Sacred Places of the Maasai (2025) Itinerary

The beguiling lesser flamingo feed on algae found in soda lakes across eastern Africa but choose to breed almost exclusively at Lake Natron. Our guests can take early morning or sunset walks to the lake flats. For seasonal more intense flamingo experience please see Pinyinyi Flamingo Picnic Lunch.

| $included | time: 1 to 4 hours |

Cool off in any one of the natural plunge pools in front of the accommodation units or dining / bar area. There is also a larger pool suitable for swimming further down stream as well as endemic cyclids – bring some goggles or ask our team for a pair!

| $included | time: at your leisure|

Walk to hominid footprints within our concession area. These footprints were discovered by members of our team and since then have been investigated by separate teams both locally and internationally to try to establish how they came to be. Initially it was thought that they might be as old as 100,000 years or more but recent studies indicate them to be younger. A fascinating chance to look back in time at a group of people that raises a number of questions about hominids in East Africa and part of a larger story of man in East Africa.

| $included | time: 1 to 2 hours, can be combined with sundowner |

Walk to one of the nearby sundowner spots. Enjoy your sundowner overlooking the Lake Natron, the majestic Lengai and Gelai mountains and watch the sun go down behind the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Note private sundowners can be arranged in conjunction with the use of your tour operators vehicle (ask your tour operator for any additional costs).

| $included| time: at your leisure |

It's not always about adventure! Relax and unwind at Lake Natron Camp by having a massage by one of our lovely Masaai therapists from the local village, Ngare Sero, who have been trained onsite by a professional massage and beauty therapist. $ON REQUEST

A great alternative to climbing Lengai, this adventurous hike leaves at dawn from camp and you transfer to the base of the rift valley wall. You then scale the wall on foot, ascending close to the Ngare Sero gorge to enjoy the dawn. A picnic breakfast is taken with you and once on top this is the perfect place to enjoy being in one of the most dramatic view points in this region. After breakfast descend back down another route, or select the same way depending on time.

| price: included | time: 6 hours |

Let us arrange a walk up Ngare Sero gorge to see the spectacular waterfalls. The scenery is a unique blend of arid volcanic rocks and lush tropical palms. Wear shoes that can get wet, preferably trainers or secure sandals, as it is rocky underfoot! Take 2 litres of water and snacks. Its great spot for lunch so please ask your guide for a packed lunch!

| $included | time: 2- 3 hours |

Hot springs are the life and blood of the area and are on route to bird watching sites. You can visit geothermal heated springs where the birds preen.

| price: included | time: Drive 1 hour | Time there 1-2 hours |

A full day hiking deep into the Ngare Sero gorge to see the source of the river. A picnic lunch is taken and at least 3 liters of water are required. A great alternative to climbing Lengai if the Lengai ascent is deemed not hikable.

| $included | time: 4 – 6 hours |

A hike to then top of Oldoinyo Lengai, the only active Carbonatite volcano in the world.

An overnight ascent on the 3000m tall “Mountain of God” lit by moonlight is an unforgettable and mystical experience. This is a very challenging hike up an active carbonatite volcano with stunning views.

Note that the conditions on Lengai can change daily. It must be understood that the guide’s decision to reach the summit section is based on daily conditions and clients should be briefed that there is the possibility of not reaching the true summit. If that is the case please note refunds are not available! Great alternatives to this trip are the ‘Source Adventure Hike’.

Please note that guests are required to wear climbing helmets at the final section near the summit.

| $100* per person | time: average 12 hours |

*fees and guiding fees payable AT VILLAGE OFFICE $100 per person 1 pax and $160 per 2 pax – please check at time of booking. Transfers with our vehicle ARE NOT included but can be provided with advance notice at $250 per vehicle.

***Stay 3 nights at Lake Natron Camp and YOU get to climb Lengai for FREE! Please note if you would like to pre book Lengai and are staying less that 3 nights you can do so with our office at the published rates + 18% VAT which is payable to the Government. Please see link for more information http://www.oldoinyo-lengai.org

VISIT NGARE SERO VILLAGE | $INCLUDED | AT YOUR LEISURE

Become a local! Take a 15 minute drive to Ngare Sero Village. Visit the local school and grab a drink at a local bar.

TIP: ASK TO SEE THE PERMACULTURE PROJECT AND VEGETABLE PATCH!

This part of the Great Rift Valley is populated by the Maasai people. Maasai bomas spread around the area, but the main central village is few kilometres away to the west at the base of the escarpment. The village is named Engare Sero, which means dappled water. This village gets its name from the river flowing out of the escarpment through a spectacular gorge that is both arid and lush. Take some time out with your guides and visit a local homestead.

| $100 per group| time: 2 hours |

A 2 night trek combined with 2 nights in Lake Natron. The trek starts with a night at Empakai Crater in the Ngorongoro highlands (and depending on arrival time can include a descent into Empakai) from which our guides lead you down the outer slopes of Empakai with the second night on the edge of the Gregorian rift. You then trek down the rift valley with stunning views throughout and once at the base are transferred for 2 nights at Lake Natron Camp (Ngare Sero) and use this as a base for activities such as seeing the flamingoes on Lake Natron, visiting the hominid footprints, delving deep into the Ngare Sero gorge or even just relaxing in camp and enjoying the natural plunge pools. For the very active you can also climb Oldonyo Lengai (extra cost).

All our adventures can be booked through a tour operator near you. Just ask them about Lake Natron Camp, Ngare Sero and our range of activities and adventures and specify the “Empakai to Lake Natron Trek”. You can add this adventure into your dates – all trips are customised to your dates.

Itinerary In Short

Day 1: Drive to Empakai. Empakai trek. Empakai Camp (fb)

Day 2: Trek to Leonotis Camp (fb) Trek 16km

Day 3: Trek to Lake Natron Camp with a pick up at the bottom of the rift valley. Lake Natron Camp (fb) Trek 12km, Drive 14km

Day 4: Relax and take part in activities at Lake Natron Camp (fb)

Day 5: Depart

| $ rates in documentation tab | time: 5 days |

A 1 night trek combined with 2 nights in Lake Natron. The trek starts at Empakai or just below and normally descending into Empakai crater is NOT POSSIBLE due to time constraints, instead you hike down to our Leonotis camp below Naiobi. For those that have the energy a trek to our Rift Valley sundowner spot is highly recommended, the views are amazing!

After one night in our remote fly camp at Leonotis Camp you then trek down the rift valley with stunning views throughout and once at the base are transferred for 2 nights at Lake Natron Camp (Ngare Sero) and use this as a base for activities such as seeing the flamingoes on Lake Natron, visiting the hominid footprints, delving deep into the Ngare Sero gorge or even just relaxing in camp and enjoying the natural plunge pools. For the very active you can also climb Oldonyo Lengai (extra cost).

Itinerary In Short

Day 1: Drive to Empakai. Trek into crater and trek to Leonotis Camp (fb) Trek 16km

Day 2:  Trek to Lake Natron Camp with a pick up at the bottom of the rift valley. Lake Natron Camp (fb) Trek 12km, Drive 14km

Day 3: Relax and take part in activities at Lake Natron Camp (fb)

Day 4: Depart

| $ rates in documentation tab | time: 4 days |

This is a trek back through millennia of evolution from the relatively recent hominid footprints right by our Lake Natron Camp, all the way to Olduvai, commonly known as “one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world”, and home to evidence of our earliest ancestors. Each camp location and design is being targeted at guests that are looking for an off the beaten track experience, entirely respectful of the environment, and yet just enough comfort to ensure a superlative well balanced adventure.

Olduvai gorge is known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ and this trekking expedition courses routes either to or from this area incorporating the history of mankind, geology and landscapes spanning 250 million years. You can time this expedition with the migration in the short grass plains, or append a migration experience post / pre trek. Key features include hiking the Gregorian Rift valley, Sanjan Gorge, Gol, Olduvai Gorge and note we also have variations including Ol Karien Gorge.

Itinerary In Short

Day 1: Lake Natron Camp

Day 2: Lake Natron Camp

Day 3: Trek & drive to Sanjan. Trek 6km. Drive 22km

Day 4: Trek to Piyaya. Trek 10km. Drive 4km

Day 5: Pick up from Nasera rock. Drive 4km

| $request| time: 5 days |

Empakai – Leonotis – Natron – Sanjan – Piyaya – Nasera Rock – Olduvai

Why this adventure?

For active types Tanzania has a lot to offer and this is one of the most dramatic hikes in East Africa. As well as the amazing scenery there is also the chance to witness the changing lives of the Maasai in both Ngorongoro and Natron.

This is a trek back through millennia of evolution from the relatively recent hominid footprints right by our Lake Natron Camp, all the way to Olduvai, commonly known as “one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world”, and home to evidence of our earliest ancestors. Each camp location and design is being targeted at guests that are looking for an off the beaten track experience, entirely respectful of the environment, and yet just enough comfort to ensure a superlative well balanced adventure.

Olduvai gorge is known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ and this trekking expedition courses routes either to or from this area incorporating the history of mankind, geology and landscapes spanning 250 million years. You can time this expedition with the migration in the short grass plains, or append a migration experience post / pre trek. Key features include hiking the Gregorian Rift valley, Sanjan Gorge, Gol, Olduvai Gorge and note we also have variations including Ol Karien Gorge.

1 EPIC week of ADVENTURE!

Itinerary In Short

Day 1: Drive to Empakai. Empakai trek. Empakai Camp (fb)

Day 2: Trek to Leonotis Camp (fb) Trek 16km

Day 3: Trek to Lake Natron Camp with a pick up at the bottom of the rift valley. Lake Natron Camp (fb) Trek 12km, Drive 14km

Day 4: Relax and take part in activities at Lake Natron Camp (fb)

Day 5: Trek & drive to Sanjan. Sanjan Camp (fb). Trek 6km. Drive 22km

Day 6: Trek & drive to Piyaya. Piyaya Camp (fb). Trek 10km. Drive 4km

Day 7: Pick up from Nasera rock. Drive 4km to pickup point then transfer to Serengeti or Ngorongoro or Ndutu

| $request | time: 7 days |

TRADITIONAL MAASAI BBQ | $INCLUDED | UPON REQUEST WITH GROUPS

Enjoy a traditional Maasai Goat BBQ around the campfire with singing and dancing entertainment.

Seronera’s network of river valleys ensure year-round water supplies and support an incredibly rich wildlife population throughout the year. There is plenty of resident game: big cats, elephant and buffalo herds – and of course it’s in the path of the wildebeest migration – an incredible spectacle.

With our spacious, customised Land Cruisers, you can view the extensive wildlife and hopefully capture an iconic river crossing in comfort. Our Land Cruisers have been customised with photographers in mind (providing bean bags, gimbal mounts and charging ports). Please enquire about the gimbal mounts prior to your safari.

Early morning game viewing on a Serengeti Balloon Safari is an exhilarating experience you will struggle to find words to capture. The Seronera River provides the only permanent water in the central Serengeti, forcing resident wildlife to congregate in the valley. This area is particularly scenic with open plains, acacia woodlands and many hippo pools in the river. Your safari starts at 06h00 and lasts for around one hour, after which a sumptuous champagne bush breakfast is served. A memorable experience indeed! Min age: 7 years

Engage in a dining experience unlike any other with our Crater Hot Breakfast or Lunch. Right on the vibrant Ngorongoro Crater floor, enveloped by awe-inspiring views and a multitude of wildlife, you'll enjoy a hot, sumptuous meal. This one-of-a-kind feast offers more than just culinary delights, it's a sensory adventure, a harmonious blend of food, nature, and captivating wildlife, immersing you in the very heart of the African wilderness.

A Maasai Village visit at Lion's Paw offers an authentic cultural experience, immersing guests in the traditional lifestyle of the Maasai people. During the visit, you'll explore a traditional boma, where you'll see the iconic circular houses made of mud and straw. Engage with friendly Maasai hosts, learning about their customs, rituals, and daily life. Witness traditional dances and music, and observe the intricate beadwork and craftsmanship in their jewelry. This visit provides a unique insight into the rich heritage of the Maasai, leaving you with a deeper appreciation of their enduring culture.

Maasai villagers in traditional attire Credit: Karibu camps and lodges

Guest exploring Maasai craftsmanship Credit: karibu camps and lodges

Safari vehicle ascending Ngorongoro crater rim Credit: karibu camps and lodges

Maasai elder demonstrating fire-making Credit: karibu camps and lodges

Aerial view of traditional Maasai village Credit: karibu camps and lodges

Maasai community gathering at sunrise Credit: karibu camps and lodges

Maasai community gathering at sunrise Credit: karibu camps and lodges

A walking safari at Lion's Paw offers an intimate and immersive experience in the Ngorongoro Crater's diverse ecosystem. Guided by experienced rangers, guests explore the natural landscape on foot, gaining a unique perspective on the flora and fauna. This activity allows for close encounters with wildlife and an opportunity to learn about the smaller details often missed during vehicle safaris, such as tracks, insects, and plants. The walk provides a deeper connection to the environment, with the thrill of being on the ground in one of Africa's most iconic settings.

Located just 10 minutes from the Ngorongoro Crater, Lion's Paw is perfect for game viewing, offering an excellent chance to see the Big Five. This prime location allows for early morning and late afternoon safaris, maximizing opportunities to witness lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

Enhance your safari experience at Ngorongoro Lion's Paw Camp by capturing every unforgettable moment with the assistance of a professional photographer. This service ensures that your memories are beautifully preserved, allowing you to relive your adventures through stunning, high-quality images.