Lake Elementaita sits just south of the celebrated Lake Nakuru. Like its neighbour, it is equally renowned for its impressive bird populations.

Lake Elementaita, one of the jewels of the Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley captivates with its dramatic lakes. While Lake Nakuru enjoys considerable fame, Lake Elementaita often remains less known. Yet this is a destination that truly deserves travellers' attention.

Indeed, alongside Lakes Bogoria and Nakuru, this saline expanse spanning 18 km² forms the world's largest feeding ground for lesser flamingos. Thirteen threatened bird species also make their home here. It comes as no surprise that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Typically, Lake Elementaita does not exceed one metre in depth. Moreover, it is rimmed by mudflats encrusted with trona during the dry seasons. Its name derives from the word "muteita," which translates as "dusty places," a reference to the arid terrain of this region. This lake was occasionally connected to Lake Nakuru during the late Pleistocene and early Holocene, forming a much larger, diluted body of water. Traces of this connection are preserved in sediment layers at various points around the lake.

Lake Elementaita saw its first European settlement in the nineteenth century, when Lord Delamere established the Soysambu ranch (190 square kilometres) on its western shore. Later, this landowner granted the land on the opposite lakeside to his brother-in-law, Galbraith Lowry Egerton Cole. The Soysambu ranch remains in the hands of Lord Delamere's descendants. Today it operates as a conservancy, encompassing a vast expanse representing two-thirds of the lake's shoreline, with a population of more than 12,000 wild animals.

Lake Elementaita gained Ramsar site status in 2005. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site followed in 2011.

Activities

Bird watching

This is the principal tourist activity at Lake Elementaita. Over 400 bird species frequent its waters. Harbouring crustacean and insect larvae as well as blue-green algae, it attracts countless greater and lesser flamingos. However, their populations have declined in recent years due to the presence of tilapia, introduced to Lake Magadi in 1962. Fish-eating birds attracted to tilapia also feed on flamingo eggs. It is estimated that approximately one million birds that once bred at Elementaita have relocated to Lake Natron in Tanzania to find refuge.

Observing other wildlife

Visiting Lake Elementaita also offers the opportunity to encounter mammals, though they are not abundant. You may encounter zebras, elands, gazelles, warthogs and Rothschild's giraffes.

Picnicking and camping

You can enjoy a picnic in the heart of the bush. And should you wish to immerse yourself further in the unique atmosphere of the thornbush plains, camping is an excellent option. Listen to the melodious chorus of birds and keep watch for the unexpected arrival of zebra herds. As night falls, marvel at the beauty of the star-filled sky.

Hot air ballooning

It is possible to soar above the sublime waters of the lake and admire its thousands of birds from a hot air balloon. An experience that will certainly remain etched in your memory.

Hiking

A keen hiker? Then venture along the trails that wind through woodland and grassland, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. If you prefer to conserve your energy, another option for exploring the lake's environs is a quad bike excursion.

Visiting the Kikopey hot springs

Geothermal springs are found within the expansive Kikopey farm. The farm's spa features spacious pools suited to both adults and children. Thanks to their mineral composition, these basins promote blood circulation and help eliminate toxins from the body.

Practical Information

When to visit the lake?

For an optimal experience, it is recommended to visit Lake Elementaita during the dry months: June through October and January and February. During these periods, infrequent rainfall keeps roads dry and easily navigable. These climatic conditions also allow you to fully enjoy all the activities the lake has to offer, whether bird watching, safaris or simply relaxing by the water.

To reach Lake Elementaita from Nairobi, take the Nairobi–Nakuru highway and enter the lake region via the Nderit gate of Lake Nakuru National Park. The journey from Kenya's capital takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

If you plan to arrive at Lake Elementaita by air, depart from Wilson Airport to one of the airstrips near Naivasha, then continue your journey by road to the lake.