Description
Ol Doinyo Lengai, also known as ‘Mountain of God’ in the Maasai language, is the only active volcano in Tanzania and the third highest peak in the country. Located in the Gregory Rift, which is just south of the nearby Lake Natron in the Arusha region of Tanzania. If you have the chance, Lake Natron is one of the best places to visit in Tanzania and is unique to the lush plains and cold mountain regions.
The volcano is a popular hiking destination for those looking for a unique challenge. It’s one of the steepest hikes I’ve done in my life with 1600m of elevation in just five kilometres. The peak reaches 2,962m and is an interesting geological destination with the carbonatite rock derived from magma, a unique feature in this region.
The hike takes anywhere from 6-10 hours and the summit attempt often begins in the middle of the night to reach the peak of the volcano. This early start is to enjoy the sunrise from the summit and to avoid the harsh heat of the region, which can often reach 50 degrees Celsius.
Highlights
Summit the 5,036 m Vinicunca viewpoint with a licensed mountain guide
Two acclimatisation days in the Sacred Valley before the ascent
Small groups of 12 walkers, with support horses available on the climb
Itinerary
Day 1, Day 1: Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano hike details
Hike Distance: The total distance of the hike is 11.2km out and back (return trip)
Hike Duration: This depends a lot on your speed and it can range a lot due to the extreme slope and terrain. The hike can be completed in about 6-12 hours depending on how long you spend at the summit and your hiking pace.
Our elapsed time was 11 hours but we spent four hours waiting for good weather conditions and had lots of breaks. Our actual moving time was just 5.5 hours as we had a decent hiking pace. Our guide told us he took an 80-year-old up the summit and it took 20 hours round-trip.
Hike Difficulty: This trail is quite difficult due to the extreme incline. In just five kilometers you will ascend more than 1600 meters and this is at elevation. The hike will reach 2960m by the time you are at the summit so expect to be short on breath. The other difficulty factors are that you will probably begin at midnight or early so hiking without sleep is tough.
At the summit it can be freezing so there are also weather factors to consider. It’s short, which means it is mostly a mental battle and most people are capable of achieving it at their own pace. Give yourself a chance and have a ‘no-quit mentality and you will make it I’m sure.
Hike Incline: 1600 meters.
Includes & Excludes
Safari according to the itinerary and Accommodation Prices.
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Accommodation as specified
Drinking water during safari
Park entry fees applicable to the itinerary
Game drives according to the itinerary
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Arusha
Government taxes and applicable tourism service charges
International flights
Travel and medical insurance
Tanzania visa
Tips for guide and safari staff
Tips and personal expenses
Personal shopping and souvenirs
Laundry and Optional activities
Additional accommodation before or after the safari
Alcoholic and soft drinks other than the provided drinking water
Any service not specifically listed under “What’s Included”
Tour Details
Date
Around the year
Destination
Tanzania
Duration
1 Day
Departure
Depends On Arrival
Return
Depends On Arrival
Group Size
2+ travellers min
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Provider Details
Tarantula Adventure Safaris
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