Located at the base of the active Ol Donyo Lengai volcano, Lake Natron is often described as having a desolate, almost lunar beauty. Situated in northern Tanzania, it is closest to the towns of Arusha in Tanzania and Magadi in Kenya. Lake Natron is the world’s most crucial breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos.

East Africa is home to between 1.5 and 2.5 million Lesser Flamingos, accounting for approximately three-quarters of the global population, with the majority of these birds hatched at Lake Natron. The lake provides ample food, abundant nesting sites, and, crucially, isolation from disturbance. The lake and its surrounding ecosystem also offer vital resources and support livelihoods for local communities.

High evaporation rates at Lake Natron have resulted in the accumulation of natron (sodium carbonate decahydrate) and trona (sodium sesquicarbonate dihydrate). The lake’s alkalinity can reach a pH greater than 12. The surrounding bedrock consists of alkaline, sodium-rich trachyte lavas from the Pleistocene epoch, which are high in carbonates but low in calcium and magnesium. This composition allows the lake to develop into a highly caustic alkaline brine.

Exploring the area around the lake, including the streams and waterfalls on the nearby escarpment, offers a thrilling adventure off the beaten path.

Several campgrounds are located near the lake, which also serves as a base for climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai.