Lake Baringo | Kenya Rift Valley Lakes Safari Guide

Lake Baringo 

Lake Baringo is a freshwater lake lying in the heart of Great Rift Valley in Kenya. The Lake offers unique safari experience with its diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Lake Baringo is famous for its diverse birdlife, with over 470 species recorded in the area. The Lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts. It is home to various species such as flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, and fish eagles. The Lake is also known for its unique islands, including Ol Kokwe Island, famous for its hot springs.

africa birding

Information Facts

  • Location: Lake Baringo is located in the remote west-central region of Kenya, part of the East African Rift Valley. It is the most northern of the Kenyan Rift Valley lakes after Lake Turkana.
  • Inlet and Outlet: The lake is fed by several rivers, including the Molo, Perkerra, and Ol Arabel, but it has no visible outlet. The water is assumed to seep into the lake sediments and into the faulted volcanic bedrock.
  • Freshwater Lake: Lake Baringo is one of only two freshwater lakes in the Rift Valley in Kenya, along with Lake Naivasha.
  • Birdlife: The lake is home to over 470 species of birds, including many migratory birds. It is known for its birdlife.
  • Fish Species: The lake has seven fish species, including the endemic Nile Tilapia.
  • Mammals and Reptiles: The lake supports a variety of mammals, including hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, zebra, and greater kudu.

Lake Baringo National Park Safaris and Tours

Lake Baringo Activities 

There are a variety of activities available at Lake Baringo National Park, including: 

Flamingo Watching

The lake is famous for its large population of flamingos. Visitors can enjoy watching these birds as they feed on the blue-green algae in the lake.

Cycling

Visitors can also explore the area by bicycle. This provides a chance to see the hot springs, geysers, and other natural features up close.

Boat Ride

Boat rides are available on the lake, offering excellent views of the flamingos and other bird species.

Nature Walks

Nature walks allow visitors to see the diverse wildlife. The wildlife includes herbivores like zebras and antelopes, and predators like cheetahs and leopards.

Camping

There are several camping sites around the lake, including the Fig Tree Campsite. It is a favorite site due to its shade and proximity to a cool water stream.

Hot Springs

The reserve is home to numerous hot springs, including the famous “Devil’s Kitchen,” where visitors can boil eggs and enjoy the geothermal activity. 

Bird Watching

The area around Lake Baringo is home to several ethnic groups. This offers visitors opportunities to learn about local culture, traditions, and customs. Visitors can go for tour round the villages, and enjoy traditional music and dance performances. They can also interact with local artisans.

Cultural Experiences

Birdwatching: The reserve is home to an estimated 135 bird species, with over 50 migratory species recorded. Some of birds’ species found at lake Baringo include; Goliath heron, African eagle, Black-tailed godwit, Red-billed duck, Narina trogon.

Best Time to Visit Lake Baringo

The best time to visit Lake Baringo is during the dry season, which runs from July to September and January to March. The weather is warm and dry during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Visiting during the rainy seasons (March to June and October to December) can be challenging due to slippery trails and unpredictable weather.

Kenya Birding safari

Lake Baringo Features and Attractions 

Lake Baringo National Park offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy, including: 

  • Lake Baringo itself, with its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife
  • The islands of Ol Kokwe and Samatian, which can be explored by boat
  • The Tugen Hills and Laikipia Escarpment, which offer breathtaking views of the Lake and surrounding area
  • The Kerubo Swamp, which is home to over 200 species of birds
Hell's gate national park

Safety Guides & Tips 

As with any safari destination, taking precautions is important when visiting Lake Baringo. Visitors should always hire a guide to guide them around the Lake and keep a safe distance from wildlife.

Lake Baringo Accommodation

Several accommodation options are available at Lake Baringo, ranging from campsites to luxury lodges, including:

  • Bush Baby Camp, which offers camping grounds, cottages, and bandas,
  • Soi Safari Lodge, which offers comfortable tents with stunning views of the Lake
  • Samatian Island Camp, which is located on a small island in the Lake
Birding safari

Lake Baringo FAQs

Lake Baringo is accessible by road from Nairobi, approximately 240km and a 5-hour drive. Visitors can also fly into nearby airports such as Eldama Ravine or Kabarnet.

Lake Baringo is located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. The lake in in the north-western part of the country and borders both Baringo County and Nakuru County.

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