Lake Elementaita - Discovering Kenya

Travelling to Lake Elementaita

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lake Elementaita, a pretty good destination in Kenya (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lake Elementaita and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lake Elementaita, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Kenya, here's everything to know about Lake Elementaita for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lake Elementaita

Lake Elementaita is a saltwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Kenya Lake System, which also includes Lakes Nakuru and Bogoria. The lake is fed by hot springs and small streams and is an important habitat for various bird species including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. There are also several archaeological sites around the lake, including the Kariandusi prehistoric site. Visitors can enjoy activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and game drives in the nearby Soysambu Wildlife Conservancy.

What to visit in Lake Elementaita

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Lake Elementaita, Kenya: 1. Lake Elementaita: This picturesque lake is home to a variety of birds, including pelicans, flamingos, and storks. Visitors can take boat trips on the lake and enjoy bird watching.
2. Kariandusi Museum: This museum showcases the archaeology and culture of the people who lived in the prehistoric area around Lake Elementaita. It has a collection of artifacts such as stone tools and human bones.
3. Lord Egerton Castle: This massive castle was built in the early 20th century by Lord Maurice Egerton. It has over 50 rooms, secret passages, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle.
4. Hiking and Safari: Lake Elementaita is surrounded by beautiful hills and plains, making it a great place for hiking and safari tours. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and baboons.
5. Hot Springs: There are several hot springs around Lake Elementaita, including the Kikopey Hot Springs and Geothermal Spa. Visitors can relax in the warm waters and enjoy the therapeutic benefits.
6. Sleeping Warrior Hill: This is a famous hill near Lake Elementaita, named for its shape which resembles a warrior lying on his back. Hiking to the top of the hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Overall, Lake Elementaita offers a great mix of nature, culture, and adventure for visitors to Kenya.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Kenya, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Lake Elementaita

The best time to visit Lake Elementaita is during the dry season which runs from June to October and from December to March. During these periods, the weather is usually sunny and dry with less rainfall. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the stunning landscapes surrounding the lake. However, keep in mind that the dry season is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to May and November when the crowds are thinner and prices are lower, but there is a higher chance of rain.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lake Elementaita

To get to Lake Elementaita in Kenya, you can follow these steps: 1. Book a flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya.
2. From Nairobi, you can hire a car or take a taxi for a 2-hour drive to Lake Elementaita. Alternatively, you can take a matatu (shared taxi) from Nairobi to Nakuru and then another matatu from Nakuru to Lake Elementaita.
3. If you prefer organized tours, there are many tour operators that offer day trips or overnight stays to Lake Elementaita from Nairobi.
4. Once you reach Lake Elementaita, there are several activities you can enjoy, including bird watching, game drives, nature walks, and hot springs. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat as the weather can get hot during the day.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lake Elementaita, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lake Elementaita

Lake Elementaita is located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya and is home to a variety of delicious and unique foods. Here are some of the typical foods you can find around Lake Elementaita: 1. Ugali - This is a staple food in Kenya made from maize flour and water. It is usually served with stew or vegetables and can be found served with any meal.
2. Nyama choma - This is a popular grilled meat dish in Kenya, usually consisting of beef, goat or mutton, served with kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad) and ugali or chips (french fries).
3. Sukuma wiki - This is a vegetable dish made from kale or cabbage, and is usually cooked with onions and tomatoes. It is often served with ugali or chapati (a type of flat bread).
4. Chapati - This is a type of flatbread originally from India but popular in Kenya. It is made from wheat flour, water, and oil, and is often served with stews or vegetables.
5. Pilau - This is a fragrant rice dish made with a mix of spices, including cumin, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. It usually includes meat or vegetables and is often served during festive occasions.
6. Matoke - This is a type of plantain banana that is boiled and mashed. It is often served with stew or vegetables.
7. Mandazi - This is a sweet fried doughnut-like pastry that is often served with tea or coffee in the morning or as a dessert.
8. Samosas - These are small triangular pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables, often served as a snack or appetizer.
9. Mutura - This is a dish made from a combination of goat meat, intestines, and other spices, all wrapped in a sausage skin. It is often served with kachumbari and can be found in local street food stalls.
These are just a few of the typical foods you can find around Lake Elementaita. The food in Kenya is flavorful and diverse, so be sure to try as much as you can during your visit.
You can find general info about typical foods in Kenya here.

Is Lake Elementaita an expensive destination for tourists?

Lake Elementaita is not considered an expensive destination for tourists in Kenya. The accommodation options around the lake include budget-friendly hotels, luxury lodges and campsites. The activities around the lake are also affordable, such as bird watching, game drives and hiking. However, the cost of visiting Lake Elementaita depends on the travel style, season and specific activities chosen by the tourist. It is always advisable to compare prices of services offered by different providers to find the best deal.

Where to find accomodation in Lake Elementaita

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Lake Elementaita in Kenya are the towns of Naivasha and Nakuru. Both towns are within a reasonable distance from the lake, with Naivasha being about 22 km away and Nakuru about 36 km away. These towns offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses and campsites to luxury resorts and lodges. Naivasha and Nakuru also offer easy access to other popular tourist attractions in the area, such as Lake Nakuru National Park and Hell's Gate National Park.
You can check hotel prices at Lake Elementaita here:
Booking.com

Is Lake Elementaita a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Lake Elementaita in Kenya is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Always stay aware of your surroundings, keep your valuables secure, and follow any local safety recommendations. It's also a good idea to travel with a reputable tour operator or guide who can provide valuable local insights and help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Kenya here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lake Elementaita.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lake Elementaita the most?

Lake Elementaita in Kenya is a beautiful destination that caters to a variety of travelers. Here's a breakdown of the types of travelers who will enjoy the place the most: 1. Couples: Lake Elementaita offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere which makes it the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. They can enjoy the beautiful sunsets by the lake or take a stroll along the pristine shores, while also indulging in some adventure activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing and camping.
2. Families: Families would find Lake Elementaita to be an excellent destination, especially those with young children. They can have a fun-filled adventure as they explore the wildlife and learn about the local Maasai culture by visiting the nearby villages. The lake itself provides a unique opportunity for a family picnic, birdwatching, and boat rides.
3. Nature Lovers and Photographers: The lake offers breathtaking views that would be a delight for nature lovers and photographers. They can enjoy the spectacular scenery, capture stunning photographs of the lake, and also get a chance to witness the amazing birdlife.
In summary, Lake Elementaita is an excellent destination for couples, young people looking for fun, families, and nature lovers. People who are adventurous and seek adventure would benefit most from a visit to this incredible place.

How to get around Lake Elementaita

The most common modes of transportation to move around Lake Elementaita in Kenya are private car hires, taxis, and tuk-tuks (a three-wheeled motor vehicle). Matatus (mini-buses) and buses are also available, but they are not as frequent as other modes of transportation. Additionally, some lodges and hotels around the lake offer shuttle services that provide transportation to and from the main attractions.

What to see around Lake Elementaita

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Lake Elementaita: 1. Lake Nakuru National Park - It's a great place to see flamingos, rhinos, lions and other wildlife.
2. Menengai Crater - Menengai is a dormant volcano with a stunning crater and offers great views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site - The site is great for those interested in archaeology and offers a glimpse of prehistoric life.
4. Kariandusi Museum - This is another archaeological site that offers a great insight into the lives of early human beings.
5. Lake Bogoria National Reserve - It's a great place to see boiling geysers, hot springs and flamingos.
6. Hells Gate National Park - It's a great place for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.
7. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary - It's a small private sanctuary that offers walking safaris, bird watching, and stunning views of the Crater Lake.
These are just a few options, but there are many more places to explore in the area!
For every travel information about Kenya you can click here.

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