lake Natron to Olduvai

5 days / 4 nights

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 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 an exceptional, well balanced adventure.

Olduvai gorge is known as the ‘Cradle of Mankind’ and the trekking route either to or from this area incorporates 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 add a migration experience post / pre trek. Key features include hiking the Gregorian Rift valley, Sanjan Gorge, Gol, Olduvai Gorge and we also have variations including Ol Karien Gorge.

highlights

The Great Migration (December – March)
The Gregorian Rift Valley
Stunning vistas
Learning about local tribes and customs
Being a witness to a changing times and culture
The unique habitat of Lake Natron
Flamingoes feeding & preening in fresh water streams

itinerary

Day 1 / Lake Natron Camp

Lake Natron has a number of activities that are very easily combined with dawn walks and sundowners. During the day there is the nearby Ngare Sero gorge that you can walk to and options of long hikes to the source or shorter hikes to waterfalls. The staff are on hand to make you stay as adventurous or as relaxing as you want. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

Day 2 / Lake Natron Camp

We have a natural pool at camp and fish that love to give you a free fish pedicure! Just the thing to pamper your feet before you set off on a hike up the rift valley tomorrow. The staff are on hand to make you stay as adventurous or as relaxing as you want. Dinner & overnight Lake Natron Camp (full board).

Day 3 / Sanjan Gorge

After breakfast you depart to the bottom of the rift valley and start your trek to Sanjan. The hike this morning is up the rift valley, following the migration routes of the Maasai and their cattle as they move to find pasture. Once on top of the rift valley you trek to meet our vehicle and transfer across the vast Salei plains to Sanjan Gorge (note that the wildebeest migration is often here from December – May). Picnic lunches are provided to ensure you reach your goal well fed.  You will be met by your camp crew when you reach your destination and you can go trek deep into Sanjan Gorge or just relax by the camp fire with a glass on wine! Dinner & overnight Sanjan Camp (full board). Trek 6km. Drive 22km.

Day 4 / Piyaya

The camp is set at the base of the Gol mountains and faces east, which affords a stunning sunrise! Bush coffee is served right from the fire and after a filling breakfast you set of with your Maasai guides along the sides of the Sanjan gorge. It is very rocky underfoot in places and so good shoes are a must and at certain points be sure to look back for stunning views. Once through the gorge you meander your way and then transfer to camp to relax. For those that arrive early there are options to visit local attractions. Dinner and overnight Piyaya Camp (full board). Trek 10km. Drive 4km.

Day 5 / Nasera Rock

When you get to Nasera Rock you will be met by your driver who will then take you on to your the next part of your itinerary via Olduvai Gorge! Drive 4km.

The REVERSE Olduvai to Lake Natron variation will be exactly same just starting at Nasera and finishing at Lake Natron.

All trips are customised to your dates

PLEASE NOTE: when there are rains on the Sale Plains or Gol, changes may have to be made to the routing.