Northern circuit
Lake Eyasi
A seasonal soda lake south-west of the crater, home to the Hadzabe, among the last hunter-gatherers in Africa, and to Datoga blacksmiths and farmers.
- Best: Jan–Mar, Jun–Dec
- Tailor-made
- Park fees in every price
About Lake Eyasi
Why go to Lake Eyasi
A seasonal soda lake south-west of the crater, home to the Hadzabe, among the last hunter-gatherers in Africa, and to Datoga blacksmiths and farmers.
Eyasi is not a wildlife destination. People come to spend a morning with Hadzabe hunters, who still hunt with bows and gather wild food, and to visit Datoga families who work metal by hand.
We think these visits should be arranged with care: small groups, local guides from the community, and fees that reach the families you meet. We will tell you plainly how a visit is organised before you decide.
What you’ll see
A morning with Hadzabe hunters
Datoga blacksmiths
Onion farms and the lake shore
Birdlife on the lake when it holds water
- Best timeJun–Oct
- Time neededOne night, usually before or after the crater
- From KaratuAbout 1.5 hours
- Known forCultural visits with Hadzabe and Datoga communities
- Our safaris hereTailor-made on request
- RegionNorthern circuit
More about Lake Eyasi
The lake and its people
Lake Eyasi lies on the floor of the Rift Valley south-west of the Ngorongoro highlands. Its draw is cultural: the Hadzabe, among the last hunter-gatherers in Africa, live here, alongside Datoga herders and blacksmiths.
Birdlife gathers on the lake when it holds water, including flamingos, and the woodland around it is home to leopards, though they are rarely seen.
Tips
- Go with a local guide from the community.
- Ask before taking photos, and follow your hosts’ lead.
- Dry season (June to October) is easiest.
Seasons
When to go
Dry season Jun–Oct is easiest. Best time to visit Tanzania, month by month
Where it is
Location
Distances, as the crow flies
- Arushaabout 180 km
- Ngorongoroabout 70 km
- Lake Manyaraabout 80 km
Road distances are longer; driving times are in the facts above.
In pictures
Photo gallery
Good to know
FAQs
Is a Hadzabe visit ethical?
It can be, if it is small, run with the community and pays them fairly. We will explain how ours is arranged and who receives the fee.
Guest reviews
Travellers on travelling with Makini
5.0Excellent · 105+ reviews
The communication with the company was very good, and we were in good hands from the minute we arrived… we got a lot of value for the money.
Saudat N. TripAdvisor The communication with Lucas via WhatsApp was always very friendly, direct and immediate… our tour guide Aboh was very familiar with all animals and plants.
Godfrey M. TripAdvisor Great value local Tanzanian operator that provided an unforgettable safari experience.
Damas F. TripAdvisor
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Plan your Lake Eyasi trip
Tell us your dates and who’s travelling. We’ll suggest the right route, lodges and price.