Ngorongoro To Lake Natron Safari

Safari Information

• Departure; Scheduled and tailor-made departure dates
• Duration; 5 Days / 4 Nights
• Lodging; Safari camps and camping
• Group Size; Minimum 2
• Note: Travel insurance is compulsory for all safaris

Discover the Magic of Tanzania with a 5-Day Adventure Through Craters, Villages, and Lake Natron

This 5-day Tanzanian safari promises an unforgettable blend of untamed wilderness, cultural immersion, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Beginning with the serene beauty of the Empakaai Crater, the itinerary sets the tone for an adventure where you’ll trek through forests, witness a lake alive with flamingos, and spend the night under an endless canopy of stars at fly camps perched in stunning locations. Guided by experienced Maasai guides, you’ll explore remote paths and secluded villages, gaining a rare glimpse into a side of Tanzania that few travelers have the privilege to experience.

From the dramatic vistas of the Rift Valley to the ethereal beauty of Lake Natron and its thriving flamingo population, each day of this safari introduces a new layer of wonder. Whether marveling at the sacred Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano or cooling off in refreshing natural springs, you’ll find the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation. With comfortable accommodations, exceptional meals, and masterfully planned treks, this adventure encapsulates the soul of Tanzania, making it an opportunity that’s as enriching as it is breathtaking.

Day 1: Empakaai Crater

• Arrive at Empakaai fly camp in the late morning in time for lunch and to meet your trekking guide and team.
• This afternoon, descend into the Empakaai Crater with your Maasai guide.
• The path is quite steep and often slippery, so you’ll need to take care.
• It will take around 45mins to an hour to reach the crater floor, emerging from the forest to enjoy views of the crater lake where flamingos are often found.
• Explore with your guides, learning more about the plant life and species that live here, before hiking back to your fly camp on the crater rim.
• The hike back is similarly steep, and the altitude makes most people short of breath, so this hike takes between 1.5 to 2hrs. Return to the fly camp for a hot shower and a tasty campfire-cooked dinner.
• Meals: Full board
• Accommodation: Empakaai fly camp

Day 2: Maasai Land

• Wake to the sunrise this morning, and soak up the incredible vistas, and the peace and quiet, before enjoying a camp breakfast.
• The camp crew will break down the camp and set off ahead with donkeys to prepare your fly camp for tonight, and you’ll start your trek with Maasai guides, passing through rolling hills and remote Maasai villages which can only be reached on foot.
• Very few tourists pass through this area, so make the most of this rare opportunity to see a part of Tanzania that few others have.
• Stop for a picnic lunch before arriving at camp in the mid-afternoon.
• In the late afternoon, there is a hike up to a nearby viewpoint where your efforts are rewarded with spectacular views and the perfect spot for sundowner drinks.
• Meals: Full board
• Accommodation: Leonotis fly camp

Day 3: Lake Natron

• Depending on your fitness levels, there is the choice of a shorter hike down to the rift valley floor or a longer and more strenuous route along the rift wall.
• Whichever you choose, the views are spectacular with Ol Doinyo Lengai looming up ahead at an impressive 2,692 metres above sea level.
• This still-active volcano, whose Maasai name means Mountain of God, is the reason for a total variation in terrain, hydrology, and flora and fauna, as you’ll soon see.
• Descend to the rift valley floor where vehicles await to transfer you to Lake Natron Camp near the natural springs where you can have a swim and a cool down.
• After your long and likely dusty walk, this will be a welcome treat.
• The team at camp will arrange sundowner drinks to celebrate the end of your trek in a scenic spot nearby.
• Meals: Full board
• Accommodation: Lake Natron Camp

Day 4: Lake Natron

• A day to explore and enjoy activities from Lake Natron Camp, depending on your interests and how active or relaxed you feel like being.
• There are numerous short and long hikes to enjoy, including the Ngare Sero gorge and waterfalls, the hominid footprints that are thought to date back possibly as far back as 100,000 years, and of course the flamingos which flock to Lake Natron to breed.
• Meals: Full board
• Accommodation: Lake Natron Camp

Day 5: Ngorongoro To Lake Natron Safari ends

• After breakfast, you will be dropped off at the Ngare Sero Airstrip at Lake Natron for your light aircraft flight to your next destination (likely the Serengeti, or Arusha).
• You can fly out of the airstrip by charter, or if you prefer, we can arrange (at additional cost) for you to be transferred to Manyara airstrip for an onward scheduled flight.
• Alternatively a driver-guide can pick you up and drive you into the Serengeti, also at additional cost.
• A picnic lunch is included for you to ensure you arrive at your destination well fed.
• Meals: Breakfast and picnic lunch