Discover Mount Oldoinyo Lengai
Oldoinyo Lengai, “The Mountain of God” in the Maasai language — Tanzania’s only active volcano and a sacred peak, with direct views into a smoking caldera.
Oldoinyo Lengai: A Sacred, Active Volcano
Ol’doinyo Lengai (also spelled Oldoinyo Lengai) means “The Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. Its summit, 2,962 metres above sea level, gives direct views into the caldera of Tanzania’s only officially certified active volcano — and the world’s only carbonatite volcano. Eruptions have been recorded since 1883, the largest depositing ash 120 kilometres away near Arusha and 100 kilometres away in Loliondo.
It lies in northern Tanzania, just south of the soda-ash Lake Natron in the Rift Valley, in the heart of Maasai country and regarded locally as a sacred mountain. From the crater, hot salt flats stretch north towards Lake Natron, the Crater Highlands and Ngorongoro lie to the south, and Kilimanjaro dominates the eastern horizon.
In short, Ol’doinyo Lengai is the Mountain of God in the Maasai language. First, it is Tanzania’s only officially certified active volcano. Then you climb to a summit of 2,962 metres. Also, the summit climb takes six to seven hours.
Because the mountain lies south of Lake Natron, the views are wide. From the crater, you see salt flats to the north and Kilimanjaro on the eastern horizon. Also, Maasai people regard the mountain as sacred. Finally, we can plan the trek for 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 to Expect on the Oldoinyo Lengai Ascent
A demanding climb that rewards you with a sunrise summit.
Pre-Dawn Start
Most climbers start early in the morning to reach the summit at sunrise. The climb takes about six to seven hours to the crater.
Demanding Terrain
Daytime heat, little water, and steep slopes of ash and crumbly rock with considerable height gain make this a demanding ascent.
What to Wear
Shorts or long trousers and a warm jacket are suitable — the summit can be cold before dawn.
Early Descent
The north-west access route allows an early descent from the summit in the morning shadow.
Walk the Oldoinyo Lengai Crater
It is possible to walk across the crater floor and see the cone-like structures formed by frequent minor eruptions.
Wildlife Along the Oldoinyo Lengai Trail
With Maasai guides escorting you, you may see olive baboon, vervet monkey, monitor lizard, hyena, lion, leopard, jackal, Grant’s gazelle, impala and zebra.
Oldoinyo Lengai: Sacred to the Maasai
For generations the mountain has been used by the Maasai to pray to their god, Ngai. The nearby Maasai bomas give you a chance to meet local families and learn about their culture, taboos and traditions.
Maasai Guides
Walk with local guides who know the mountain and its stories.
Maasai Bomas
Visit nearby villages and interact with the community.
Natrocarbonatite Lava
The only volcano in the world to erupt this rare, cooler lava.
Tailored Experiences Around Oldoinyo Lengai
Utukufu Travels — tailored for climbing and trekking, cultural visits and waterfall exploration.
Climbing / Trekking
Challenge yourself with thrilling treks across dramatic landscapes, from the sacred slopes of Lengai to the rugged trails around Lake Natron.
Cultural Visits
Genuine, respectful interactions with the Maasai, Datoga and other local communities.
Waterfalls
Discover hidden waterfalls tucked away in lush valleys and ancient volcanic terrain.
Find Oldoinyo Lengai
Glimpses of the Oldoinyo Lengai Expedition
Experience the soul of Tanzania through our lens — where adventure meets purpose, and every step tells a story.
Our Travel Resources & Information
Ready to Climb Oldoinyo Lengai, the Mountain of God?
Tell us your dates and we will arrange guides, permits and logistics for a safe, unforgettable Lengai expedition.
Plan Your Oldoinyo Lengai Trek
Tell us your travel dates and preferences, and our team will reply with a tailored plan and quote.
