mountain of god

How Tall is Ol Doinyo Lengai?

Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai stands at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) above sea level.

Where is Ol Doinyo Lengai Located?

Ol dointyo Lengai is Located near Lake Natron and within the East African Rift. Its remote location is part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, making it accessible yet preserved in a largely untouched state.Unlike typical volcanoes, its carbonatite lava is cooler (around 500–600°C compared to 1,200°C for basaltic lava), making it less explosive but incredibly fascinating to scientists and adventurers alike.

Ol doinyo lengai Last eruption

Ol Doinyo Lengai remains an active volcano, with its last eruption recorded in 2024. The formation of Ol Doinyo Lengai likely began forming hundreds of thousands of years. Over time, repeated eruptions of lava and ash built up the volcanic cone, layer by layer.

What does the Name Mean?

Ol Doinyo Lengai means “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. The Maasai people, who live in the surrounding areas of northern Tanzania, view the volcano as a sacred site. It is a place of worship and ceremonial rites, believed to be the home of their god, Enkai.

Climbing Ol'donyo Lengai

The walk to the top of Ol’Doinyo Lengai is very intense due to the many loose grains on the mountain. It is important to know that the daily conditions on the mountain are changing. The guide can decide on the spot to cancel the climb to the top. Duration: 12 hours.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to hike Oldoinyo Lengai is during the dry seasons:

  • June to October

  • December to February

These months offer clearer skies, safer trails, and unforgettable sunrise summit views.