Lake Baringo, with outlandish landscapes and prolific birdlife, is fascinating for geologists and nature lovers.

 

One of the only two freshwater lakes (the other is Lake Naivasha) has no visible outlet, with its waters seeping into lavas at its northern end, where a rocky shore contrasts with the alluvial flat on its southern border.

 

Many birds inhabit the lake, which is also home to hippopotamuses and crocodiles.

 

The Kamasya and Njamus (Njemps) peoples of the Baringo basin catch tilapia species (a perchlike fish) in the lake, herd cattle, and raise crops. Lake Baringo provides irrigation and drinking water and is also home to Nile crocodiles.

 

Many Kenyan Rift Valley lakes are known for their birdlife, particularly the concentrations of Flamingoes, but because of Baringo's freshwater properties, Flamingoes tend to stay away.

 

Nonetheless, the lake is home to more than 470 species of birds, many of which breed on and around the lake.

 

Many migratory birds - inter-African and global- consider the lake an essential stop due to the several fish species well-fished by people living in the habitat.

 

The area also has several species, such as Hippo, Crocodile, Zebra, Klipspringer, Grant's gazelle, Chandler's Mountain Reedbuck, and the rare Greater Kudu.

 

Lake Baringo has several islands, such as Ol Kokwe Island, which has hot springs and fumaroles, some of which have precipitated Sulphur deposits.

 

The area is also crucial for its archaeological and paleontological sites, where vital hominid fossil discoveries have been made.

 

The area is becoming more popular as a tourist destination despite floods and unrest in the central west parts of Kenya.

 

A range of accommodations is available in the region, and boat hire is easy.

 

Primary road access to Lake Baringo is directly from Nakuru by private transport.

 

The nearest town to the lake is Kampi ya Samaki.