Climb Oldoinyo Lengai
(Africa’s Only Active Carbonatite Volcano”)
About Oldoinyo Lengai Hiking
Oldoinyo Lengai means “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language.
It is:
the only active carbonatite volcano in the world
located near Lake Natron
one of the steepest climbs in Tanzania
Unlike Kilimanjaro or Meru, this is not a gradual multi-day trek. It is a short, extremely steep volcanic ascent usually done at night to avoid extreme heat.
Ready for Tanzania’s Most Extreme Volcano Adventure?
Oldoinyo Lengai offers steep technical terrain, raw volcanic landscapes, and sunrise views over the Great Rift Valley for true adventure seekers.
- 📍 Duration: 1–2 Days
- 📈 Success Rate: Weather & fitness dependent
- 🏕 Accommodation: Lodge or campsite
- 🔥 Difficulty: Very Challenging
- ⚡ Best For: Experienced hikers & extreme adventure travelers
Climb Oldoinyo Lengai with expert Guides
Oldoinyo Lengai Hiking Packages
Why Choose the Oldoinyo Lengai Hiking?
🔥 Rare Geological Experience
The only volcano on Earth that erupts natrocarbonatite lava.
🌄 Dramatic Sunrise Views
Summit at dawn overlooking the Great Rift Valley.
⚡ Short but Intense Adventure
Ideal for travelers seeking extreme experiences in limited time.
🌍 Cultural Significance
Sacred mountain of the Maasai people.
Oldoinyo Lengai Hike Pricing – Suggestions by Number of Travelers
How Much Does It Cost to Climb Oldoinyo Lengai?
1-Day Climb: USD $300 – $500 per person
2-Day Package (with accommodation): USD $450 – $800 per person
Prices typically include:
Local guide
Park or community fees
Basic logistics support
Transport to Lake Natron is often separate.
Best option: 2-day private climb
Why:
Remote location increases transport cost
Safer with dedicated guide support
Best option: 2-day climb
Why:
Better value per person
Shared transport cost
Safer group ascent
Best option: Private 2-day group climb
Why:
Significant cost efficiency
Easier logistical coordination
Safer night ascent in a group
Best option: Custom 2-day group departure
Why:
Maximum economies of scale
Lowest per-person transport and guide cost
Easier to assign multiple guides for safety
Ideal for adventure clubs, corporate groups or organized expeditions
This group size offers the most cost-efficient structure while maintaining safety through proper guide-to-client ratios.
Oldoinyo Lengai Success Rate
Success depends heavily on:
physical fitness
weather conditions
volcanic activity
heat management
There is no fixed success percentage because the climb is highly weather dependent.
⚠ Important
This is one of the most physically demanding hikes in Tanzania.
How Many Days Does It Take?
1-Day Climb (Night Ascent)
Midnight start
Summit at sunrise
Descend before heat increases
Very demanding schedule
2-Day Option (Recommended)
Arrival and rest near Lake Natron
Early sleep before midnight start
Safer and better acclimatized to heat
The 2-day option provides better preparation and recovery time.
Accommodation & Logistics
Accommodation options include:
Basic lodge near Lake Natron
Tented campsite
There are no mountain huts on the volcano.
Important notes:
- No permanent facilities on the mountain
- Very limited shade
- Extreme heat during the day
Best Time to Climb
Best months:
June – October
January – February
Avoid heavy rainy seasons due to slippery terrain.
Who Should Choose Oldoinyo Lengai?
Ideal for:
Experienced hikers
Adventure photographers
Extreme travel enthusiasts
Travelers combining Lake Natron safari
Not ideal for:
Beginners
Those afraid of heights
Travelers sensitive to heat
Anyone seeking a gradual scenic trek
Compare With Other Mountains
- Mount Meru – Longer, hut-based and moderate difficulty
- Kilimanjaro routes – Higher altitude but less steep
- Mount Hanang – Remote but less technical
Ready to hike Oldoinyo Lengai?
Climb Africa’s only active carbonatite volcano and experience one of the most dramatic sunrises in the Great Rift Valley.
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Frequently Asked Questions – Oldoinyo Lengai
Is Oldoinyo Lengai safe to climb?
Yes, when guided by experienced local guides and when volcanic activity is stable.
Do I need climbing experience?
Technical climbing is not required, but strong fitness and scrambling ability are necessary.
Why is the climb done at night?
To avoid extreme daytime heat and to reach the summit at sunrise.
Is the volcano currently active?
Oldoinyo Lengai is an active volcano, but climbs are conducted only when conditions are safe.
How steep is the mountain?
It is one of the steepest trekking mountains in Tanzania, with loose volcanic ash sections.
Can beginners attempt this climb?
It is not recommended for beginners.
What should I wear?
Light breathable clothing for ascent, warm layer for summit wind, strong hiking boots, headlamp.
Is altitude sickness common?
Less common than Kilimanjaro due to lower altitude, but still possible.
Can it be combined with safari?
Yes, it is commonly combined with Lake Natron, Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari itineraries.