A steep midnight climb on an active volcano with a crater-rim sunrise.
Lake Natron, a red soda lake where flamingos breed when conditions are right.
A visit to a local Maasai community with a village guide.
Overview
Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only volcano in the world that erupts carbonatite lava, and the climb is one of the toughest short adventures in Tanzania. It is steep and loose, and the descent is hard on the legs.
The trip includes an overnight in the Engaresero area, where you can also see Lake Natron and the escarpment. Read more on Ol Doinyo Lengai and Lake Natron.
A long drive north through Maasai country to Engaresero, a stop for a village visit and a walk to the waterfalls beside the lake, and an early dinner before the climb.
Day2Midnight climb and return to ArushaOl Doinyo Lengai
We start around midnight with your guide and reach the crater rim before sunrise. After the descent you rest at camp, have breakfast and drive back to Arusha in the afternoon.
Photos from the trip
What’s included
Local guide (and armed ranger where the park requires it)
Park, forest or village fees for the route
Lodge, guesthouse or camp nights as described, with meals on the hike
Private transfers from the meeting point and back
Drinking water and a packed lunch on trek days
Not included
International flights and Tanzania visa
Personal hiking kit, boots and daypack
Drinks, snacks and tips
Travel insurance, which is required
Prices by season
Per person in USD, 2026 rates, based on 2 travellers sharing.
High season
1 Jun – 31 Oct
$560
Shoulder season
1 Jan – 31 Mar
$520
Shoulder season
1 Nov – 15 Dec
$520
Green season
Best value
1 Apr – 31 May
$475
Travelling in a group? You save
Per-person price for the Green season rate.
1 traveller
$722
--52%
2 travellers
$475
-0%
3 travellers
$461
-3%
4 travellers
$451
-5%
5 travellers
$442
-7%
6 travellers
$432
-9%
7 travellers
$428
-10%
8 travellers
$423
-11%
Frequently asked questions
Can the volcano be climbed in the rainy season?
It is harder and less safe on wet, loose ash. The dry months from June to October are the best time.
Do I need special equipment?
Sturdy walking shoes, a daypack, layers and a rain jacket. We send a full kit list when you book and can arrange hire of poles or jackets.
