6 days Ngorongoro Crater Rim, Empakaai & Lake Natron Walking Safari

• Safari
• Tanzania Safaris

This active 6-day walking adventure combines classic Tanzanian wildlife experiences with an unforgettable multi-day walking safari through the dramatic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands and Great Rift Valley. Starting with game drives in iconic parks, the itinerary transitions into a supported trek accompanied by Maasai guides, armed rangers just like on Mount Meru treks due to the presence of wildlife in the vicinity, and donkeys carrying your gear. You’ll explore volcanic craters, alkaline lakes, and remote escarpments, encountering wildlife on foot for a deeper connection to the wilderness. Highlights include panoramic views, flamingo-filled lakes, and cultural interactions with local Maasai communities—all in one of Tanzania’s most off-the-beaten-path regions.

Ngorongoro Crater Rim Walk

The journey begins with a full exploration of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater on Day 3, descending into this vast caldera for game drives teeming with the Big Five and other wildlife. Afterwards, you’ll drive along the crater rim toward Empakaai, offering stunning elevated views over the crater floor, the surrounding highlands, and distant volcanic peaks. While not a dedicated long hike, this rim drive and potential short walks provide breathtaking panoramas of one of the world’s largest intact calderas, often shrouded in mist and alive with birds and grazing animals. More about Ngorongoro treks

Empakaai Crater Walk

Empakaai (also spelled Empakai) is a hidden gem in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—a deep volcanic caldera with steep, forested walls rising 300 meters and a soda lake covering much of its floor. On Days 3–4, you’ll camp on the rim and have the opportunity to hike down the steep trail (about 30–45 minutes descent, longer on the ascent) through lush montane forest to the crater floor. Here, flocks of flamingos often gather on the emerald-green lake, alongside buffalo, hyenas, and smaller wildlife. The rim offers epic views of Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, the Great Rift Valley, and even distant Kilimanjaro on clear days. Accompanied by an armed ranger, this hike immerses you in a serene, mist-shrouded paradise rarely visited by crowds. Learn more about Empakaai Crater

Walking Tour at Lake Natron

The trek’s climax unfolds on Days 4–6 as you hike from Empakaai via Acacia Camp to the shores of Lake Natron, a surreal soda lake in the Rift Valley. Supported by donkeys and guided by Maasai experts, this multi-day walk traverses rolling highlands, escarpments, and arid plains, with chances to spot wildlife and visit remote villages. Arriving at Lake Natron, you’ll witness its blood-red waters (from algae) and vast flocks of lesser flamingos—often millions during breeding season—creating a pink spectacle against the backdrop of active volcano Ol Doinyo Lengai. Day 6 includes a sunrise walk for prime birdwatching before returning to Arusha.

Best Time to Do This Walking Safari

The ideal period is the dry season from June to October, when trails are firm, visibility is excellent, and temperatures are comfortable for hiking (though mornings/evenings can be cool at higher elevations). This time maximizes flamingo sightings at Lake Natron (peak breeding August–October) and minimizes rain-related disruptions. July–September offers prime wildlife viewing with shorter grass. Avoid the heavy rains (March–May), as roads and paths can become impassable. The short rains (November–December) bring greener landscapes but potential mud.

Why Choose a Walking Safari

Unlike traditional vehicle-based safaris, a walking safari lets you truly immerse yourself in the bush: feel the earth underfoot, hear distant animal calls, smell the wild herbs, and notice intricate details like tracks, insects, and plants often missed from a jeep. Guided by experienced Maasai and rangers, you’ll gain insights into tracking, ecology, and local culture while enjoying remote areas inaccessible by car. It’s safer than it sounds (armed escorts ensure protection), more sustainable, and profoundly rewarding—turning you from spectator to participant in Tanzania’s wilderness.

What to Wear for a Walking Safari

When packing for your walking safari in Tanzania, please prioritise comfort, protection, and neutrality:

• Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, olive, brown) to blend in and avoid attracting insects like tsetse flies—avoid bright colours, white (shows dirt), black/blue (attracts bugs).
• Lightweight, breathable long-sleeved shirts and convertible pants (zip-off legs) for sun/insect protection.
• Sturdy, broken-in closed-toe hiking boots or walking shoes with good grip for uneven terrain.
• Layers: Fleece or light jacket for cool highlands mornings/evenings; wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and buff/scarf for sun/dust.
• Socks (thick for blister prevention), underwear, and a rain jacket (even in dry season).
• Essentials: High-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and a daypack for water/snacks.