Shimmering under the scorching sun on the border with Kenya, northeast of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, lies Lake Natron. This beautiful alkaline lake, 58 km long but only 50 cm deep, should be on every adventurer’s itinerary. As the freshwater evaporates in the lake, water with high concentrations of saline minerals such as sodium and trona remains. The high concentrations of salt and minerals make the lake’s water an inhospitable environment for many species and a unique place where geology and biology interact in a fascinating way.
The roads leading to it pass through little-traveled Maasai land, with small bomas and towering mountains often in view in a wild, scorched landscape, offering an authentic and remote experience, far from the hustle and bustle of more touristy areas.
Lake Natron is located in northern Tanzania, on the border with Kenya, near Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and is dominated by the Maasai’s sacred mountain, Ol Doinyo Lengai. The lake serves as a breeding ground for thousands of flamingos, as its high temperature (up to 60°C) and high salinity provide a safe nesting environment, offering protection against predators that try to reach the nests on the seasonal evaporation islands.
The active volcanic area around the lake is a geologically fascinating region, characterized by a series of impressive waterfalls and deep gorges formed by the erosion of lava flows. These dramatic landscapes were shaped by thousands of years of volcanic activity, resulting in unique rock formations.
In total, the lake is about 60 km long and 20 km wide, but since it is primarily fed by rainfall, its extent varies considerably. At the peak of the dry season, it can shrink to approximately 1 km in width. Sometimes, the shallow lake dries up completely, leaving a white salt crust. Consequently, the area of the alkaline lake varies between 800 km² at the end of the rainy season and 1 km² towards the end of the dry season, depending on the amount of rainfall in the region.
In addition to the flamingos, some species of fish (such as tilapia) inhabit the shoreline waters, which are less salty. Lake Natron also hosts some endemic algae, invertebrates, and other bird species. Near the lake, tens of thousands of birds can be seen, making Lake Natron an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
It is very difficult to predict the arrival of the migratory flamingos. The problem with Lake Natron is that it should be avoided during the wetter seasons, as there is a high chance of the car getting stuck in the mud. Therefore, the best time to visit is from July to October. Due to the improved road conditions, it is now possible to visit the area year-round (even during the heavy rains).
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