Rift Valley Lakes

There are eight Rift Valley Lakes in Kenya but the main attraction are the southern lakes of Baringo, Nakuru and Naivasha. These lakes reveal not only a vast wealth of birdlife - over 400 species are found on Lake Baringo alone, while perhaps the defining image of the region is of Lake Nakuru and its shores tinged pink with flamingo - but also hippo, crocodile and, near Lake Nakuru, a rhino sanctuary.

The rugged countryside surrounding the lakes is as much an attraction as the lakes themselves. Hill walking up peaks such as Longonot will afford the energetic traveller marvellous views over the lakes and the often-stunning environments that surround them.

While each of the Rift Valley lakes has its own unique appeal, the region as a whole offers the prospect of excellent game-viewing, either by boat, by vehicle in guided game drives, or on foot in the surrounding territories.

In and around the Rift Valley Lakes, Kenya
Game drives, boat safaris and walking are all possible in the region, along with fishing and other water activities on certain of the lakes.

Though many of the lakes, particularly Naivasha, are fringed by agricultural land, there are also significant tracts of wilderness to explore beyond the lakeshores. Lake Nakuru National Park incorporates both the lake and the savannah plains to its south, where rarities including rhino (black and white) and Rothschild's giraffe are protected, alongside leopard, lion and a mix of plains game.

To the south of Lake Naivasha is Hell's Gate National Park, a small park which excels at walking safaris and fly camping; a mobile camping safari here can be combined with a climb of Mt Longonot (see our Mt Longonot, Mt Kenya and Hell's Gate itinerary for an overview), making this a great option for those seeking a more active safari experience.

Of course, for those looking to unwind, the Rift Valley lakes offer a number of lovely lakeshore resorts where the emphasis is very much of leisurely boat safaris and relaxation. For those without the time or inclination to fly to the coast, the Rift Valley lakes can be a suitably relaxed way to end a busy safari or trekking itinerary.