Overview
Oldoinyo Lengai: 'mountain of God'
Climb Oldoinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” by the Maasai, is an active volcano that towers over northern Tanzania. It’s the only volcano in the world that erupts carbonatite lava, making it a rare and fascinating destination for adventure seekers.
The climb to the summit is a unique overnight hike. The trail is steep and covered in loose volcanic ash, which makes it a tough but rewarding challenge. At the top, you’ll be greeted by a stunning sunrise and panoramic views of endless plains, the shimmering salt flats of Lake Natron, and the vast Great Rift Valley.
Oldoinyo Lengai is more than just a geological wonder it’s also a sacred site for the Maasai people. This adds deep cultural meaning to the experience, making the journey not just about the views, but also about connection and respect for the land.
Whether you’re drawn by nature, challenge, or spiritual meaning, this mountain offers something truly unforgettable.
Route itinerary options
Click to expand the various itinerary options for this route. Itineraries indicated as * Recommended * are chosen for their duration, acclimatization and good route profile.
Day 1 - Lake Natron - Climb Oldoinyo Lengai
You start at the base of the mountain at mid-night (00:00am) with a challenging hike up Mount Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania's active volcano, known to the Maasai as the "Mountain of God." This challenging hike involves scrambling and requires a high fitness to complete offering stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes. After descending, enjoy a well-deserved rest and lunch at the base of the mountain or back at your lodge.
Note: Oldoinyo Lengai Trekking is operated and guided by local guides from the Engarasero Wildlife Management Area.
- Approx driving distance: 0.5-1 hour to base of Oldoinyo Lengai / 0.5-1 hour back to Engarasero.
- Expected game drive: None
- Activities usually included: Oldoinyo Lengai trek with local guide
- Optional extras: Porter to carry your daypack, Lake Natron cultural activities
- Meals included: As per your accommodation booked
- Commonly seen animals: Unknown
- Occasionally seen animals: Unknown
- Rarely seen animals: Unknown
Overnight (optional)
Price, includes & add-ons
Click to see price indication for the various group options and group sizes avaialble. You can always request a custom quote: contact us.
Price per person (USD $)
Private group (private departure)
please request a quoteScheduled group (shared departure)
please request a quote* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Scheduled departures for Oldoinyo Lengai trekking are currently not available however for small groups we can consider offering your dates for others to join.
Standard packages usually include
- Professional and highly experienced mountain guides ensuring safe treks, fair porter care, and expert knowledge of Lengai’s challenging volcanic terrain.
- All trekking permits, park entry, and conservation fees pre-arranged, guaranteeing smooth access to Ol Doinyo Lengai, Lake Natron, and surrounding Maasai villages.
- Complete safety support with first-aid kits, emergency response planning, local evacuation coordination, and teams trained for high-altitude and volcanic conditions.
- All taxes, VAT and village / activity fees as applicable.
- All National Park DAY conservation or park entry fee as applicable to the planned itinerary
- All National Park NIGHT concession or Wildlife management Area fees as applicable to the planned itinerary
- Specially modified 4x4 Land cruiser with pop up roof, radio calls and English speaking driver-guide, charging ports (Type G socket) and luggage space for a soft bag, max 20kg per person or maximum available space in vehicle. Note that safari vehicles have very limited overall luggage space.
- 1.5lts per person, per day of bottled drinking water
- Basic camping safaris include a tent, mattress, camping equipment and a personal cook (sharing for even numbered groups + 1 single tent for odd numbers)
- Special camping safaris include a tent, mattress, camping equipment and a personal cook (sharing for even numbered groups + 1 single tent for odd numbers) with a private portable camping shower and camping toilet for use at special campsites.
- Budget, medium and high range safaris include full board (or half board / bed and breakfast if indicated) accommodation (sharing or single with a supplement)
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips / gratuities.
- Beverages such as soft drinks, alcohol etc.
- International flights. Learn More about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn More about insurance.
- Visas. Learn More about visas.
- Items of a personal nature.
- Metal & hard plastic water bottles, water bladders etc.
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Although our standard package can be more than enough for most, we appreciate many desire certain comfort upgrades and add-ons and our tours can be customized to include as much or as little as you need.
Maasai Boma visit
Walking safaris
Wilderness bush lunch
Canoeing safari
Maasai village
Nature hikes
Night game drives
Olduvai Gorge Museum
Traditional lunches
Pre & Post Accommodation for your Oldoinyo Lengai Treks
Before and after your Oldoinyo Lengai trek, relax in charming eco-lodges, rustic guesthouses, or boutique retreats. These stays provide comfort, cultural charm, and the perfect base for exploring or unwinding.
Lake Natron Camp
Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge
Lake Natron Tented Camp
Africa Safari, Lake Natron
Shah Tours basic campsite
Essential Information for Oldoinyo Lengai Visit
Before your trip, review these key travel tips and planning guides to help you prepare for a comfortable and meaningful experience.
Travel Info for Tanzania
Which Airport to Choose?
Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & videos
Discover handpicked photos and videos showcasing the Oldoinyo Lengai. From lush rainforests and rolling hills to cultural encounters and scenic viewpoints, explore the beauty and charm of this hidden gem.
Why Book Your Oldoinyo Lengai trek with Shah Tours?
Shah Tours offers expert guides, authentic cultural experiences, and customizable trekking packages in the Oldoinyo Lengai. With decades of experience, reliable support, and ethical practices, we ensure a safe, enriching, and unforgettable adventure.
Specially Modified
Expert driver-guides
Tailor made itineraries
Comprehensive Safety Measures
All luxury levels
Since 1984!
Frequently Asked Questions About Oldoinyo Lengai trek
Find answers to common questions about visiting the Oldoinyo Lengai. From the best time to visit, top hiking trails, cultural experiences, and accommodation options, these FAQs help you plan a memorable and well-prepared journey.
Ol Doinyo Lengai “Mountain of God”
Ol Doinyo Lengai translates to “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. For the Maasai, it is a sacred place believed to be the dwelling of their deity Engai. This spiritual dimension gives the mountain not only cultural but also religious importance. Combined with its rare geological features, the name underscores why Ol Doinyo Lengai is both a revered pilgrimage site and a world-class climbing destination.
Location and Height of Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is located in northern Tanzania, south of Lake Natron in the East African Rift Valley. It rises dramatically to an elevation of 2,962 meters (9,711 feet), making it one of Tanzania’s most iconic volcanic peaks. Its steep cone and remote position offer adventurous trekkers panoramic views of the Rift Valley, Ngorongoro Highlands, and Mount Kilimanjaro on clear days, creating a challenging but rewarding climbing experience.
Uniqueness of Ol Doinyo Lengai
Ol Doinyo Lengai is the only active volcano in the world that erupts natrocarbonatite lava. This lava is rare, cools at lower temperatures, and turns white quickly when exposed to air, giving the summit a striking lunar-like appearance. Its unique geology, combined with its status as a sacred Maasai mountain, makes it unlike any other trekking destination in Africa where science, adventure, and cultural significance converge in one remarkable location.
Lava Temperature and Characteristics
Ol Doinyo Lengai’s lava is the coolest in the world, erupting at about 500–600°C, far below the 1,100°C of typical basaltic lava. The lava is black and oily when it flows, but rapidly crystallizes into pale, powdery deposits as it reacts with moisture. This unusual chemical composition fascinates scientists and offers climbers a chance to witness one of Earth’s rarest volcanic processes firsthand, adding to Lengai’s global significance.
Yes, Ol Doinyo Lengai is highly active
Yes, Ol Doinyo Lengai remains highly active. Historical records date eruptions back to the 19th century, with significant activity in 2007–2008 when ash reached as far as Arusha. Smaller eruptions and carbonatite lava flows have continued intermittently, with activity noted as recently as the 2020s. This ongoing volcanic activity makes the mountain both dangerous and scientifically valuable, offering climbers and researchers an extraordinary opportunity to observe a living volcano.
Difficulty of Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai
Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai is possible, but it is physically demanding due to steep inclines, loose ash, and scorching daytime heat. The trek typically begins at midnight to avoid extreme temperatures, with most climbers reaching the summit at sunrise. While no technical climbing equipment is required, excellent fitness, stamina, and preparation are essential. The reward is an unforgettable sunrise view and the thrill of conquering the Mountain of God.
Duration of the Climb
The trek up Ol Doinyo Lengai generally takes 8 to 12 hours roundtrip. Climbers usually start at night, reaching the summit around sunrise before descending in daylight. The route covers about 10.5 kilometers (6.5 miles) with a steep elevation gain of nearly 1,900 meters. Despite being a single-day climb, the ascent is intense, requiring strong endurance. Proper pacing, hydration, and a knowledgeable local guide are crucial for safety and success.
Best Season to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai
The best time to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai is during the dry seasons: June to October and January to February. During these months, trails are drier and conditions safer for steep ascents. Climbing in the rainy seasons (March–May and November–December) is riskier due to slippery slopes and reduced visibility. Clear skies in the dry months also maximize the chance of stunning sunrise views over Lake Natron and the Rift Valley.
Accommodation and Trekking Support
There are no permanent huts or camps on Ol Doinyo Lengai. Climbers usually base themselves in Engaresero village, where basic campsites and rustic lodges are available. Lake Natron camps also serve as staging points. Treks are organized with local guides and porters, providing logistical support and ensuring safety. While the mountain itself offers no amenities, nearby accommodations make the adventure accessible, combining wilderness trekking with Maasai cultural encounters.
Safety and Risks of the Trek
Climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai involves risks such as steep terrain, loose volcanic ash, dehydration, and extreme heat. Although altitude sickness is minimal compared to Kilimanjaro, the climb is grueling. Volcanic activity is also unpredictable, with carbonatite lava flows occasionally visible near the summit. Safety improves with professional guides, adequate water, and nighttime starts. With preparation and caution, most climbers successfully summit, experiencing both danger and awe in one journey.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to Oldoinyo Lengai trek
This package is usually combined with one of the below. We can also tailor a custom itinerary combining any of our packages for you.
Ngorongoro Highlands
Climb Kilimanjaro
Waterfall & Coffee day trip
Climb Meru
Wildlife Safari
Beach holiday
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Excellent rating
Based on 347 reviews
My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
(Translated by Google, see original)
Nils Bindauf14 September 2026Verified
Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 20267-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
(Translated by Google, see original)Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!Justine A25 July 2026Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026
