Lake Bogoria and Lake Baringo: Flamingos, Hot Springs and Birdlife
Explore the Rift Valley lakes of Bogoria and Baringo: geysers, flamingos, boat trips and some of Kenya's best birding.
Destination guide
Lake Baringo: the complete guide
Lake Baringo is one of Kenya's two freshwater Rift Valley lakes, and one of the country's best birdwatching destinations. Large crocodiles bask on its shores, hippos graze at night, and fish eagles are called down from their perches by local boatmen. Rocky cliffs and acacia scrub surround the lake, and it feels very different from the savannah parks.
Here is what to do at Baringo, when to go and how to get there.
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Tours featuring Lake Baringo
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Why visit Lake Baringo
Baringo is hot and dry, but the lake supports a lively community of fish, birds and reptiles. Hippos and crocodiles live in the water, and the shoreline and nearby cliffs are home to a huge variety of birds, including many rare species.
Local boatmen take visitors out to see hippos, pelicans, herons and the famous fish eagle feeding display. Walking along the shore and cliffs with an experienced bird guide is just as rewarding.
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What to do at Baringo
Boat trip
A morning boat ride gets you close to hippos, crocodiles and water birds, and includes the fish eagle feeding.
Bird walks
Dawn walks with local guides are the best way to find the area's many species.
Ruko Conservancy
See endangered Rothschild's giraffe in a community conservancy near the lake.
Cultural visits
Meet the Njemps people on the lake islands and the Tugen on the hills.
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Best time to visit
November to March
Great
Migratory birds are present and the weather is warm and dry.
June to October
Great
Dry, with good visibility and comfortable boat trips.
April to May
Green/Wet
Rains and hotter, more humid days.
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How to get to Lake Baringo
By road
About 5 hours from Nairobi via Nakuru and Marigat.
Where to stay
Lodges and camps sit on the lake shore. Tell us your budget and we will recommend one.
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Combining Baringo with other lakes
Pair Baringo with Lake Bogoria for hot springs and flamingos, then Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Baringo good for birding?
Yes, it is one of Kenya's top birdwatching destinations, with hundreds of species.
Can you swim in Lake Baringo?
No. There are crocodiles and hippos in the lake.
How many days should I stay?
Two nights lets you do a boat trip, bird walks and Ruko Conservancy.
Read before you go
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