Lake Natron Tented Camp is nestled in an acacia grove south of Engare Sero village, near Lake Natron. This 3-star camp offers tented accommodation in a remote region of northern Tanzanie, between savanna, alkaline lake and an active volcano.

Why stay at Lake Natron Tented Camp

This camp's appeal lies in its location: few accommodations exist in this isolated area, wedged between the Serengeti plains and the Ngorongoro highlands. It serves as a natural base for two complementary experiences: observing flamingos on Lake Natron and climbing Ol'Doinyo Lengai, the world's only active volcano emitting carbonatite lava. Proximity to Maasai communities living around the lake adds a cultural dimension to your stay.

Camp atmosphere

The restaurant-bar forms the heart of camp life. The counter and tables are built from assembled branches beneath a thatched roof, on stone paving that stays cool during the day. The atmosphere remains simple, oriented toward passing travelers stopping for a night or two before or after an excursion. In the evening, campfires are lit outside, facing the distant panorama of the lake.

The tents

The camp offers raised tentalows set on stone foundations, each equipped with a private veranda. Accommodations can host up to 3 people. Inside each tent:

• Private bathroom
• Electricity supplied by solar panels
• Beds with mosquito nets
• Daily housekeeping by staff

For travelers seeking a more rustic experience, you can pitch your own tent in the camp's garden.

Dining and services

The kitchen blends Tanzanian specialties with international dishes, served at the restaurant-bar. A natural spring-fed swimming pool sits just behind the camp—a welcome option after a hike or long day of travel, in a region where heat can be intense.

Location and access

Lake Natron lies in a remote region of northern Tanzanie. Access is by road only, on sometimes challenging tracks. Allow approximately 5 hours of driving from Mto wa Mbu passing through several villages, and around 8 hours from Klein's Gate north of the Serengeti. This logistics makes it a stage to plan ahead of time rather than an impromptu excursion.

When to visit

The dry season, from June to October, offers the best conditions for hiking Ol'Doinyo Lengai and traveling the access roads. Flamingos are visible year-round on the lake, but their presence is particularly significant between August and October, breeding season. If possible, avoid April and May, when rains make the tracks barely passable.

Activities from the camp

Three experiences structure a stay here:

• Lake Natron at sunrise: observing flamingos and local birdlife, with raking light on the alkaline waters.
• Climbing Ol'Doinyo Lengai, the Maasai "Mountain of God": night departure, steep climb over several hours, requiring no technical gear but demanding physical fitness.
• Meeting Maasai communities living in the area, who maintain a pastoral way of life.

Other accommodations in Tanzanie

To complete a circuit in the country's north, several options depending on your stops:

• The Gran Melia Arusha at the start or end of your circuit.
• The Karatu Simba Lodge for exploring around Ngorongoro.
• The Kinasi Lodge on Mafia Island, for a beach stopover.

Preparing your trip

Lake Natron Tented Camp fits into a northern Tanzanie circuit combining safari, volcanic hiking and Maasai encounters. To build a complete itinerary, explore our travels in Tanzanie.