LAKE NATRON

Home to millions of flamingos

Lake Natroon is a salt and soda lake in northern Tanzania and another amazing destination in the region. It is located at the foot of the volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai and covers an area of around 60 square kilometers. The lake is known for its toxic composition of calcium carbonate and salt derived from the ash of the nearby volcano, making it inhospitable to most life forms. Swimming in the lake is not possible.

Nevertheless, it is home to a unique ecosystem that includes a variety of microorganisms, algae and salt-tolerant plants, as well as several species of fish and birds such as dwarf flamingos and colonies of pelicans. The lake is known for its bright red color, which is caused by the high concentration of algae and other microorganisms in the water.

The color of Lake Natron shifts dramatically throughout the year, ranging from soft pale pinks to intense deep reds, depending on the season, weather conditions, and time of day. This remarkable coloration is primarily caused by the lake’s high salt and mineral content, along with the presence of specialized microorganisms and algae. These unique elements also contribute to the pinkish hue of the flamingos’ feathers, which nest in vast numbers along the lake’s shores. Lake Natron is considered one of the most important breeding sites for lesser flamingos in the world. The dramatic volcanic terrain, shaped by ancient lava flows and the looming Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, adds to its mystical atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy guided walks along the lake, soak in hot springs, and photograph the vivid, unforgettable landscape.

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