Kenya's Great Rift Valley Lakes | Scenic Birds & Wildlife experience

The Kenyan lakes

Morning in the Winam Gulf of Lake Victoria just outside Kisumu. Photo © Mikkel Grabowski

Lake Turkana with an acacia tree in the foreground — View over the southern part of Lake Turkana with a single acacia tree in the foreground. Photo © Mikkel Grabowski

Kenya’s Lake System

The Kenya Lake System in The Great Rift Valley is – according to UNESCO, of outstanding Universal Value. The Kenya Lake System, a natural property of outstanding beauty, comprises three inter-linked relatively shallow lakes (Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita) in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya. These lakes are home to 13 globally threatened bird species and some of the highest bird diversities in the world. It is the single most important foraging site for the lesser flamingo anywhere, and a major nesting and breeding ground for great white pelicans.

<h2 data-section-id=”wf86y0″ data-start=”747″ data-end=”779″>Freshwater and Alkaline Lakes

The lakes are divided into two categories: 1) Freshwater lakes include Lake Victoria, Lake Naivasha, and Lake Baringo and 2) Alkaline lakes including Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, Lake Elmenteita, and Lake Magadi. Each lake has its own unique environment. Many are home to flamingos, pelicans, fish eagles, and numerous migratory birds. Their diverse habitats make Kenya one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa.

Lake Turkana

Another remarkable lake is Lake Turkana, located in northern Kenya. It is the world’s largest permanent desert lake and the largest alkaline lake. The northern part of the lake extends into Ethiopia.

Although the water is safe to drink in some areas, its mineral content gives it a distinct taste. Lake Turkana is famous for its dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich archaeological history, making it one of Kenya’s most fascinating natural attractions.</p>

Fish and Wildlife in African Lakes

Most of the lakes have huge populations of tilapia fish, which are very tasty. Large Nile perch, some weighing 100 to 200 kg, are also found in Lake Turkana and Lake Victoria.

The Nile perch was probably introduced to Lake Victoria in the 1960s. This had catastrophic results. The powerful predator almost wiped out many indigenous species of cichlids in the lake.

Many African lakes are also inhabited by hippos and crocodiles. Lake Victoria is home to spotted-necked otters as well. A wide variety of other animals can be seen along the shores. Many come to the lakes to drink and bathe.