Lake Eyasi

Lake Eyasi – Tanzania’s Cultural & Scenic Hidden Gem

Tucked away at the southern edge of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Eyasi is a shallow alkaline lake that offers a completely different experience from Tanzania’s famous national parks. Covering about 1,050 km², this seasonal soda lake is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rift Valley escarpment and is a haven for cultural discovery and birdlife.

Unlike Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi is less about game drives and more about cultural encounters, off-the-beaten-path exploration, and tranquil landscapes. It’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to connect with Tanzania’s people and traditions.

What Makes Lake Eyasi Unique

Rift Valley Backdrop
The lake sits beneath the towering walls of the Rift Valley escarpment, creating breathtaking sunsets and photography opportunities.

Home of the Hadzabe & Datoga Tribes
Lake Eyasi is one of the last strongholds of the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers, who still live much as their ancestors did, hunting with bows and arrows and gathering wild fruits. Nearby live the Datoga, skilled blacksmiths and pastoralists known for crafting jewelry, spears, and arrowheads.

Seasonal Alkaline Lake
The lake changes dramatically with the seasons—expanding in the rains and shrinking in the dry season, leaving behind shimmering salt pans.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Flocks of flamingos, pelicans, storks, and migratory birds gather here, making it a rewarding stop for bird lovers.

Why Visit Lake Eyasi?

For travelers combining Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Manyara, Lake Eyasi is the perfect add-on experience to balance wildlife adventures with authentic cultural encounters.

Lake Eyasi offers a cultural immersion you won’t find in Tanzania’s major safari parks. Meeting the Hadzabe and Datoga people provides a window into ancient ways of life that still endure today, while the lake and surrounding landscapes add natural beauty and tranquility.