Lake Natron

Reddish waters, thousands of flamingos and the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano watching over it all.

When to go

Year-round; flamingo numbers tend to peak from June to October.

What to expect

An alkaline lake stained red by algae, one of Africa's largest colonies of lesser flamingos, and landscapes that feel like another planet.

Where to stay

Simple camps by the lake, designed for short one or two night stays.

A remote landscape, off the usual routes

Natron sits far to the north, away from the classic park circuit, which is why very few travellers make it here. It is the perfect stop for those who already know the savannah and want something different: silence, extreme colours, and an active volcano in the background.

It pairs especially well with Ngorongoro and Lake Eyasi, as the finale of a more adventurous route.

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