Lake Bogoria

Lake Bogoria

Lake Bogoria is located north of Lake Nakuru and south of Lake Baringo, just off Kenya’s B4 Highway. The lake covers an area of approximately 30 square kilometres and has a maximum depth of about 9 metres.

This long, narrow soda lake is surrounded by spectacular scenery. The dramatic Siracho Escarpment rises along the western side, while the northeastern slopes of the Aberdare Range form part of the eastern landscape. These natural features make Lake Bogoria one of Kenya’s most scenic Rift Valley lakes.

Hot Springs and Geysers

Lake Bogoria is well known for its natural hot springs and geysers. Boiling water rises from underground and releases clouds of steam into the air. These geothermal features create a unique landscape and are among the park’s most popular attractions.

Visitors can walk along designated viewing areas to observe the bubbling springs and steaming geysers while enjoying views of the surrounding Rift Valley.

Flamingos and Conservation

Although Lake Nakuru is famous for its large flocks of flamingos, Lake Bogoria is one of the most important breeding and feeding areas for these birds. The lake’s shallow alkaline waters provide ideal conditions for flamingos, which build their nests from mud along the shoreline when breeding conditions are suitable.

In 2000, Lake Bogoria was designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in recognition of its outstanding ecological value. It is also protected as a National Reserve, helping to conserve its unique wildlife, birdlife, and geothermal features.

Not far from the shore of Lake Bogoria there are hot springs and geysers as a result of the volcanic activity in the Great Rift Valley. There are other wildlife than the flamingos to see at Lake Bogoria; Leopard, greater Kudu, Klipspringers and Caracal. You can walk or cycle unaccompanied in the Reserve as far as the springs, but if you want to venture beyond this point, you need permission from the warden who can supply you with an armed ranger for protection. The Kesubo Swamp just North of the lake is a heaven for bird-watchers and the swamp holds the Kenyan record for the largest number of species seen in one hour (96 species of birds).

There are two entrance gates to Lake Bogoria – Emsos in the South and Loboi in the northern part of the National Reserve. There are three places to stay at Bogoria; Fig Tree Camp, Payrus Inn and Lake Bogoria Hotel.

In the picture to the left side, a Goliath Heron is overlooking the Kesubo swamp just north of Lake Bogoria