Soi Lodge

Lake Baringo Activities

Activities and what to do while your in Lake Baringo includes:
A visit to Lake Baringo. Many of the Kenyan Rift Valley lakes are known for their birdlife, and in particular the concentrations of Flamingoes, but because of Baringo's freshwater properties Flamingoes tend to stay away. The lake is home to more than 470 species of birds however - many of which breed on and around the lake. It is an important stop for migratory birds - both inter-Africa and globally. Lake Baringo has seven fish species with the Nile Tilapia been endemic. Fishing is an important part of the socio-economics of the region. The numbers of Nile Perch have declined markedly in Lake Baringo over the years, but this may have to do with the proliferation of the African Lungfish which was introduced into the lake in the 1970's. The Lungfish is now the most important food source from the lake. The area is also home to a number of species such as Hippo, Crocodile, Zebra, Klipspringer, Grant's gazelle, Chandler's Mountain Reedbuck, and the rare Greater Kudu.

Lake Baringo Geology
Lake Baringo has several islands such as Ol Kokwe Island which has hot springs and fumaroles, some of which have precipitated sulphur deposits. The area is also important for its archaeological and palaeontological sites, where important hominid fossil discoveries have been made.

Visiting Lake Baringo
The area is becoming more popular as a tourist destination despite floods and unrest in the central west parts of Kenya. A range of accommodation is available in the region and boat hire is also easy. Main road access to Lake Baringo is directly from Nakuru by private transport. The nearest town to the lake is Kampi ya Samaki.