MT. OLDOINYO LENKAI
Mt. Lenkai (normally known as “Oldoinyo Lengai”) rises about 2,100 meters above the East African Rift Valley floor to a height approximately 2,880 m. The name Oldoinyo Lenkai which means "Mountain of God," originates from the Maa language (the Maasai's language) from Ngorongoro area. The Maasai people conduct prayers to God “Enkai” or “Engai” whom the Maasai believe is the Creator of all things on this active volcanic mountain.
Oldoinyo Lenkai is the only active volcanic mountain in the East African Rift Valley Region which attracts many geologists from all over the world who come for research.
Scientifically, carbonated lava is dark brown upon extrusion, but reacts very rapidly and turns into moisture to hydrate, then to secondary alteration minerals that impart a white color to the rock. The Maasai believe that the “white rock” symbolizes the white beards of "Enkai."
Many tourists visit and climb this mountain which is located in Northern Tanzania every year. One should not underestimate this 9,442 feet long mountain, as it needs much determination to climb because of the steep walking. However, climbing Oldoinyo Lenkai doesn't require technical skills to get to the peak.
At the summit, the small cones formed by lava can be seen on the crater rim. Despite the fact that Oldoinyo Lenkai's volcano erupts frequently there are no records of injuries or deaths. Geologists tell that Oldoinyo Lenka's lava is not as hot as other volcanoes lava recorded in the world.
It takes three days to the summit of Oldoinyo Lenkai. After a climb to Lenkai, African Buffalo Safaris advices tourists to spend sometime and take a tour around Lake Natron . Lake Natron is the largest lake in East Africa which accommodates numerous flamingos and other birdlife.
African Buffalo Safaris in its itinerary arranges a Walking Safari from Ngare-Sero, Engaruka to Loliondo usually accompanied by armed rangers. During this Safari one can explore wide varieties of wildlife such as zebras, elephants, giraffes, impalas and many more. There are a lot of birds and different kind of vegetation to see while walking around.
