Lake Bogoria National Reserve: A Spectacle of Flamingos and Geothermal Wonders
Lake Bogoria National Reserve, often referred to as “The healing place,” is a stunning saline lake nestled within the mountainous terrain of northern Kenya. This reserve, covering 107km2, is a treasure trove of geothermal activity, breathtaking scenery, and an abundance of wildlife. Let’s delve into the wonders and attractions of Lake Bogoria:
Key Features:
- Flamingo Haven:
- Home to one of the largest populations of lesser flamingoes globally.
- Deep saline and alkaline composition of the lake promotes the growth of blue-green algae, a primary food source for flamingoes.
- Raptors like tawny eagles are attracted to the area, preying on the flamingoes.
- Geothermal Activity:
- Geothermically active on the western shore, featuring over 200 steaming volcanic springs.
- 10 geysers can be spotted in various locations around the lake, with plumes rising up to 5m (16ft) high.
- A total of 18 geysers, making it the spot with the most geysers in Africa.
- Scenic Beauty:
- Breathtaking scenery along the lake at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment.
- Loburu Hot Springs as an interesting landmark showcasing tectonic activity.
- Dramatic landscapes observed from viewpoints along the road.
Weather & Climate:
- Consistently warm temperatures due to its equatorial location.
- Dry season (September to February) offers agreeable weather, but rain can occur suddenly.
- Wet season characterized by rainy afternoons.
Wildlife:
- Flora and Fauna:
- Home to greater kudu, though sightings are rare.
- Warthog, Kirk’s dik-dik, Grant’s gazelle, impala, and Burchell’s Zebra are occasionally seen.
- Vervet monkeys, olive baboons, leopards, spotted hyenas, and mongooses contribute to the reserve’s biodiversity.
- Birdlife:
- Over 350 bird species, with the main attraction being an estimated two million lesser flamingoes.
- Greater flamingos also frequent the lake.
- Grey crowned crane, common ostrich, black-headed herons, sacred ibis, and hadada are among the bird species present.
- Hot Springs and Geysers:
- Approximately 200 hot springs around the lake, with some large ones along the western shore.
- Water temperatures reach over 94 degrees, hot enough to boil an egg.
Swamps and Wetlands:
- Kesubo Swamp, located just outside the reserve, is a key ecosystem supporting birdlife.
- Loboi swamp serves as a water reservoir for various purposes.
- Numerous small marshes with high conservation value.
Things to Do and See:
- Flamingo Watching:
- Witness the mesmerizing sight of thousands or millions of glittering pink flamingoes.
- Best observed early or late in the day for stunning photos.
- Cycling and Walking:
- Take a bicycle safari to appreciate the diversity of land and wildlife.
- Explore the area on foot, visiting hot springs and experiencing the unique ecosystem.
- Boil an Egg on the Springs:
- Try cooking your own hard-boiled or soft-boiled egg in the hot springs, a fascinating experience.
- Kesubo Swamp:
- Explore the birdwatching opportunities in Kesubo Swamp, just north of Lake Bogoria.
- Visit Lake Baringo:
- Head north to Lake Baringo, a freshwater lake with diverse bird species, crocs, and hippos.
Best Time to Visit:
- Flamingos can be seen throughout the year.
- Best time is during the Dry season (September to February) to avoid overcast skies and rain interruptions.
How to Get There:
- Located 250km/155mi from Nairobi.
- 4WD is essential, and the southern entrance is 38km/23mi north of Lake Nakuru.
- Road access from Nakuru to the northern entrance is 150km/93mi.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, from the vibrant flamingo spectacle to the geothermal marvels, making it an ideal destination for those seeking unique and diverse experiences in Kenya.