5 Days Nature Walking Safari in Ngorongoro & Lake Natron

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will warmly be met by our representative and transfer you to your place of stay in Arusha for dinner and an overnight.

Distance: Walk around Nainokanoma village and hike to Olmoti Crater (Approx. 8 km total)

Duration: 4-5 hours

Arrive in the picturesque Nainokanoma Village in the morning. Here, you’ll meet with your Maasai guides who will introduce you to the unique way of life in this traditional settlement. Take a leisurely walk through the village, learning about the customs, rituals, and everyday life of the Maasai people. In the afternoon, I head out to explore Olmoti Crater, a lush and verdant caldera. The walk to the crater’s rim offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and the Ngorongoro Highlands. You’ll likely encounter some wildlife along the way, including buffalo and baboons, as the area is home to abundant flora and fauna. Enjoy a relaxing evening at a camp near the crater with a view of the sprawling landscape.

Safari Highlights:

• Authentic Maasai village experience.
• Walk around a stunning volcanic caldera.
• Great birdwatching, particularly around the crater edges.

Distance: 15 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

After breakfast, begin your trek from Nainokanoka to Blate, a journey that takes you through rolling hills and wide-open spaces. As you walk, you’ll pass a traditional Maasai boma (homestead) where you can stop to observe the intricacies of Maasai life and their cattle herding practices. This section of the trek also offers sweeping views of the surrounding savannahs, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes in the distance. Arriving at Blate, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the Ngorongoro Highlands. Spend the night at a camp in the area, where you can relax and enjoy the serenity of this secluded part of the world.

Safari Highlights:

• Immersive Maasai cultural interactions.
• Majestic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands.
• Varied wildlife sightings, including giraffes and antelopes.

Distance: 16 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

This morning, embark on your hike from Blate to Empakai Crater, a pristine and lesser-visited gem within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The trek begins with a descent into a deep valley that leads to the crater’s rim. You’ll be accompanied by a donkey carrying your luggage, allowing you to focus on the trek and immerse yourself fully in the beauty of your surroundings. Empakai Crater is known for its striking soda lake at the center, attracting flamingos and various waterfowls. The walk around the crater’s rim provides dramatic views of the lake, surrounded by a lush, green forest. Take time to absorb the beauty and tranquility of this magical spot.

Safari Highlights:

• Incredible birdlife, especially flamingos.
• A chance to explore the unspoiled wilderness of Empakai.
• Scenic views of the soda lake and the surrounding cliffs.

Distance: 16.3 km

Duration: 6-7 hours

Beginning the day with a refreshing walk from Empakai Crater towards Acacia Camp, passing through the village of Naiyobi along the way. The journey through Naiyobi offers an opportunity to experience rural Maasai life firsthand, with villagers often welcoming trekkers and offering insight into their daily routines. As you continue the hike, you’ll pass through a varied landscape, from grassy plains to acacia-dotted savannah. The camp near Acacia is a peaceful spot with stunning views of the Ngorongoro Highlands, providing a perfect place to unwind after a long day of trekking.

Safari Highlights:

• Cultural interactions with Maasai villagers in Naiyobi.
• Walking through diverse ecosystems, from acacia forests to open plains.
• Overnight stay at a beautiful, peaceful campsite.

Distance: 17 km

Duration: 7-8 hours

On the final day of your trek, embark on a longer and more challenging hike towards Ngaresero Natron. This route offers unparalleled views of Mount Oldonyo Lengai, the “Mountain of God” for the Maasai, which is an active volcano. The journey will take you across vast stretches of plains and valleys, giving you a sense of the vastness of the Rift Valley. Upon reaching Ngaresero Natron, enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with Mount Oldonyo Lengai towering in the distance. Depending on time and energy levels, you may have the option to visit the nearby hot springs or salt flats. This marks the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable adventure in one of Tanzania’s most remote and stunning regions.

Safari Highlights:

• Close-up views of Mount Oldonyo Lengai.
• Unique geological features of the Rift Valley, including salt flats and hot springs.
• Beautiful vistas of the Natron region, with its diverse landscapes.