Lake Natron

Lake Natron is one of East Africa's most otherworldly landscapes - a harsh, alkaline lake that appears almost Martian with its red and orange hues. The caustic waters (pH up to 10.5) support unique extremophile organisms that give the lake its distinctive colors and make it inhospitable to most life - but perfect for flamingos. This is the only regular breeding site for East Africa's 2.5 million lesser flamingos. When conditions are right (usually every 3-4 years), the birds gather in massive numbers to nest on the alkaline flats. Even outside breeding season, flamingos are present and the surreal landscape alone is worth the journey. Beyond flamingos, Lake Natron offers adventures including climbing Ol Doinyo Lengai ("Mountain of God") - an active volcano sacred to the Maasai with uniquely cool carbonatite lava. The Engare Sero waterfall hike and visits to authentic Maasai villages complete an experience far from the typical safari trail.