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Lake Natron is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. All thanks to its unique reddish-pink color. However, tourists are not allowed to swim in it, and the water is so unusual that it can turn animals into “stone”.
Lake Natron is located mainly in Tanzania, but extends into Kenya, writes The Sun. It lies in the shadow of the Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, or “Mountain of God”, which is active.
The lake's pink hue is attributed to a special type of algae, also known as cyanobacteria, that is attracted to the mineral-rich water of the lake. And these minerals pose risks to life.
“Although cyanobacteria are deadly in themselves, they release a chemical that damages the cells, nervous system, and liver of most animals that consume it. Many birds and animals that drink water from Lake Natron die,” the material says.
The water that enters the lake is pumped from hot springs full of minerals—mostly sodium carbonate, once used for mummification in Egypt, and other salts. But unlike the Great Salt Sea and the Dead Sea, which are popular with tourists, Lake Natron has extremely alkaline water: the pH level is almost 10,5. This is as high as ammonia.
“Creatures that are exposed to the lake’s deadly properties and die in the water calcify over time. They turn into stone mummies, their bodies preserved by chemicals in the water,” the authors explain.
Remarkably, the water of this lake poses no danger to flamingos. Lake Natron has become a key breeding ground for lesser flamingos, which have adapted to the harsh chemical conditions. The toxic water has actually become a safe haven for these birds, as it keeps predators at bay.
