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Lake Natron
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Lake Natron Overview

Lake Natron is a soda lake located in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border. With surface temperatures that can reach 60°C (140°F), it is one of the hottest lakes on Earth. The high temperatures are caused by high evaporation rates due to the arid climate. The lake’s high alkalinity is also due to the sodium carbonate and other minerals that are washed into the lake from surrounding mineral-rich springs and volcanic rock.

The unique environment of Lake Natron gives it a reddish-pink hue from the pigments of haloarchaea microorganisms that thrive in its warm, salty waters. These extremophile organisms are capable of surviving the salty, hot conditions that would be uninhabitable for most other life forms. The lake’s caustic environment combined with its heat makes it inhospitable to most animals, giving it an eerie, still quality with temperatures too hot for birds to walk in it and fish unable to survive in its waters.

Despite its harsh environment, Lake Natron is considered a wetland of ecological importance by conservationists because it is a breeding ground for 2.5 million flamingos, including the lesser flamingo, whose status of “near threatened” means it is vulnerable to extinction. The lake produces the ideal alkaline breeding environment that flamingos need to nest and is the most significant breeding ground for these birds in East Africa. While the high temperatures of the lake seem deadly, they produce just the right conditions for the blue-green algae, brine shrimp, and other organisms that flamingos feed on.

Why visit Lake Natron?

Lake Natron offers stunning scenery, rare wildlife, ecological uniqueness, and the chance to visit a remote and extreme location – all good reasons for an adventurous traveler to pay a visit.

To observe flamingos

Lake Natron is a major breeding ground for flamingos in East Africa, particularly the Lesser Flamingo.

Geological interest

The lake is located in the East African Rift valley, a region of tectonic activity and volcanic features. There is interesting geology around the lake to take in.
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See the stunning pink coloration

The high levels of soda and salt give the lake a bright reddish-pink hue due to the pigments of the algae and bacteria that thrive there.

For the adventure

Getting to Lake Natron requires some effort, as it is remote. The difficulty in access adds to the sense of adventure and discovery.

How to get there?

The last stretch to the lake will be challenging but the dramatic views and scenery make it worthwhile. A visit to Lake Natron requires careful trip planning and transport arrangements due to its isolated location. Here is the most detailed information if you are looking for the best way to reach Lake Natron.

By Vehicle

  • From Arusha, take the paved road towards Namanga and the Kenya border. Then turn off towards Mto Wa Mbu and continue driving past Engare Sero village.
  • Once past Engare Sero, the road becomes rough gravel. You will need a 4×4 vehicle with good clearance as there are often wet and muddy conditions.
  • After Loliondo, head west until reaching the small town of Lake Natron. From here continue driving northwest to reach the lakeshore.
  • The drive will take around 5-6 hours from Arusha depending on road conditions. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and have supplies.
  • Hiring a jeep in Arusha may be a good option if you do not already have an appropriate 4×4 vehicle.

By Air

  • The closest airport is Arusha Airport in Arusha, Tanzania. This receives regular flights from major cities in East Africa as well as international connections.

  • From Arusha Airport, you can charter a small plane to one of the remote airstrips nearer to Lake Natron such as Lake Natron Airstrip or Gelai Airstrip. The flight will take around 1-1.5 hours.

  • Hiring a charter flight directly to Lake Natron will be the quickest way to get there, though also the most expensive.

Things to do

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Lake Natron red?

The reddish hue of Lake Natron comes from the pigments of salt-loving microorganisms called haloarchaea that live in the warm, salty, and alkaline waters. The pigment helps protect them from the intense sunlight.

Is Lake Natron really boiling?

The water temperatures can reach as high as 60°C (140°F) in some areas due to the extreme heat and rate of evaporation. However, the lake doesn’t actually boil since it’s at a low elevation. The combination of heat and alkalinity can create a hot tub-like effect in parts.

Can you swim in Lake Natron?

Swimming is generally not recommended or allowed due to the risky temperatures and alkalinity which can burn the skin and eyes. However, some do take brief dips for the experience.

Why do flamingos breed at Lake Natron?

The alkaline waters of Lake Natron provide the ideal breeding environment for flamingos who need caustic wetlands to breed. The lake produces the blue-green algae, brine shrimp and other organisms that flamingo chicks feed on.

Is Lake Natron endangered?

While a protected area, Lake Natron is threatened by proposed development like dams and factories that could upset the delicate breeding ecosystem. Climate change and pollution also pose threats to this fragile rift valley lake.

Can you visit Lake Natron?

Yes, Lake Natron can be visited, but it requires a multi-day 4×4 safari or chartered flight to reach its remote location in northern Tanzania. Facilities are very basic, so most visitors camp along the lake shore. Advance booking with a tour operator is recommended.

What is the best time to visit Lake Natron?

The ideal time is during the flamingo breeding season from July to November when the huge flocks congregate. But weather is good for visiting year-round. Early morning and evening are the best viewing times.

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