5-Day Hiking Safari: Ngorongoro Highlands & Lake Natron Adventure
5-Day Hiking Safari: Ngorongoro Highlands & Lake Natron Adventure
This 5-day hiking safari takes you deep into the dramatic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands and the remote beauty of Lake Natron. You will explore volcanic craters, walk alongside Maasai communities, and experience breathtaking views of Ol Doinyo Lengai — the sacred "Mountain of God."
The journey combines crater hikes, scenic wilderness trekking, waterfalls, flamingo-filled lakes, and authentic cultural encounters. Expect 5–6 hours of walking per day during the first three days, crossing varied terrain including crater rims, highlands, and open valleys. This is a true wilderness hiking experience.
Tour Highlights
- Hiking through Olmoti & Empakaai Craters
- Stunning views of Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano
- Flamingo-filled Empakaai Crater & Lake Natron
- Cultural encounters with Maasai communities
- Engaresero waterfalls swimming experience
- Remote wilderness camping experience
- Guided multi-day trekking with donkey support
- Ngorongoro Highlands scenic trekking routes
After pickup from Arusha, drive into the Ngorongoro Highlands and begin your adventure with a hike at Olmoti Crater. Descend to see the waterfall and explore the crater floor before ascending again.
Later, continue to Empakaai Crater and descend into the crater to witness its stunning scenery and large flocks of flamingos. In the evening, settle at the crater rim for your first overnight camping experience.
Today features a scenic 5–6 hour hike through the Ngorongoro Highlands. The route offers wide open landscapes, wildlife sightings, and continuous views of Ol Doinyo Lengai in the distance. Along the way, you will meet Maasai communities and gain a glimpse of traditional life.
With support from guides and donkeys carrying supplies, arrive at Acacia Camp where your campsite is prepared under acacia trees for a peaceful overnight stay.
After breakfast, hike toward the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai (approximately 4 hours). From there, transfer by vehicle to Lake Natron for lunch and rest at your accommodation.
In the afternoon, visit Engaresero village and interact with local Maasai communities before returning for dinner at the guesthouse.
After breakfast, hike to the Engaresero waterfalls for a refreshing swim in the cool natural pools. Later, visit Lake Natron itself — famous for its massive flocks of flamingos and surreal alkaline salt landscape.
In the evening, enjoy sunset views from a scenic viewpoint before returning to the guesthouse for dinner.
After a relaxed breakfast, begin the drive back to Arusha (approximately 5 hours). A lunchbox will be provided for the journey.
Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your preferred location, marking the end of your 5-day hiking adventure.
- Park fees & conservation charges
- All scheduled hiking activities
- All accommodation (camping & guesthouse)
- Professional guide & ranger support
- Donkey assistance for luggage
- All transport during safari
- Camping equipment & sleeping bag
- Meals as indicated in itinerary
- Drinking water throughout the tour
- All taxes and VAT
- International flights
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Additional accommodation before/after tour
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visas)
- Bath towels
- Tips & gratuities
- Government-imposed tax or park fee increases