7 Day Walking Safari to Ngorongoro, Empakai and Lake Natron

Today we visit the largest intact volcanic crater in the world, the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. At more than 2,000 feet deep and 12 miles in diameter, the Ngorongoro Crater has one of the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. 30,000 animals make their home in this crater, making it an ideal place for sightings of the ‘big 5′ – lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard. We enjoy a game drive and picnic lunch in the crater, also known as the ’8th Wonder of the World’. Dinner and overnight Simba Campsite A: FB

After breakfast we drive to Olmoti Crater for a half day walk. Often we meet Maasai on the way. We walk to the water falls at the crater for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon we drive to our base camp at Empakaai Crater Rim (If you have an extra day this part of the journey could also be done on foot.) You will experience the serenity and quiet beauty of this wild spot. Surrounding the lake are many springs, where the wildlife is plentiful. In the lake there are many flamingos. Dinner and overnight at: the special Campsite, Empakaai: FB

Today we walk from Empakaai to Acacia Campsite. We descend the outer hills of the Great Rift Valley, walk through the open plains of the Embulbul depression,and pass through Naiobi village. We again have the opportunity to meet the local Maasai. Ol Doinyo Lengai and Mount Meru are seen along the way. Donkeys carry our luggage or it will be shuttled by car. Dinner and overnight at Acacia Campsite: FB

Today we walk to Oldonyo Lengai, the single active volcano mountain in Tanzania. The name means the holy mountain or mountain of God in Maasai. The steep trail will lead us down into the Rift Valley escarpment. After 5-6 hours of walking we reach the foot of the inspiring mountain. Here you can decide if you want to camp at the Chini Ya Mlima campsite, or want to proceed to the Engaresero campsite, which is much more comfortable (showers!) and less hot.Both campsites are in the Lake Natron area. Dinner and overnight at Engaresero or Chini Ya Mlima Campsite: FB

Today you’ll experience the culture and traditions of the local Maasai at Lake Natron. Your local guide will show you the Maasai Boma and explain the way Maasai live .You may walk to the waterfalls, see the flamingos in the lake and visit the hot springs. At night you may relax in the campsite or do a night walk to the top of the crater and watch the sunrise. Dinner and overnight at Engaresero Campsite: FB

Drive to Lake Manyara in the morning arriving for a hot lunch. We spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or doing cultural tours of the Makonde Tribe, banana plantations and local culture. . Dinner and overnight at Twiga Campsite:FB

Today we continue back to Arusha with the opportunity to shop, visit the Cultural Center, and transfer to JRO for night flight or for the next adventure.