Lake Natron
Lake Natron is positioned in northern Tanzania, adjacent to the Kenyan border, northeast of the Ngorongoro Crater. The terrain is characterized by Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano located immediately south of Lake Natron. The lake measures 56 kilometers in length and 22 kilometers in width. Lake Natron is chiefly supplied by the Southern Ewaso Ng’iro River and mineral-rich hot springs.
Due to the inability of water to exit the lake, evaporation rates are significantly elevated, resulting in the deposition of natron (sodium carbonate decahydrate) and trona (sodium sesquicarbonate dihydrate). The elevated natron concentration results in excessive alkalinity, rendering the lake one of the most lethal on Earth. The adjacent area is unsettling due to its nearness to a perilous body of water, however it is abundant in unusual flora and fauna.
In January 2021, Lake Natron was showcased in the inaugural episode of ‘A Perfect Planet’, a BBC series presented by David Attenborough. Matt Aeberhard, a camera operator for the program, stated that ‘the pH level of the lake is nearly equivalent to that of home bleach.’ Aeberhard remarked that ‘until recently, more individuals had set foot on the moon than had truly stood in Lake Natron.’
The camera crew successfully overcame the elements by traversing to the lake in a hovercraft.
Wildlife in Lake Natron
Despite the lake’s toxic nature for most fauna, a distinctive ecosystem has emerged in this inhospitable setting, presenting intriguing prospects for nature aficionados and avian observers.
Salt marshes and freshwater wetlands have developed, establishing a habitat for long-legged waterfowl. The lake harbors two endemic fish species: Alcolapia latilabris and Alcolapia ndalalani. Alcolapia alcalica is also present in Lake Natron, although it is not native to the area.
Lesser flamingos represent the most renowned attraction of Lake Natron. Seventy-five percent of the global population of lesser flamingos originated from this lake. They
congregate at the lake from August to October to deposit their eggs, which hatch during the wet season in November.
The vicinity also has several species capable of thriving in this arid and dusty environment, including kudus, oryxes, gerenuks, zebras, and ostriches. Fortunate explorers may even observe a golden jackal!
Despite Lake Natron’s lack of diverse species compared to adjacent natural parks, it is intriguing to observe life in proximity to such a lethal body of water.
How to get to Lake Natron?
We advise visiting Lake Natron upon your return from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or Serengeti National Park.
The travel from the Serengeti is extensive; therefore, it is advisable to divide the trip by overnighting at Kleins Gate, an exit point on the outside of Serengeti National Park.
The subsequent morning, you will undertake an 8-hour journey to Engaresero. Your lodging in Engaresero will serve as your base for explorations at Lake Natron.
Following your visit to Lake Natron, you should embark on a three-hour drive to Arusha.
When is the Best Best Time to Visit Lake Natron
The best time to visit Lake Natron is the dry season, spanning from late May to early November, as these months are comparatively cooler. The region experiences excessive heat during the brief dry season from December to February.
In August, the flamingos commence congregating at the lake and persist in accumulating until October. Visiting during these months provides an opportunity to witness this remarkable assembly.
The dry season offers improved conditions for hiking in the vicinity, while trails can be perilous during the wet season.
In the dry season, elevated evaporation rates augment the lake’s salinity. The elevation of the lake’s salinity accelerates the proliferation of cyanobacteria, resulting in a more vibrant pink hue. The cyanobacteria serve as sustenance for the flamingos.
Things To Do in Lake Natron
Bird Watching
Lake Natron is a good location for bird enthusiasts.
Lake Natron serves as the sole consistent breeding site in East Africa for 2.5 million lesser flamingos. Their reliance on the habitat prompted the International Union for Conservation of Nature to classify the flamingos as ‘near threatened.’
Birdwatchers should carry sufficient water and wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain may become exceedingly hot in this arid region of Tanzania.
Hiking
Adventurers seeking a challenge can ascend Ol Doinyo Lengai with the assistance of a knowledgeable guide.
Ol Doinyo Lengai translates to ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language. The ascent is really steep, and we advise possessing mountaineering experience.
The ascent is typically undertaken at night to evade the sweltering afternoon heat.
Ascending at night enables one to witness the breathtaking dawn from the peak.
Where to stay around Lake Natron
Aside from the exhilarating prospect of residing in a Maasai Boma, housing alternatives around Lake Natron are scarce. The two alternatives comprise the Lake Natron Camp and the Africa Safari Lake Natron.
Lake Natron Camp is a rudimentary yet comfortable choice. The tents are expansive and provide a private porch space for observing the sunset. With only 10 tents available, a tranquil and exclusive experience is assured. Additionally, they possess a natural swimming pool for refreshing oneself at the day’s conclusion.
African Safari Lake Natron is a luxury lodge situated on the periphery of the national park. It provides a range of pleasant accommodations at different pricing points, together with a private pool and a bar area for enjoying your preferred evening beverage.