The Great Rift Valley Lakes of Kenya: The Great Rift Valley is one of the most incredible geographical wonders stretching from the Red Sea to Mozambique and host to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Kenya. Of these, the Great Rift Valley Lakes are magnificent examples of the region’s geographic endowment and its biodiversity. This guide will try to describe in detail the splendid lakes found in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya as well as the kind of wildlife found in the vicinity and the activities that people engage in around the lakes.
The Great Rift Valley Lakes: An Overview
The Great Rift Valley lakes in Kenya are a chain of water bodies that are a little bit salty and fresh and which have been caused by the joining of the rifts. Due to public awareness of these places, they are famous for capturing stunning geographical features, diverse biosphere, and social relation values. The larger major lakes present tourists with a variety and different experiences, these include; Lake Nakuru, lake Naivasha, and Lake Elementaita.
- Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is one of the most popular and beautiful lakes in Kenya which is situated in North racket Nakuru District.
– Birdlife: Flamingos are in large numbers on the shores of Lake Nakuru especially feeding on algae that grows in the alkaline water. The lake also avails other bird species such as pelicans, cormorants, and herons among other species.
– Wildlife: The next attraction is the surrounding environment, which is the; Lake Nakuru National Park. This park has both black and white rhinos which are commonly likely to be seen feeding close to the lake. Other wild animals include lions, giraffes, zebras as well as different species of antelopes.
– Activities: This supports visitors to be able to explore the park for various games that they want, bird-watching exercises within the nation, and nature walks around the lake. Sights include Baboon Cliff, where tourists can get magnificent views of the park especially the Lake and the surrounding region.
- Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha which is located in the central rift valley is a freshwater body that is established for will land, vegetation as well as wildlife.
– Wildlife: Tourists are in also a position to view many different animals and the lake is famous for hippos which are always found in the waters. Weak: Many kinds of animals such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests can be seen along the shoreline of the lake. Bird watching is also an added advantage with this sanctuary, one seeing fish eagles, and kingfishers among other birds.
– Activities: The boat services are also available for visitors to hire and go around Lake Naivasha sighting different wildlife and the general surrounding beauty. The Crescent Island near the shores of Lake Naivasha hosts walking safaris you will be able to meet the wildlife up close. Fishing is another activity that people can engage in by the lake and the area is also perfect for having a picnic.
– Nearby Attractions: The Hell’s Gate National Park close to Maasai Mara features exploits such as; geographical features mainly composed of naked base rocks, and geothermal features that include hot springs among others offer extra thrills. This park has beautiful gorges, hot springs, and bicycle riding tracks.
- Lake Elementaita
Lake Elementaita is the midland between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha but is perhaps smaller in size compared to both but beautiful and serene for bird-watching.
– Birdlife: The birds of the large flamingo variety and the smaller ones known as the lesser flamingo are prominent here and the other varieties of birds such as the pelicans and avocets are also visible.
– Wildlife: As for wildlife the lake is not famous for big animals, but the area surrounding it hosts several types of antelopes and it is a perfect spot for bird watching.
– Activities: This is because; the lake is small and its surrounding environment is very quiet making it a preferred place where people could camp and relax more. People can engage in sightseeing, hiking, and bird watching among other activities.
Visiting the Great Rift Valley Lakes
Visiting and touring the lakes in the Great Rift Valley is not just all about watching animals, although that is an exciting part of it, but it also encompasses other things that are interesting to do such as great view sightings. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit: Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit:
- Getting There
– Access: The lakes are within driving distance from Nairobi, 2–3 hours’ drive from Lake Nakuru and 1 hour of Lake Baringo. Around 5 hours from Lake Naivasha to change the location, and approximately 2 hours to get to Lake Elementaita. These major roads bear great tarmac and hiring a car or getting a guided tour to these lakes is easy to locate.
– Transportation: preference for more organized forms of tours that offer direct transport which makes the trip and adds to it by providing insider knowledge. However, hiring a car allows flexibility in the movement within the region as a client is able to stop and enjoy different areas of interest.
- Accommodation
– Lake Nakuru: Most lodges vary from luxury ones that are situated in the park to budget ones in Nakuru town and others in the park. Some of the lodges have picture-perfect views of the lake while others have close proximity to wildlife.
– Lake Naivasha: Accommodation of all ranges is available around Lake Naivasha predominantly in lodges by the lake, safari camps, or even simple hotels. Some of the facilities found in the lodges include boat hire, and special guided tours among others.
– Lake Elementaita: There are luxurious and standard hotels that offer visitors a perfect stay and serene surroundings near and around Lake Elementaita.
- Best Time to Visit
– Dry Season (June to October): For wildlife viewing, trying the dry season especially for trekking around the Great Rift Valley lakes because animals are at times compelled to drink water. The climate is also relatively moderate and therefore favors most of the physical activities that people engage in.
– Wet Season (November to May): Wet: during this period vegetation is green, a variety of birds are likely to be sighted and this is a good season for watching the birds. However, some of the areas may be restricted by rain and so it is recommended that one should take a Kol fact check of the weather conditions.
- What to Bring
– Essentials: Pack sunblock, hat, and insect repellent particularly if one is visiting during the wet season. Shoes for walking and light casual wear are advisable if one has to be involved in physical activities when outside.
– Binoculars and Camera: For bird watching and taking pictures of wildlife, a pair of binoculars and a good camera with a telescope-like lens is required to capture good pictures. A camera with a waterproof feature is ideal when taking photos of the lake and any water activities.
– Personal Items: Please remember to come with your own water bottle which can be refilled, snacks, and anything else you would need during the participation in the tour. There are occasions where some of the lodges or parks have very poor endowments, so one has to be prepared.
Conclusion
Lakes in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya are natural and beautiful and always give to tourists unique and unforgettable views. Moving from the winged jewel of Lake Nakuru, which is located in the central environs of the country, to the calm waters of Lake Naivasha and then to the absolute tranquility of Lake Elementaita, each has its own prospects of discovery and fun. If you are a nature lover or at least an admirer of wildlife or if you just need a repose, the Great Rift Valley lakes will not be uninteresting or unfruitful for you.
