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Lake Natron
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Lake Natron in northern Tanzania is one of the most inhospitable yet fascinating places on Earth. This shallow salt lake is located in the Gregory Rift and is known for its extreme alkalinity, with pH values exceeding 10.5, nearly that of ammonia. The characteristic red color of the water comes from haloarchaea, microorganisms that thrive in the extreme salt concentration. Despite the hostile conditions, where water temperatures can reach up to 60 degrees Celsius, the lake is the world's most important breeding ground for the lesser flamingo. Over 75 percent of the global population of these birds hatch here, as the dangerous conditions keep predators away. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai, whose ash-rich eruptions contribute to the lake's chemical composition.
- Location: Tanzania
- Nearby: Empakaai Crater (44 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 63 | 47 | 80 | 108 | 60 | 9 | 4 | 8 | 11 | 41 | 83 | 85 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The rugged journey absolutely requires a sturdy 4x4 vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide, navigating deeply rutted, remote, and dusty unpaved tracks from Arusha.
Best season
The dry season, typically running from June to October, is paramount as the extremely rough roads become nearly impassable treacherous mud during the heavy rains.
Terrain & paths
The harsh surrounding landscape presents a truly unforgiving mix of abrasive volcanic rock, loose dry sand, and crusty, highly alkaline flats nearing the water.
What to bring
Thick-soled, closed walking boots are critical. Extremely strong sun protection, a wide-brimmed hat, and an exceedingly large supply of drinking water are vital.
Parking
Vehicles are almost always parked entirely off-road in designated clearings near the sparse local tented camps or recognized safe viewpoint stops with a local guide.
Safety
The lake's highly corrosive, deeply alkaline water can cause severe, instant chemical burns; visitors must never attempt to touch the water or swim under any circumstances.
Time needed
Given the exhausting travel time, visits are typically woven into a grueling multi-day safari itinerary, with guests usually spending just a few awestruck hours at the shores.
Geography
Facts
- The pH value of the lake can reach as high as 12.
- Water temperatures rise up to 60 °C on hot days.
- Approximately 2.5 million lesser flamingos use the lake as a breeding site.
- The red color is caused by specific cyanobacteria and haloarchaea.
- The lake is at most 3 meters deep, depending on evaporation rates.
- Magma from nearby Ol Doinyo Lengai is rich in sodium carbonate.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lake Natron so red?
This is due to special salt-loving microorganisms in the water.
Can flamingos live here?
Yes, the lake is a globally significant breeding ground for lesser flamingos.
Can one swim in the lake?
No, the extremely alkaline water is dangerous and caustic.
How is the access to the lake?
Only with authorized guides so as not to disturb the flamingos.
What is the best season?
In the dry season, flamingos retreat to the banks to breed.
Lake Natron: where is it located?
Lake Natron is located in Tanzania.
Lake Natron: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lake Natron: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Natron in northern Tanzania is one of the most inhospitable yet fascinating places on Earth.
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Uhuru Monument
A significant monument celebrating Tanzania's independence in the heart of Dar es Salaam.
Aga Khan Hospital
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Azania Front Lutheran Church
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Dar es Salaam Central Railway Station
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Bank of Tanzania Headquarters
Two prominent glass towers in Dar es Salaam housing the country's central bank.
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Mount Meru
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Kilimanjaro Farmland
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