The Unique Carbonatite Volcano

Ol Doinyo Lengai

Ol Doinyo Lengai

The Unique Carbonatite Volcano

Ol Doinyo Lengai, known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language, is a unique active volcano located in the Gregory Rift of the East African Rift Valley in Tanzania. Standing at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet), it is renowned for its rare natrocarbonatite lava, which is cooler and more fluid than typical silicate lava, appearing black during eruptions and turning white upon exposure to air. The volcano holds significant geological interest due to its unusual lava composition and cultural importance to the Maasai people. Ol Doinyo Lengai’s eruptions vary from explosive activity to effusive lava flows, providing valuable insights into carbonatite magmatism and volcanic processes. The surrounding region’s biodiversity and ecosystems are shaped by these volcanic activities, influencing local wildlife, vegetation, and human activities such as agriculture and tourism.

When to visit Ol Doinyo Lengai

28

°C

100

MM

Green season

JANUARY - FEBRUARY

28

°C

300

MM

Long rains

MARCH - MAY

25

°C

50

MM

Dry season

JUNE - SEPTEMBER

28

°C

102

MM

Short rains

OCTOBER - DECEMBER

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