Rift Valley, passing through remote Maasai villages. Reach Lake Natron by afternoon and enjoy a guided walk to the waterfalls or flamingo viewpoints. Overnight at a basic camp near the lake.
Day 2: Lake Natron – Midnight Hike to Summit
- Start Time: ~Midnight
- Summit Altitude: 2,962m
- Hiking Duration: 6–8 hours (up and down)
- Habitat: Volcanic slopes
Rest during the day and prepare for the trek. Around midnight, begin your ascent of Ol Doinyo Lengai under the stars. The steep, ash-covered trail challenges even experienced hikers. Reach the summit by sunrise for awe-inspiring views of Lake Natron, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Mount Meru.
Day 3: Descend & Return to Arusha
- Drive Time: ~6–7 hours
- Optional: Visit Maasai village en route
After descending and breakfast, begin your drive back to Arusha. Enjoy scenic stops and local culture along the way. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon or early evening.
What’s Included in the 3-Day Trek
✅ Park fees
✅ Rescue fees
✅ Guide, cook, and porters
✅ Mountain huts accommodation
✅ Meals and drinking water
✅ Transfers to/from
What’s Not Included
❌ Flights
❌ Visa fees
❌ Tips for guides and porters
❌ Personal trekking gear and equipment
💰 Price Per Person
Group Size | Price per Person |
---|---|
1 Trekker | $ 870 |
2–4 Trekkers | $ 750 |
4–9 Trekkers | $ 690 |
10+ Trekkers | $ 640 |
Discounts available for larger groups. Contact us for custom quotes.
Ready to Climb Mount Oldonyo Lengai?
Why Trek Mount Oldonyo Lengai With Tanzania Trip Service?
Local experienced guides
Focus on safety and proper acclimatization
High summit success rate
24/7 WhatsApp support
Faqs
A: The best route depends on your goals. Lemosho and Northern Circuit are great for acclimatization and scenery. Machame is popular and scenic, Marangu has huts, Rongai is dry and quiet, and Umbwe is very steep and challenging.
A: The Lemosho and Northern Circuit routes are considered the most scenic, offering panoramic views from all sides of Kilimanjaro.
A: The Northern Circuit has the highest summit success rate due to its long duration and excellent acclimatization profile.
A: Marangu offers hut accommodations and a gentle trail, but its shorter duration makes acclimatization more difficult. It's more comfortable but not necessarily easier to summit.
A: All routes except Marangu require camping. Marangu is the only route with mountain huts along the way.
A: 6 to 9 days is ideal. Shorter routes are possible but reduce summit success rates due to limited acclimatization time.
A: The best months are January to March and June to October, which are dry seasons with clear skies and stable weather.
A: Yes, guides are mandatory. Kilimanjaro National Park regulations require all climbers to be accompanied by licensed guides and a mountain crew.
A: You don’t need technical climbing skills, but you should be in good physical shape with strong endurance and mental determination.
A: Rongai, Northern Circuit, and parts of Lemosho are quieter and more remote, making them great options for avoiding crowds.
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