Stretching across Kenya and other countries in East and Southern Africa, the Great Rift Valley extends thousands of kilometers from the Gulf of Aden in the North to Zimbabwe in the South. This deep crevasse creates exceptional landscapes in western Kenya, where safari freedom awaits at every turn.

Represented by the former Rift Valley province, this African natural wonder is the grand bed of Africa's deepest lakes. The Great Rift Valley invites you to discover one of the world's most impressive freshwater ecosystems. The region teems with savanna animals and a remarkable diversity of bird species.

These vast bodies of water reveal a breathtaking natural setting as they merge with plains, geysers, marshlands, mountains and rift faults.

Key facts about the Great Rift Valley

The term Great Rift Valley was coined by Scottish explorer John Walter Gregory to describe the great East African fault line. The fault in Kenya extends over 32,034 hectares.

You may be surprised to learn that due to the faults, the region's rivers and lakes continue to deepen. According to predictions, the Great Rift Valley will divide the African continent in two in the coming millions of years.

The Great Rift Valley is believed to be the birthplace of humanity. Fossils dating back several million years have been discovered in Baringo District and around Lake Turkana.

Great Rift Valley: the primary home of the Maasai and Samburu peoples

An expedition through the former Rift Valley province will give you the chance to encounter the Maasai and Samburu. These tribes still preserve their own traditions and way of life, largely untouched by Western cultural influences.

The great lakes of the Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley lake system has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. This network comprises three alkaline lakes: Lake Nakuru, Lake Elmenteita and Lake Bogoria. Beyond these three interconnected basins, the valley is also home to the renowned Lake Turkana, Lake Baringo, Lake Magadi, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Logipi. Lake Turkana is today listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Danger.

If you are a bird enthusiast, the valley's lakes will enchant you without question. These waters are breeding grounds for most of the region's birds: great white pelicans among them. The lakes also serve as stopover points for many migratory birds. Thirteen species of threatened birds are located around the lakes.

In the depths of the valley's lakes lives a large concentration of cichlids, with nearly 800 species recorded. They are also home to crocodiles and amphibians.

If you're seeking to relax and rejuvenate, head to Lake Elmenteita and its hot springs!

The Lake Baringo and Lake Nakuru will astound you with their thousands of flamingos.

Be aware that these lakes and their surrounding forests sustain a large portion of Kenya's population.

Unique and incredible wildlife

Beyond the myriad birds that inhabit the region, the Rift Valley province is home to several mammal populations. The lacustrine landscapes of the Great Rift Valley will astound you with the richness of African wildlife. You'll spot giraffes, zebras, gazelles, buffalo, greater kudus…

Near the lakes, you'll find hippopotamuses, gorillas…

What to do in the Great Rift Valley?

During your escape to the Great Rift Valley, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Explore volcanoes on a trek
• Arrange a photographic safari in the parks
• Enjoy a picnic
• Admire the flamingos of Baringo and Nakuru and the region's wildlife

Must-see attractions of the Great Rift Valley

Amboseli National Park

The renowned Amboseli National Park lies in the southern part of the Great Rift Valley. This 392 km² nature reserve stands out for its views of Mount Kilimanjaro on the horizon. Amboseli is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its richly diverse ecosystem: mammals, birds, reptiles…

Lake Nakuru and National Park

Declared a true paradise for ornithologists, Lake Nakuru is home to no fewer than 500 bird species. This jewel of East Africa attracts tourists especially for the large colony of pink birds that dominate the area. It's often called "the pink lake".

A place you absolutely must photograph! Nakuru remains a pristine location where countless pink flamingos grace the landscape. These birds mingle with black rhinos, white pelicans and other animals to create the lake's vibrant population.

The Lake Nakuru National Park is the ideal spot to observe African savanna wildlife: the big five, baboons, ostriches, giraffes…

Masai Mara National Park

Nestled in southwestern Kenya, this nature reserve is the country's most visited park. Masai Mara presents itself as the extension of Tanzania's Serengeti Park. This reserve offers an impressive spectacle during the migration of various mammal herds crossing the Mara River. The area also hosts numerous animals, including predators.

Hiking through the most renowned trails of the region.

Mount Longonot National Park

Mount Longonot attracts hikers with its magnificent views over the valley. It rises to 2,776 m and offers approximately 1.5 hours of climbing. A crater awaits you at the park's summit.

Menengai Volcano

A splendid volcanic landscape, Menengaï allows you to climb a volcano whose peak reaches over 2,700 m. Boasting the country's largest crater, the volcano's summit offers a unique and striking panorama featuring lava flows, lush vegetation, red cliffs… The visit can be done on foot or by 4x4.

Hell's Gate National Park

The name may sound odd, but this Hell's Gate National Park turns out to be a true natural paradise. Located near Lake Naivasha, this 69 km² national park presents incredible rocky landscapes. Far removed from savanna predators, this place is perfect for a walking or biking safari.

Practical information

Climate overview

Compared to other regions in Kenya, the Great Rift Valley's climate is rather mild. Heat levels aren't very high even in full daylight. The average temperature recorded is 29°C in the northern part and 16°C around the lakes. The rainy season occurs primarily between March and May, but also between October and December.

Among the possible alternatives for visiting the Great Rift Valley, you can:

• Rent a private vehicle: for a safari, it's best to choose a 4x4 or jeep to better navigate this part of East Africa.
• Travel by bike: to visit Hell's Gate National Park, you can rent a bike for approximately €4.
• Travel by bus: to move from one city to another, you can make the journey by bus.
• Explore on foot in the parks with a local guide