Shimmering, wildlife-rich lakes in the heart of the Rift Valley
Rift Valley Lakes
Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is absolutely stunning. The dramatic outcrops and thickets of dense forest are home to fantastic birds and mammals, but few locations are as lively as the Rift Valley Lakes. Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is absolutely stunning. The dramatic outcrops and thickets of dense forest are home to fantastic birds and mammals, but few locations are as lively as the Rift Valley Lakes.
Why the Rift Valley Lakes?
So important is the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley that UNESCO recognised it for Outstanding Universal Value in 2011. Lake Nakuru, Lake Elementaita and Lake Bogoria – the latter known for its geothermal hot springs – are alkaline lakes supporting an astounding number of species. Birds especially thrive here, with millions of flamingos moving between the Great Rift lakes throughout the year.
Freshwater Lake Naivasha is home to hundreds of hippos and more than 400 species of birds and is ideal for a boating safari. The enormous Lake Turkana requires an air charter to properly access, but as the world’s largest desert lake and a haven for Nile crocodile, it’s worth the extra effort. Visiting multiple lakes in the Rift Valley is ideal and requires careful planning to appreciate the nuances between lakes.
Freshwater Lake Naivasha is home to hundreds of hippos and more than 400 species of birds and is ideal for a boating safari. The enormous Lake Turkana requires an air charter to properly access, but as the world’s largest desert lake and a haven for Nile crocodile, it’s worth the extra effort. Visiting multiple lakes in the Rift Valley is ideal and requires careful planning to appreciate the nuances between lakes.
- Extraordinary lakes amid dramatic valley landscapes.
- Each lake is unique in setting with bountiful wildlife.
- Particularly favourable for birdwatching.
- Perfect for safari by boat.
- Versatile options for planning alongside other regions in Kenya.
Best Places to Stay in the Rift Valley Lakes
Chui Lodge
Chui Lodge is one of the most comfortable small lodges in the Rift Valley and offers a diverse range of activities. Guests can enjoy a variety of safari activities both in the Oserian Private Wildlife Sanctuary and in the wider Rift Valley. They include visits to Lake Naivasha – one of only two freshwater lakes in the valley – the alkaline Lake Nakuru where lesser and greater flamingos gather in large numbers, and the spectacular rock formations of Hell’s Gate.
Loldia House
Loldia Houseis the most comfortable place to stay in this part of the Rift Valley and has a relaxing atmosphere, an excellent standard of cuisine, and is managed by an efficient and welcoming team of staff. Loldia was built in the 1940s by the present owner's grandfather and promises a gentle, slow and relaxing stay, ideal for the very beginning or end of your trip.
Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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