Situated in west-central Kenya, Lake Baringo is a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, one of Africa’s most scenic geological formations.
It is located east of Kamasia Hills, at an average elevation of 3,200 ft (975 m) above sea level.
It is one of just two freshwater lakes in Kenya’s Rift Valley, next to Lake Naivasha, and offers unique opportunities for nature lovers and investors alike.
Where is it located, and geographical context
Lake Baringo is located in Baringo County, which is approximately 11,075 square kilometers.
It covers a large area but has a small population compared to the other counties.
The lake, which covers approximately 130 square kilometers (50 square miles), will surely be a hit with those wanting to explore natural Kenya.
Importance as a Freshwater Body
It is a valuable habitat for many species of birds and fish. Lake Baringo has been famously described as Africa’s birdwatching paradise.
More than 470 species are logged in the area: migratory birds arrive from all over Africa and beyond. It is also home to various wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Depth
Area: About 130 square kilometers (50 square miles)
Length: Approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) long.
Width: About 8 kilometers (5 miles) across.
While earlier data had suggested the depth averaged to five meters or more, sedimentation from the disaster now ranges much closer to one meter.
Water Sources
A few rivers flow into Lake Baringo:
- Molo River
- Perkerra River
- Ol Arabel River.
However, no outlet is visible; water seeps through volcanic bedrock near its northern end.
Recent Water Level Changes
Over the past two decades, heavy flooding has drastically increased Lake Baringo’s water levels.
As a result, local communities have faced challenges such as damage to infrastructure and impacts on wildlife habitats.
This may be partly due to new sediment pile-up from its eroded neighbors.
Islands of Lake Baringo
Lake Baringo has several striking islands, each with something unique to offer. There are differences in how many islands are reported (some say seven, some thirteen); here are a few of the most known:
Ol Kokwe Island
It is the largest of the islands in Lake Baringo. There is a community here, the Njemps people, who have lived here for centuries. The island is home to various lodges and hot springs, popular attractions for tourists who want to relax in nature.
Samatian Island
Samatian Island The island is known for its picturesque views overlooking the lake and the surrounding areas.
Lokoros Island
Partly populated by local communities, Lokoros offers a glimpse into traditional living methods around the Lake Baringo area.
Rongena Island
It is home to various plants, which add to its natural beauty.
Parmolos Island
Seabird Sanctuary: The lush grounds provide habitat for several species.
Gibraltar Rock/Island
Known for its Goliath heronry, this rocky outcrop hosts a sizable colony of these spectacular birds.
Devils Island
Devil’s Island, also known as Lesuukat, is a fascinating island on Lake Baringo. The local legend and myth many believe is the habited spirits or devil. This contention has rendered the island uninhabited for centuries.
Wildlife in Lake Baringo
One of the richest wildlife sites is at Lake Baringo:
Mammals
Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius)- Commonly found along lake shores.
Crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus)- All over the lake area.
Birds
Lake Baringo is a birdwatching paradise where more than 450 species have been recorded here (some sources list over 470):
Species include pelican (Pelecanus spp.), cormorants (Phalacrocorax spp., fish eagles (Polemaetus bellicosus)
The only way to reach these islands is by boat or canoeing. Because of the wide variety of ecosystems, they are essential for fishing in the lake and provide opportunities to spot some unique birds.
Nearby Attractions
Lake Baringo is not unique in isolation. It is adjacent to other attractions, making it a perfect stop while touring the Rift Valley or on an African safari adventure in Kenya.
Distance from Nairobi
Approximate Distance- 290 km (180 miles) northwest of Nairobi
Travel Time- About four hours by car on good roads.
Distance from Nakuru
The distance from Nakuru town to Lake Baringo is about 119 km. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to drive there. The road distance is 160 km, and a further driving time of about 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Proximity to Other Lakes
Lake Bogoria is another popular tourist spot famous for its flamingos and geothermal hot springs, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of the Lake Bogoria border.
This close location makes it easy for visitors to mix and match with other attractions, such as Samburu National Reserve, on safari trips.
Samburu is mainly known for animals not found in the southern part of the country, including Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe.
Activities at Lake Baringo
Birdwatching Opportunities
Lake Baringo is famed for birdwatching and is home to a diverse avifauna:
More than 470 species have been recorded here, including pelicans (Pelecanus spp.), cormorants (Phalacrocorax spp.), fish eagles (Polemaetus bellicosus), and flamingos.
Over the migration season, EANHS fauna surveys demonstrated that Lake Naivasha is a vital stopover point for migratory bird routes through Central Africa, visiting among many species, Egrets, Rails, herons, and Osprey, as well as being home to large populations of many species of birds, fern nesting areas, etc.
Fishing Activities
Examples of species include Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus baringoensis) and African Lungfish (Protopterus aethiopicus), introduced into the lake decades ago5.
Introduced species, like the African Lungfish, are a much-needed food provider initially, but they later strongly impact native fish (Nile Perch) populations since their first arrival.
Boat Rides on the Lake
Boat tours on various parts of this beautiful lake allow visitors to see wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and several species of birds nest on nearby islands.
These boat rides provide an exhilarating means of traversing the natural beauty surrounding Lake Baringo.
Accommodation Options at or near Lake Baringo
Various lodges, such as those on Ol Kokwe Island, offer tourist accommodations.
This outline provides a comprehensive overview that includes your requested sections while maintaining clarity and organization.
Entrance Fees
There is no specific entrance fee to see Lake Baringo. The lake is free for the public, and you can access it by following the main highway in Marigat. There are other entrance points that you can use to access the lake.
This allows tourists to choose the activities they want to take, including boat rides, bird watching, fishing, or even looking at the wildlife.
The distance between lakes can vary slightly depending on the route taken but is generally around 30 km from Bogoria to Marigat town near Lake Baringo.
Places to Stay in Lake Baringo
Finding a place to stay at Lake Baringo should be easy as there are different types of accommodation to suit various preferences and budgets. They include everything from luxury lodges on islands to affordable guesthouses and tented camps.
Luxury Lodges
Samatian Island Lodge- Set on the Island of Samatian, this lodge boasts breathtaking views spanning Lake Baringo. It has cozy open-source cottages with private bathrooms, lounges, and a common dining area serving diners with panoramic views.
Island Camp Baringo- Located on an island in the lake, it is an ideal place for nature enthusiasts, with peaceful and quiet surroundings.
Mid-Range Accommodations
Sandai Resort Lake Baringo- Rooms include doubles and apartments, a restaurant, and an outdoor swimming pool45. It is located near Ol Kokwe.
Soi Safari Lodge- Mid-range comfort is located beautifully in the Rift Valley, close to Tugen Hills attractions.
6 Tumbili Cliff Lodge Limited – Offers breathtaking views atop a cliff overlooking the lake9
Budget-Friendly Options
Guesthouses & Bed-and-Breakfasts– Marigat town or nearby villages/compilerinas like Kampi ya Samaki.
Tented Camps & Camping Sites– If you like to spend time outdoors rather than in luxury facilities.
Second, these are places where such activities as birdwatching or fishing trips on a lake or simply relaxing in beautiful scenery are offered.
Lake Baringo Investment Opportunities
There are some lucrative opportunities for those wanting to invest in tourism in and around Lake Baringo. The popularity and Geopark status of the region also contributes to its development.
Developing Tourism Infrastructure
Hoteliers & Lodges Construction– Investors are incentivized to build hotels and lodges to accommodate the growing tourist numbers.
This will also involve building accommodations on islands across the lake, allowing visitors to experience something new.
Geosites development– their enormous potential includes camping sites and sites, tourism, and other infrastructure.
Conference Tourism– Lake Baringo has the potential to cater for conference tourism events, given its picturesque views and serene environment.
Conclusion
If you wish to get involved with long–term investments in real estate near these natural wonders, then Chepchieng & Company advocates can advise foreign clients’ requests on succession planning.
Contact a lawyer in Kenya who is involved in investment law, such as Chepchieng and Company advocates, to guarantee that your investment is safe and follows all legal procedures.
