Lake Elementaita lies just a short distance south of the renowned Lake Nakuru. Like the latter, it is equally celebrated for its impressive bird population.

Lake Elementaita, One of the Jewels of the Great Rift Valley

The Great Rift Valley captivates with its spectacular lakes. While Lake Nakuru enjoys widespread fame, Lake Elementaita often remains less known. Yet it is a destination that deserves the attention of discerning travelers.

Indeed, alongside lakes Bogoria and Nakuru, this saltwater expanse covering 18 km² forms the world's largest feeding ground for lesser flamingos. Thirteen threatened bird species also inhabit these waters. It comes as no surprise, then, that it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Lake Elementaita typically does not exceed one meter in depth. Moreover, it is bordered by mudflats encrusted with trona during the dry seasons. Its name derives from the word "muteita," which translates to "dusty places," alluding to the arid landscape of this region. This lake was occasionally connected to Lake Nakuru during the late Pleistocene and early Holocene, forming a far more extensive diluted water body. Traces of this connection are preserved in the form of sediments at various locations around the lake.

Lake Elementaita welcomed its first European settlement in the nineteenth century, when Lord Delamere established the Soysambu ranch (190 square kilometers) on its western shore. Subsequently, he granted lands on the opposite bank of the lake to his brother-in-law, Galbraith Lowry Egerton Cole. The Soysambu ranch remains under the ownership of Lord Delamere's descendants. It is today a conservancy encompassing a vast expanse representing two-thirds of the lake's shoreline, with a population exceeding 12,000 wild animals.

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

Activities

Birdwatching

This is the primary tourist activity at Lake Elementaita. More than 400 bird species frequent the lake. Hosting crustacean larvae, insects and blue-green algae, it attracts countless greater and lesser flamingos. However, their populations have declined today due to the presence of tilapia, introduced to Lake Magadi in 1962. Indeed, piscivorous birds attracted to tilapia also feed on flamingo eggs. It is estimated that one million birds that once reproduced at Elementaita have relocated to Lake Natron in Tanzania in search of refuge.

Observing Other Wildlife

A visit to Lake Elementaita also offers the opportunity to observe mammals, though they are not particularly abundant. You will encounter notably zebras, elands, gazelles, warthogs and Rothschild's giraffes.

Picnicking and Camping

You can enjoy a picnic in the heart of the bush. And if you wish to immerse yourself further in the unique atmosphere of the scrubland plains, camp beneath the stars. Listen to the melodious songs of birds and watch for the unexpected visit of zebras. As night falls, marvel at the beauty of the starlit 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 hiking enthusiast? Then traverse the trails that wind through forests and meadows, offering breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. If you prefer not to expend too much energy, another option for exploring the lake's environs is a quad bike excursion.

Visiting the Kikopey Hot Springs

Hot springs are located on the expansive Kikopey farm. The farm's spa offers spacious pools, suitable for both adults and children. Thanks to their mineral composition, these basins promote blood circulation and contribute to the elimination of 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 through February. During these periods, infrequent rainfall keeps the roads dry and thus easy to traverse. These climatic conditions also allow you to fully enjoy all activities offered by the lake, whether birdwatching, safaris or simply relaxing by the water.

To reach Lake Elementaita from Nairobi, take the Nairobi-Nakuru highway to enter the lake region via the Nderit gate of Lake Nakuru National Park. The journey from Kenya's capital takes 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 car to the lake.