Flamingos on Lake Natron
Flamingos on Lake Natron are one of the wildlife species usually spotted during safaris to the lake. Seeing the flamingos at Lake Natron is one of the most surreal and unforgettable wildlife experiences to be encountered there. Lake Natron is situated in northern Tanzania, at the border of Tanzania and Kenya, within the Great Rift Valley. It is a soda lake located at the base of Ol Donyo Lengai volcanic mountain, with a pH of 10.5. This lake is rich in soda and salt minerals, and it easily burns animals unfamiliar to its waters. It is also regarded as the largest breeding area for flamingos in the world.
About Lake Natron
Additionally, Lake Natron is about 22 kilometers wide and 56 kilometers long, primarily fed by the southern Ewaso Ngiro River. The concentration in this lake has a very high level of alkalinity, and it is considered one of the deadliest lakes in the world. The high pH of Lake Natron allows flamingos to thrive safely since it does not support predators. Flamingos enjoy living in this lake because it is abundant in cyanobacteria and algae, which provide them with food and a vibrant green color.
Lake Natron featured in the opening episode of the BBC series “A Perfect Planet,” narrated by David Attenborough, in January 2021. During filming, camera operator Matt Aeberhard stated that the lake’s pH is not far from that of household bleach. To capture the moments on the lake, the crew traveled by hovercraft. In this lake, the evaporation rates are high, creating unique formations.
While on Lake Natron, flamingos make up the largest percentage of the wildlife typically encountered, which is predominantly pink. Seventy-five percent of the world’s flamingo population resides in Lake Natron. More so, other wildlife species such as kudus, oryxes, zebras, ostriches, and a variety of others can be found in the surrounding area.
What to do at Lake Natron?
During safaris to this lake, several activities are available for engagement, including:
Nature Walks
Nature walks are a prominent activity while on safari at the lake. This activity is conducted on foot under the guidance of a ranger who ensures your safety during the exploration. Several wildlife species may be encountered, including zebras, kudus, ostriches, and many others.
Birding
Birding is another exciting activity available during safaris to Lake Natron. The most frequently encountered bird species during these safaris include lesser flamingos, as well as other species like the African spoonbill, yellow-billed stork, goliath heron, martial eagle, and many others.
Sundowner
This is another activity that can be enjoyed while at Lake Natron, typically experienced during sunset. It usually takes place at a scenic viewpoint, accompanied by refreshments set out on a table. During this time, you can witness the flamingos alongside the stunning reflections on the lake.
What other activities can you engage in besides Lake Natron?
While on safari to Lake Natron, several other activities can be enjoyed away from the lake’s offerings, such as:
Game Drives
This is one of the primary activities available in the surrounding areas of Lake Natron. Some destinations nearby include the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Serengeti National Park, and Tarangire National Park. In these parks, you can encounter diverse wildlife, including lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinos, elephants, zebras, giraffes, impalas, cheetahs, warthogs, and many more. Game drives are conducted in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing. They are traversed along various trails in the park for easier access to wildlife sightings. Game drives occur in different sessions—morning, full-day, afternoon, and evening.
Masai Community Tours
The Masai are one of the dominant communities in Tanzania, and during community tours, you can engage in various activities, including bead-making, fashion, cultural dances, folk songs, and learning about the pastoral life of the Masai people.
Accommodation near Lake Natron
There are several accommodation options around Lake Natron. These accommodate budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. Some of the facilities include Lengai Safari Lodge, Lake Natron Halisi Camp, African Safari Lake Natron, Lake Natron Tented Camp, Ngare Sero Lake Natron Camp, Masai Giraffe Eco Lodge, Kilahia Lodge, and many more
