The last [eruption], in 1966, was the twelfth since 1880, and we may therefore be due for another. ...Lengai's 1966 eruption was much appreciated by photographers in light planes and most impressive to all who saw it.

Minor activity has continued since then. January to March 1983 witnessed, according to one report, 'moderate quantities' of pale grey ash emerging from the crater floor. During May 1984 there were two vents on the floor's north side that 'contained a black bubbling liquid'. Three months later a 'dark grey to black, ropy, mud-like crust' had formed over the inner surface of the crater. By February 1985 a lake, 'boiling vigorously', covered a quarter of the crater's floor.

Mount Meru, which either dominates the town of Arusha to the east of Ngorongoro or vanishes completely within a covering of cloud, flexed its muscles moderately in 1910. Presumable its altitude of 4566 metres will be amended by future eruptions.

In 1986 there were 'three small peaks', each about 7.5 metres high. In other words, although without a major eruption, the volcano is far from dead. It simmers, it bubbles, it rumbles occasionally, and forever changes its appearance, particularly on that crater floor. Many believe that Lengai is due for another eruption, an exciting event for all save those present at the time with a most unenviable ring-side seat.