Within the hot, sandy, tornado swept plains of the Gregory rift stands one of Tanzania’s hidden gems: Ol Doniyo Lengai (ol Don-e-yo Len-Ga-iy).
The name ‘Ol Doniyo Lengai’ comes from the language of the Maasai, and roughly translates to ‘Mountain of God’ – which is a very apt name for this impressive monolith of rock and volcanic ash. The volcano stands at 3188m high just shy of Lake Natron’s southern tip and can easily be seen from the shoreline, therefore, the volcano is a huge feature of any adventure around the Lake Natron area.
So what makes going to view Ol Doinyo Lengai so interesting? Well, other than the fact that you will be standing at the foot of an active volcano, Ol Doniyo Lengai is unique. Even for Volcanos.
First of all – the volcano is considered a religious site for the Maasai. The Maasai are a nomadic tribe who are made famous by their traditional dress, nomadic lifestyle and their athletic abilities. The tribe travel throughout almost the whole of Northern Tanzania and into Southern Kenya, and have called the (now) conservation area their home for thousands of years. The Massai believe that their god lives inside the mountain. On occasion when the tribes-people are facing hard times, such as drought, disease or disputes, a group will travel to the peak and partake in religious rituals. The rituals can include dancing, singing and animal sacrifice.
The mountains ‘speaks’ too. If you are close enough, you can hear the bubbling, hissing and moving of the volcanic activity – even at the foot.
Scientifically, Ol Doinyo Lengai is also very special. Unlike any other volcano in the world, the lava from the mountain flows black in the sunlight – rather than glowing red. This is entirely down to the rare occurrence of Natrocarbonatites. Where most other Lava deposits contain silicate minerals, Natrocarbonatite lava contains sodium, potassium, nyerereite and gregoryite.
The mineral contents cause the lava to erupt at relatively low temperatures -between 500 and 600 degrees C ( 930 – 1100 degrees F).
At the top of the mountain, it is clear to see the volcanic deposit seeping down the side of the mountain. The lava appears white, grey as it cools and breaks down very quickly. The volcanic dust is then blown from the top, across the whole landscape. Thus making miles around some of the most fertile, and interesting landscapes on earth.
The Ol Doniyo Lengai Hike
The universe favours the brave. Yes, it is true. You are able to travel to and hike up the mountain if you have the stomach for it. While it is still an active volcano, it is possible to travel to the top – at your own risk of course.
There are multiple ways you can do this – either by contacting a local guide – or speaking to a local Maasai guide. The Ol Doniyo Lengai hike is potentially one of the most impressive, once in a lifetime, experiences that are available in Tanzania (there are many life-changing experiences here). Not only will you be able to say that you’ve stood on the top of an active volcano, but you will be able to survey the spectacular views of the Ngorongoro highlands, rift valley and finally across the stunning Lake Natron, and into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.
This is a view very few people have enjoyed – and unforgettable for those who have been lucky enough.
