The Great Rift Valley Trek and Tanzania's Ngorongoro highlands

Embark on a breathtaking adventure with the Rift Valley Trek, a multi-day hike through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The Great Rift Valley is perhaps the most famous rift valley in the world, stretching from the Middle East to Mozambique. This area, with its active geology, volcanoes, and hot springs, offers a unique multi-day hiking experience in Tanzania. It's a beautifully diverse area where much wildlife thrives and only the Maasai are allowed to live. Discover authentic Tanzania under the guidance of a Maasai guide as you hike through unique landscapes and meet friendly local residents. The Maasai live in harmony with their livestock, with donkeys playing a crucial role in the daily life of communities. They are strong, intelligent, and sensitive and will help carry luggage, food, and drink during your journey. Your own chef will cook for you while you camp in tents amidst nature.

Day 1: Descent into the Empakai Crater

Your adventure begins with a leisurely breakfast before departing from your accommodation to the Empakai Crater. Here, you'll meet your team for the next few days, including your Maasai guide and a park ranger. Together, you'll take a walk at the Empakai Crater, descending on a narrow path from the crater rim. This hike offers breathtaking views and the chance to spot flamingos, which are often seen in the crater. After the hike, you'll return to the top where your camp is set up for the night. A warm shower awaits for dinner, after which you'll enjoy a delicious meal and go to bed early.

⛺️ Empakai Camp

Day 2: Rift Valley Escarpment

Wake up at sunrise and enjoy a beautiful morning. While you have breakfast, the camp team breaks down the camp and sets off with the donkeys to the next location. You'll head out with your Maasai guides, who will lead you through picturesque Maasai villages and rolling hills. Along the way, you can have a picnic lunch, and in the late afternoon, a walk to a nearby lookout point is recommended for a stunning sunset. 

🥾 Today's hike is approximately 16 km.

⛺️ Leonotis Camp 

Day 3: Hike to Lake Natron

On the final leg of the trek, you can choose between a shorter or longer route along the Rift wall. The views are spectacular, with the active volcano Oldoinyo Lengai dominating the foreground. Once down in the Rift Valley, you'll be picked up and taken to Lake Natron Camp, Ngare Sero. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in natural water springs and enjoy a walk to the lake at sunset. 

🥾 Today's hike is approximately 12 km.

⛺️ Lake Natron Camp

Day 4: The Ngare Sero Waterfalls

On this day, you'll hike to the waterfalls at Lake Natron under the guidance of a local guide. Along the way, you'll pass through small communities where you'll interact with friendly Tanzanians. After the hike, you can refresh yourself at the waterfalls before returning to camp. Wear shoes that can get wet as the landscape ranges from dry volcanic rocks to lush tropical palm trees.

⛺️ Lake Natron Camp 

How to plan this trip into your Tanzanian adventure?

This 4 days hiking trip can easily be scheduled during your vacation in Tanzania, for example, between your safari days. You can start by exploring Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Crater, followed by the Rift Valley Trek and then travel to the Serengeti from Lake Natron. We are happy to advise you on the most suitable route for your adventure. Contact us today to plan your journey to the Great Rift Valley.