Discover Lake Natron Conservation Area
Lake Natron Conservation Area is located in nothern Tanzania near the Kenyan border and to the north east of Ngorongoro crater. The lake is 56 kilometers long and 22 kilometers wide. The lake is fed by the southern Ewaso Ng’iro River and hot springs. It however doesn’t have an outlet this leads its evaporation levels being very high. This leaves two carbonates behind known as natron and trona. The lake being famous for its extreme alkaline levels due to the high concentration of natron which makes it one of the deadliest lakes on the planet. The lake is characterized by vivid red and pink hues due to the high concentration of salt and microorganisms.
However, the lake is a breeding ground for millions of lesser flamingos. With 75% of the world’s lesser flamingos born at this lake. They lay their eggs between August and October and the eggs hatch in November during the wet season. The conservation area is also home to kudus, zebras, ostriches, golden jackal, gerenuks and oryxs. Tens of thousands of other birds can be spotted near the lake, making the lake a prime destination for bird lovers.
Key attractions in Lake Natron:
- Lesser Flamingos – With the lake hosting about 75% of the worlds lesser flamingos population, it is considered one of the most important breeding sites.
- Alkaline Waters – High alkaline levels in the water supports some unique microorganisms that cause the lakes colour change.
- Ol Doinyo Lengai – The Maasai refer to it as the mountain of God. This active volcano has some challenging treks that have amazing rewarding views.
- Ngare Sero Waterfalls – A spot that has beautiful waterfalls that provide spots for hiking as well as swimming.
Visit Lake Natron Conservation Area
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Lake Natron Conservation Area Entry Fees
Entry Fees into Lake Natron Conservation Area:
| Non-Residents | Residents | Citizens |
| USD $35 | USD $20 | TZS 10,000 |
Camping Fees: Additional fees may apply if you choose to camp within the area.
Best Time to Visit Lake Natron Conservation Area
- Dry Season (June to October): Best time for wildlife viewing, which includes the sight of flamingos, and for hiking around the area. The weather is generally dry and clear, making it ideal for outdoor activities. During this season, there is a higher level of evaporation which increases the salinity of the lake. This increase causes cyanobacteria to multiply at a faster rate, which gives the lake a richer shade of pink.
- Wet Season (November to May): Birdwatching is excellent due to the presence of migratory birds.
Low Season
November to May
- This is the wet season, with the heaviest rains typically falling from March to May. Birdwatching is excellent, especially from November to February, when migratory birds join the resident species.
High Season
December to February
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- This is part of the wet season but experiences less rains. It’s a good time for those seeking fewer crowds.
Peak Season
June to October
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- This is the dry season, best time for trekking and photography as the trails are accessible and flamingos are often present.
How to Get to Lake Natron Conservation Area
By Road:
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- From Arusha: Lake Natron is approximately a 4 to 5 hour drive from Arusha. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the wet season.
- From Nairobi: It is about a 7 to 8 hour drive from Nairobi, crossing the border at Namanga.
By Air:
- Charter flights are available to nearby airstrips such as the Lake Manyara airstrip or the Loliondo airstrip, followed by a drive to Lake Natron.
Best Places to Stay at Lake Natron Conservation Area
Safari Packages to Lake Natron Conservation Area
Other National Parks to visit
Find other national parks related to Lake Natron Conservation Area that you either combined your safari with or get inspired to book them later on in your next adventures. The destinations are some of the best that you can visit that are close to Lake Natron Conservation Area.
