Best hotels in Lake Natron

Lengai is a small and exclusive family-run camp surrounded by moonlike open plains, their surface dotted by seven small volcanic craters. The area, large as it is, forms just part of the 17,000 square kilometer Lake Natron Game Controlled Area (West), an expansive wilderness with astonishing scenery and ancient landscapes. And it's all there for you to explore if you're staying at Lengai, from the ancient hominid footprints embedded in the lava on the shores of Lake Natron to the flocks of flamingos on the lake itself, the dramatic volcanoes and enough animals to fulfill your dreams.

Looking for something that you won’t find in the guidebooks? Then this spectacular three-night/four-day trek through the remote wilderness of northern Tanzania is the trip for you. Start your expedition at Empakaai Crater, Ngorongoro’s forgotten little sister, before journeying through the cracks and crevices of the Great Rift Valley, to centuries-old Lake Natron. This isn’t the Africa of game drives and silver service - this is the Africa of tradition, adventure and haunting beauty that brings a whole new meaning to ‘off the beaten track.

Hikers and birdwatchers will be in heaven on a visit to this camp. It’s situated right on the fringe of East Africa’s biggest breeding ground for the lesser flamingo and it’s spread across the valley, right below a awe-inspiring volcano called the Mountain of God in Maasai. Yup, it’s all very impressive and special. The camp set up is basic, but modern and stylish. And for some travellers, this will be more than enough. A bonus is that the camp is within walking distance of the ancient hominid footprints and situated alongside a watercourse.

You may have heard of Lake Natron, the abundance of lesser flamingos, the towering Ol Doinya volcano, the ancient hominid footprints and the breathtaking landscape. This special region in Tanzania is well worth a trip before or after an Ngorongoro or Serengeti safari. It will rejuvenate you, break the routine and offer a new perspective on this spectacular East African region. Spend your days exploring all the excursions on offer and chill out in camp while being hypnotised by the views.

The camp is a lovely treed oasis and offers a good but basic base for trips to see Lake Natron, an important flamingo breeding ground and the still-active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. The scenery here, between the Ngorongoro Highlands and Serengeti plains, is breathtaking. The tented lodge offers en-suite accommodation in permanent tents, local style thatched bandas and a campsite under the foliage. There’s also a natural swimming pool for cooling off in and a large bar and restaurant area under thatch serving fresh, three-course meals.

Empakai Camp is located right on the edge of Empakai Crater, offering guests spectacular views looking into the crater. It is a truly special and unique location and a great spot for bird watching. It is also the starting point for The Great Rift Valley Trek (Empakai to Natron). Each tent offers guests cosy and comfortable twin beds that can be made into a double bed. Each tent has an outside toilet and shower unit (private per tent).

A truly special location nestled in the Great Rift Valley, located right below Empakai crater and on route to Lake Natron in a grove of magical Acacia trees. This camp, accessible only by foot, is mid way on the Great Rift Valley Trek and part of an amazing journey and conservation effort to protect the surrounding endangered forest. Each tent offers guests cosy and comfortable twin beds that can be made into a double bed. Each tent has an outside toilet and shower unit (private per tent).