Mount Oldoinyo Lengai is famously known as the difficult mountain to hike in East Africa this active volcano mountain lies in the Arusha situated in the northern part of Tanzania and almost (9.9mi) south of Lake Natron and it sits next to the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley closer to Ngare Sero waterfall and Lake Natron.
This unique physical feature consists of volcanic cone with two craters. history owns that this mountain was formed by volcanism along the Gregory Rift.
The Sonjo and Maasai people often refer to this stunning “Mountain as the mountain of god” depicted with the traditional story that embodies of the god Engai who withdrew there after being hit by a hunter with the arrow
The Masai people term this mountain as a scared venue a site for worship and some ceremonial rites are conducted from there as well as place of safety to their god Enkai.
What Makes Mount Oldoinyo Lengai the Hardest Mountain to Hike
Hiking Mountain Oldoinyo Lengai involves a very challenging terrain trek passing through steep ash gravel slippery rugged land slopes this adventure usually commences during night hours or early in the morning due to the intensive heat that occurs during day hours.
The entire hiking duration takes almost ten to twelve hours and about six to eight hours while ascending and approximately four hours descending depending on the hiker’s potential.
On reaching its summit which is 977 Feet (2960 meters) then the entire hike adventure is approximately 65 miles (10.5km) at an elevation of 3280 feet (1000 meters).
During the hiking experience guests are granted with the opportunity to see the awe-inspiring clear views of the surrounding area including the stunning waters of Lake Natron as well as over looking the boundless plains of the adorable Rift valley.
On a clear day there are great chances of seeing the astonishing Mountain Kilimanjaro and seeing the sunrise from the top of Oldoinyo Lengai mountain hence an unforgettable experience.
The Best Time for Hiking Mount Oldoinyo Lengai
Hiking mountain Oldainyo Lengai takes place throughout the whole year however Jun to early October are the coolest and driest months best and more favorable for climbing this stunning mountain.
The rainy season usually happens in the months of late March to early May most roads are muddy and slippery in this period hence navigating to this mountain is really difficult.
Tourists are advised to make use of 4×4 wheel drive tourist’s vehicle when coming to visit this mountain because most roads are in bad state in order to avoid any inconvenience on the way.
The Essential Gear to Carry for the Hike
Tourists should always make it a point to pack these important items listed below for the Ol Doinyo Lengai climb.
- A head lamp to act as source of light in the dark hours.
- A portable waterproof bag to carry your personal items food and enough drinking water.
- Sun glasses and brimmed hat to avoid direct exposure to the direct strong sunlight rays
- Light hiking boots
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen to protect the body against direct sunlight
- Hiking gloves among others
The cost of the hiking this mountain varies though its between US$70 for the solo hiker and US$ 100 however price many change always confirm with the current price.
Accommodation Facilities Situated Near Mount Oldoinyo Lengai
Guests can make use of lodging and camp site ranging from budget to luxurious depending on your choice. These facilities are situated nearby Lake Natron and Ngare Sero village as listed below
Facilities near Lake Natron
- African Safari Lake Natron
- Lake Natron Tented and Camp
- Ngaro Sero Lake Natron Camp
- Masai Giraffe Eco Lodge
Facilities near Ngare Sero village
- Ngare Sero Mountain Lodge
- Ngare Lodge
- Ngurdoto Mountain Lodge
- Century Lodge Ngarenaro
- Serena Mivumo River Lodge
- African View lodge
In Conclusion
History say that a Germany geologist Hans Reck was the first individual to hike this mountain to its summit in a year 1917 pay a visit to this hidden treasure it is an ideal spot for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
