Empakai Crater to Lake Natron Trek
A 3-day guided Empakai walking safari from the lush Ngorongoro Highlands to the salt flats of Lake Natron — volcanoes, Maasai culture and the raw power of the Rift Valley.
Step Off the Beaten Path With Empakai Walking
Step off the beaten safari path and into the heart of Maasailand. Empakai walking is at its best on the crater-to-Lake-Natron trek, a spectacular walking safari through one of Tanzania’s most geologically and culturally rich landscapes.
This 3-day guided trek connects the lush highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the dramatic salt flats of Lake Natron, with unmatched natural beauty, wildlife encounters and immersive cultural experiences with the Maasai people.
It is not just a trek — it is a story of ancient lands, active volcanoes, sacred traditions and the raw power of East Africa’s Rift Valley.
In short, this 3-day trek is a walking safari from the Ngorongoro Highlands to Lake Natron. First, you start at Empakai. Then you walk through Maasai country and see volcanoes on the way. Also, the two walking days are about 16 km and 20 km long.
Because you stay two nights in a camp or lodge, you have time to enjoy the scenery. The best months are June to October and December to March. After that, you can read the day-by-day plan on this page. Finally, we can adapt the trek to your dates.
See what past travelers say about us on SafariBookings, TripAdvisor and Google reviews, or read our customer reviews page. To plan your trip, see our Kilimanjaro trekking, Mount Meru trekking and safari packages.
What Makes Empakai Walking Special
Empakai Crater
A lesser-known volcanic gem with steep forested walls and a shallow soda lake, home to flamingos and many bird species. Trek the rim or descend into the crater.
Naiyobi Village
A remote Maasai village on the edge of the highlands. Meet local families and see how the Maasai live in harmony with this rugged land.
Lake Natron
Sunrise on the shores of the soda lake, flamingos, unique geology and an optional hike to the Ngare Sero waterfalls.
Empakai Walking Day by Day
Empakai Crater to Lake Natron Trek
Empakai Crater Rim – Naiyobi – Acacia Camp
- Begin with panoramic views from Empakai Crater Rim.
- Optional: descend into the crater and explore its forest and soda lake.
- Trek through remote Maasai villages with cultural interactions.
- Overnight at Acacia Camp under the stars.
Acacia Camp – Rift Valley Escarpment – Engaresero (Lake Natron)
- Descend into the Rift Valley with views of Ol Doinyo Lengai.
- Cross volcanic landscapes and arid plains.
- Reach Lake Natron and settle into a local eco-lodge or camp.
Lake Natron Exploration
- Sunrise visit to the shores of Lake Natron to see flamingos and unique geology.
- Optional hike to Ngare Sero Waterfalls through a stunning gorge.
- Enjoy cultural insights with the Maasai or relax at the lodge.
- Transfer to Arusha or continue your safari.
What’s Included in Empakai Walking
Included
- Professional local guide & Maasai trekking team
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Camping equipment & support (where applicable)
- 2 nights accommodation (camp/lodge)
- Park fees & crater entry permits
- Donkey/vehicle support for luggage
- Drinking water & purified supplies
- Transfers to/from starting and ending points
Not Included
- Climb of Ol Doinyo Lengai (available at extra cost)
- Personal trekking gear (boots, backpack, etc.)
- Travel insurance & personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities for guides and crew
Best Time for Empakai Walking
June to October
Dry season with clear skies and easier trekking.
December to March
Warmer, with occasional rain but fewer crowds.
On the Trail
Our Travel Resources & Information
Ready to Walk Through Maasailand?
Tell us your dates and we will arrange guides, permits, camps and transfers for the Empakai to Natron trek.
Plan Your Empakai to Natron Trek
Tell us your travel dates and preferences, and our team will reply with a tailored plan and quote.
