Lake Elementaita does not get the attention of its neighbours, and that is part of its charm. It is a shallow soda lake in the Great Rift Valley, set between Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, with a scenic range of hills behind it and far fewer visitors than most of Kenya’s well-known parks.
A World Heritage lake
The lake is part of the Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site that also includes Lake Bogoria and Lake Nakuru. The water is alkaline, which supports algae that attract flamingos and other waterbirds, particularly when conditions are right.
What you can see
- Flamingos and pelicans. Numbers change with water levels and food supply, so ask your guide what is currently on the lake.
- Rothschild’s giraffes. The surrounding conservancy is home to this endangered giraffe, and it is a great place to see them in a quiet setting.
- Zebra, buffalo and antelope. Wildlife wanders freely on the conservancy land around the lake.
- The Sleeping Warrior. This is the name for the hills that, from the right angle, look like a resting figure.
Things to do
Game drives, guided walks and birding are the main activities. Some lodges also offer horse riding, mountain biking and cave visits in the surrounding hills. Walking safaris are available in certain areas and are a good way to see small details like tracks and plants.
When to go
Elementaita can be visited all year. The dry seasons, from June to October and December to February, are best for game viewing and for comfortable travel on the roads. Bird numbers vary through the year, so if flamingos are a priority, check recent sightings before you finalise plans.
How it fits in your trip
Elementaita is about halfway between Nairobi and the Mara in terms of travel time, so it makes a natural stop. Pair it with Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate and Lake Nakuru National Park for a Rift Valley circuit. Our Amboseli safari and longer routes often include a lake stop on the way. You can see the park page for Lake Nakuru too.
Tips
- Bring binoculars and a good camera lens for birds.
- Carry layers, because mornings and evenings are cool at this altitude.
- Ask about walking activities, which are not offered at every property.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 8 Days Kenya Birding & Big Five Safari – Lake Bogoria, Nakuru, Maasai Mara & Naivasha
- 9-Day Kenya Birding Adventure – Samburu, Aberdare, Nakuru & Bogoria
- 5 Days Birdwatching Safari: Lake Bogoria & Lake Baringo
Keep reading: Lake Bogoria and Lake Baringo: Flamingos, Hot Springs and Birdlife.
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Plan it with us
Want a Rift Valley lake stop in your itinerary? Tell us your dates, group size and what you want to see, and our team will build a tailored quote. Send us an enquiry or message us on WhatsApp.
Lake elementaita: Key Takeaways
The main points on lake elementaita are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on lake elementaita, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
