If you’re serious about trekking, and you prioritize unique geography over frequent animal sightings, the Mt. Oldonyo Lengai trekking trips are not to be missed. The name Oldonyo Lengai translates from the native Maasai tongue to “The Mountain of God” and it is actually a place of spiritual importance to the locals historically. If you’re serious about trekking, and you prioritize unique geography over frequent animal sightings, the Mt. Oldonyo Lengai trekking trips are not to be missed. The name Oldonyo Lengai translates from the native Maasai tongue to “The Mountain of God” and it is actually a place of spiritual importance to the locals historically.

The region offers landscapes and landforms that can best be described as jaw dropping and other worldly. From planes and slopes covered in volcanic ash to interesting vegetation and shrubbery, the area has a lot to offer. The mountain is actually recognized as one of the most fascinating volcanoes on the planet! Though there are other parks and reserves in Tanzania with higher animal populations, the Oldonyo Lengai area also offers ample opportunity for rare animal sighting and safari.

Depending on the time of the year, the region can be anything from barren to those covered with vegetation. The crater of the mountain can also be walked across. Those hoping to catch a glimpse of some live volcanic activity may also do so as some of the mounds within the crater experience small and harmless eruptions from time to time.

The volcano itself is located southbound from what is called Lake Natron, centrally located in Maasai country. If you look in the North while standing on the crater, what is visible is the Nogorongoro Highlands and game reserve.

Though there is little to no vegetation present within and around the crater itself, most walking safaris and trekking journeys will offer you the chance to soak in some animal life and greenery. The ash on the mountain slopes due to its cover can sometimes resemble moon dust or snow!

It’s that you won’t get to see animals on your Mt Oldonyo trek. Though the trek is best suited to those with an eye for the amazing or a fondness of volcanoes and geography, animals such as zebras, hyenas and rare baboons are not uncommon.

The area also has a healthy variety of birdlife.

One of the things you might need to remember is that unlike other trekking and walking safari trips, the Mt Oldonyo Lengai climb can take about six hours. Further, day trips during the hotter months are next to impossible due to the scorching heat.

For this reason, most climbs and trekking trips begin at midnight or in the early hours of the morning well before the sun comes up. It is important to equip yourself with torches and other night trekking gear. In most cases, your tour company will provide you with the same.

If you have any questions about trekking in Oldonyo Lengai feel free to connect with us.