ol doinyo lengai

Back in the day when the world was newer, the Maasai would hike up this mountain to offer sacrifices to Enkai. That is why they named this formidable giant that stands astride the magnificent Lake Natron, The Mountain of God.

It is a mountain that is as captivating as it is enigmatic. It is one of the shortest hikes I have done, but definitely not the easiest. Summitting at only 2890m asl, the walk up is punishing. But also spiritual. It is a pilgrimage to God’s abode, afterall.

A quick glance reveals a white head at the peak, and for a moment one may be forgiven for thinking it is snow. But that is ash. Streaks of valleys formed when rivers of lava once flowed and scarred the mountainsides. The Mountain of God is still an active volcano. The coldest one in the whole world.

Lake Natron, at its foot, is. an otherworldly oasis renowned for its vibrant populations of flamingos that flock at the shores. This hidden gem also  offers an enchanting experience for travellers who venture into its unique environment, marked by the stark contrast of its fiery red hues and the surrounding rugged terrain.

For the adventurous traveler, Ol Doinyo Lengai offers an exhilarating challenge. As you sit at the summit, staring at the earth jump out of a cone, the ground rumble under your feet, the smell of magma in the air, cold winds brushing against your face, you become part of something greater than yourself—a connection to the earth, the people, and the spirit of Ol Doinyo Lengai.

Visiting Ol Doinyo Lengai is more than just an adventure; it is a gift to yourself—a journey into the heart of nature, teeming wildlife, culture, and spirituality. As you descend its slopes, you carry with you not just memories of a remarkable landscape but a renewed sense of reverence for the natural world and the communities that honor it.