Lake Natron is one of the most captivating lakes in Tanzania. The lake is less than three meters deep, 57 kilometers long, 22 kilometers wide, and has a surface area of about 1254 square kilometers. It is a perfect place to obtain different experiences after visiting Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, or any other wildlife destination in the northern circuit.
Where is Lake Natron located?
It is located in Arusha, at the border between Tanzania and Kenya. The lake is located in the Gregory Rift, the Eastern Branch of the East African Rift Valley, at the foot of Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano.
Getting to Lake Natron
Lake Natron is about 193 kilometers northwest of Arusha city. Drive from Arusha through the main road running to Manyara and then to Engaruka. You can also drive from Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater.
The name “Natron”
If you’re wondering where the name “Natron” might have come from, worry not. It is not from a local language; it is science. Natron is a salt called sodium bicarbonate that is abundant in the waters of Lake Natron. It is usually found in the dried beds of the lake.
What is Lake Natron famous for?
The most exciting thing about Lake Natron is its stunning red coloration. The red color brings a wonderful appearance to an aerial view. The cause of such a red color is its alkalinity, with a pH rising extremely above 12. This extreme alkaline environment favors various microorganisms, such as haloarchaea, which exhibit red pigmentation when high in concentration. Other microorganisms that thrive in such hostile environments are cyanobacteria.
The lake is the breeding site of over 2.4 million flamingos. Approximately 70% of the world population of lesser flamingos breeds on the shores of this lake. Visitors are obsessed with the concentration of lesser flamingos, especially between September and March.
The lake is also known as “the deadly red lake” in the world. Its saline and alkaline environment makes it difficult for animals and humans to survive.
What causes the extreme alkalinity of Lake Natron?
The volcanic activity at Ol Doinyo Lengai accounts for the extreme alkalinity of the lake waters. This active volcano emits carbonatite lava, the rare type of lava in the world, which is rich in sodium and potassium carbonates. This lava was washed down into the lake after it turned into ashes and debris.
As water evaporated from time to time, the alkalinity increased in concentration. This is also happening today. During the dry season (June to September), the lake loses much water through evaporation. This causes it to shrink, but the concentration of sodium carbonate becomes high, leading to extreme alkalinity.
What animals live in Lake Natron?
The hostile environment of the lake is dangerous to most forms of life. However, over 2.5 million lesser flamingos find the lake a safer place for breeding. This is due to the absence of predators since the saline and alkaline environments cause the deaths of animals trying to survive on this lake. The saline waters of the lake also support the existence of flamingos, as they are sources of food for flamingos. Some tilapia species also thrive in the less alkaline hot springs beside the inlets of Lake Natron.
Activities to do while at Lake Natron
Bird-watching
Bird viewing is one of the best things to do around Lake Natron. The lesser flamingos provide an incredible experience for visitors. They adorn the beaches of Lake Natron.
Hiking
Ol Doinyo Lengai is an active volcano neighboring Lake Natron. It is one of the fantastic volcanoes still active to date. It offers a challenging one-day hike and is known for its beautiful ashes resulting from dried lava. The highest peak is 2962 meters above sea level.
Visit the Maasai
Visiting the Maasai pastoralists is an interesting activity that you can enjoy at the lake. You will learn many things about their culture, pastoralism, and artwork.
The best time to visit
If you are thinking of taking a trip to Lake Natron, you should plan it from June to September. The red coloration is intense during this time. Water evaporates away, leaving behind a deep concentration of haloarchaea, which brings a deep red color. You will therefore enjoy the red appearance of this deadly lake when you are on a helicopter safari.
However, for those who want to see the flamingos, September and March are the best months. The breeding season also occurs during other periods of the year.
Is Lake Natron safe for swimming?
The lake is not safe for swimming. Its water is so alkaline that it can irritate your skin. You are not advised to go on a swimming trip on this lake.
Does Lake Natron turn animals into stones?
Due to high levels of sodium bicarbonate, dead birds and animals are calcified into stones. The use of sodium bicarbonate for mummification by the ancient Egyptians is related to the petrifying effect of the lake.
A visit to Lake Natron is life-enriching. You will enjoy a lot of wonderful things and beauty while reconnecting with the local communities. If you are ready to enjoy this wonderful experience, book a trip.
