![]() On the way we shall enjoy beautiful wildlife and cultural experiences – this area is inhabited by the Maasai tribe. Our Lake Natron Safari will depart Arusha and drive North to the Kenyan border, where the soda lake is located. In nearly any social studies class, bodies of water are framed as life-giving and as focal points for the world’s nations.DAY 1, 2 AND 3: LAKE NATRON – IN THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY Lakes and rivers are often credited in many civilizations’ lengthy histories for providing a means of transportation and crucial food security. Water itself stands as a symbol of life ancient Egypt thrived due to fertile soil that would have been absent had it not been for the Nile River. Nonetheless, the complexity of nature has created exceptions to this rule. For instance, in the East African nation of Tanzania lies the deadly Lake Natron. ![]() ![]() Lake Natron sits along the East African Rift System in northern Tanzania, and is 35 miles long and about half as wide. Lake Natron is a salt lake, meaning it is incredibly alkaline.Īlthough often photographed for its location under sunlit clouds and for its serene backdrop, the lake is an abyss for almost all wildlife. The deposits of natron, a chemical salt, flow in from the surrounding hills. This causes the lake’s pH level to be a very basic 10.5 this pH level falls only a bit short of that of ammonia and bleach. The water in this lake only flows inward, so evaporation leaves behind hefty salt deposits. Lake Natron can also reach a steamy state, with the water’s temperature recorded to reach 140 degrees Fahrenheit. In addition, a peculiar site is found at the shores of the lake. Long lines of dead birds and bats cover the shoreline, with each specimen preserved in a stonelike state. Scientists explain that the high salinity of the lake “freezes” the animals, perfectly preserving them with all of their wings and feathers in place. ![]() Nature photographer Nick Brandt chose to turn this site into a fascinating art project. He perches the birds on branches and poses the bats in order to make them look “alive.” With the help of locals, Brandt collected the best specimens and masterfully crafted chilling portraits of the fallen animals. ![]()
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