3-Day Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb
Overview
The 3-Day Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb is a thrilling adventure for travelers seeking a unique and challenging experience in Northern Tanzania. Known as the Mountain of God, Ol Doinyo Lengai is the world’s only active carbonatite volcano, offering climbers the rare opportunity to witness glowing lava at the summit and enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over the Great Rift Valley.
This journey combines adventure, nature, and culture. You will trek through dramatic landscapes, semi-desert plains, and lush riverine forests, explore hidden waterfalls, and witness diverse wildlife along the way. The climb is complemented by a cultural visit to a Maasai boma and a guided walk around Lake Natron, one of East Africa’s key flamingo breeding sites. With expert guides, comfortable campsites, and personalized support from Lehi Tanzania Safaris, this 3-day climb promises a memorable and rewarding adventure that blends physical challenge with natural and cultural beauty.
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1: Journey Through the Great Rift Valley & Night Ascent Preparation
After an early breakfast, depart Arusha or Moshi and travel toward Mto wa Mbu, descending into the dramatic Great Rift Valley. The drive takes you through the Engaruka Basin and into a striking semi-desert landscape—hot, wild, and remote—surrounded by extinct volcanoes such as Mount Kitumbeine and Mount Gelai, with the sacred Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the Mountain of God, rising steadily ahead.
Around midday, arrive at your camp beside the Engaresero River, where lunch is served. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk to the hidden Engaresero Waterfalls, tucked beneath the western wall of the Rift Valley. Later, return to Kamakia Campsite for dinner and a short rest. After a few hours of sleep, you will be transferred close to the mountain around midnight to begin your night ascent of Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, a challenging climb that takes approximately 4 hours. Reaching the summit before dawn, you may witness the rare and unforgettable sight of glowing lava within the crater.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Sunrise at the Summit & Rest at Lake Natron
At the summit, take time to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the Great Rift Valley, with sweeping views stretching toward Kenya on clear mornings. Afterward, begin your descent and return to the campsite for a refreshing shower and a late breakfast.
The rest of the day is dedicated to relaxation and recovery after the climb. You may enjoy light walks around the area at your own pace in the late afternoon. In the evening, return to Kamakia Campsite for dinner and overnight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Lake Natron Walk, Maasai Cultural Experience & Return to Arusha
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walk around Lake Natron, one of the most important flamingo breeding grounds in East Africa. Accompanied by a local guide, you will learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem and its role in wildlife conservation.
Later, visit a traditional Maasai boma, where you will interact with the Maasai community, gaining insight into their culture, daily life, and traditions. After the cultural experience, return to the campsite for a hot lunch before beginning your drive back to Arusha or Moshi. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may be transferred to your hotel, lodge, or Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Inclusions & Exclusion
- Porterage
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinking water (On all days)
- Rescue fee
- Climbing gear
- International flights (From/to home)
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips for crew members
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
3-Day Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai Climb
Budget
2 pax
$2,182 USD*
4 pax
$1,582USD*
6 pax
$1,582USD*
Mid-Range
2 pax
$2,288 USD*
4 pax
$1,780 USD*
6 pax
$1,550 USD*
Ready to Book Your Mount Climb?
Reserve your spot today or let us tailor the experience to your travel dates and preferences.
Frequently Ask Questions
What currency should I bring?
We would recommend bringing USD (United States Dollars) with you and withdrawing some Tanzanian Shillings once you arrive. There are ATMs in Arusha/JRO Airport. Most places that you will visit accept USD but it’s always good idea to have local currency.
What vaccinations do I need?
You will require vaccinations for your trip. All travellers should visit either their personal physician or a travel health clinic about 3 months before departure. Ask your doctor about vaccinations recommended by your government before travelling to Tanzania. Yellow Fever Vaccination is compulsory and to be taken at least 10 days before arriving in Tanzania. The other recommended vaccinations are Tetanus, Polio and, Malaria (prophylaxis).
Which airport should I fly to?
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is approximately 60km (60 min) from Arusha city centre. Kilimanjaro International Airport is the closest International Airport to Arusha.
Arusha Municipal Airport (ARK) is on the outskirts of Arusha but only operates domestic flights (Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Serengeti).
Other options include flying to Dar es Salaam and then catching a domestic flight to Kilimanjaro or Arusha. You can also fly to Nairobi (Kenya). International flights to this destination are often cheaper. You can then fly from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro or take a bus from Nairobi Airport to Arusha (approximately 7 hours).
How can I pay the balance for my Climb and Safari?
What gear should I bring for Safari and Kilimanjaro?
Waterproof, windproof, breathable pants and jacket with hood Goretex is excellent. packs (like Camelbaks) also work well, although the hose can freeze on the summit climb. Headlamp with extra batteries You might also consider a backup flashlight in case your headlamp fails.
Kilimanjaro and Safaris Packing List You can hire the required gear on the spot when you arrive in Tanzania.
Should I bring a First aid kit?
There will be basic First Aid Kit in the Safari Vehicle, also we have it for the Kilimanjaro climbing, but still we recommend bringing a personal First Aid Kit. This is a suggested list of supplies: Sun Screen, Antihistamine cream & tablets,
What is the weather like in Tanzania?
The weather varies greatly, depending on where you are. Whatever time of year you come, please bring some warm clothes! It gets really cold in some places because of the high altitude, especially in June, July and August. It can also get very hot during afternoon. We advise dressing in layers. Typically, the long rains are March, April, and May. The short rains are in November / early December.
Can I visit a Maasai village after Kilimanjaro?
It is possible to visit one of several Maasai villages during your safari. However, these villages are close to the main roads and whilst you will meet many Maasai, have a tour around their village and have an opportunity to learn about their culture, some clients have given the feedback that the experience felt a little uncomfortable. It costs $25 per person and during the visit, you will be encouraged to buy some of their jewellery/craft (this is by no means compulsory). It is inevitable that over time, the experience has become less authentic and we are in the process of sourcing alternative options for our clients. You are very welcome to visit, but we wanted to be open and transparent about the kind of experience you can currently expect.
How much is the Tipping for Supporting Teams??
Tipping is highly expected in Tanzania. There is a well- established culture of tipping.
Guides: If you feel you have received good service, a typical tip is U$D 10-15 per person, per day. The guides work extremely long hours and tips supplement their income significantly. Anything you can afford is appreciated.
Tipping in accommodation is also discretionary. Most accommodation will have a tip box in Reception. We would recommend putting something in at the end of your stay, rather than giving individuals money. Depending on the level of service, we recommend $10 per day (for a group of 2).
How many crew staffs for the Kilimanjaro climb?
The crews for one person for Kilimanjaro climbing include:
=> 1 Guide
=> 1 Chef Cook
=> 1 Waiter
=> 1 Toilet Porters
=> 4 Supporting Porters