Tourism-wise, it is usually outperformed by its “bigger brothers,” Naivasha and Nakuru. On the other hand, Lake Elmenteita holidays can offer you a retreat from the myriad of people flocking to visit the other two lakes instead. With its luxurious lodgings, quiet location, and rich wildlife, the experience makes it worth the trip.
Getting There
Getting to Lake Elmenteita is as simple as hiring a matatu (minibus) from Nairobi and taking the Nairobi-Nakuru highway to your destination. You can also hire private transport to take you there. Our safari minivans and safari Land Cruisers provide safe and timely road transfers to all weary travelers.
Since the distance is about 130 km (about 80 mi), your scenic ride should take about 2h30m. That depends on road conditions as well, though we have had no complaints thus far.
The area is also reachable by taking a flight from Nairobi to Naivasha airstrip. Of course, the last stretch of the road would be covered by private transportation. Our tour provider can organize a transfer between the two lakes, though the various Kenyan lodgings could also make such arrangements.
Accommodation
If you’re looking for Lake Elmenteita accommodation, there are quite a few fancy options available. The Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp, for example, offers stylish tents fit with their own verandas. Don’t want to miss out on the news or want to call back home? WiFi and telephones are at your disposal. The Pelican Lodge provides those services as well.
In any case, you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the in-house mini-bars, a dip in the swimming pool, or even shop at the well-stocked boutiques and gift shops. The Lake Elmenteita Lodge provides conference rooms for busy travelers, who can then delight in traditional Kenyan and international cuisine after a hard day’s work.
All lodgings provide baths and showers, as well as multiple activities to keep you entertained on your relaxing get-away.
Lake Elmenteita Safari and Activities
When you’re not golfing, horse riding or enjoying quad-bike rides offered by local lodgings, Lake Elmenteita safaris are an excellent way of exploring this remote Kenyan paradise. Resident wildlife includes the buffalo, antelope, waterbuck and hippos which venture out at night. Predators such as the leopard, lion, bat-eared fox, and hyenas roam the lands in search of their next meal.
Otherwise, the lake is a paradise for bird-watchers. Massive flocks of flamingos travel between Naivasha, Nakuru, and Elmenteita, feeding on algae. The African Spoonbill, Black-Necked Grebe, and Marabou Storks also seek shelter in the area. These are just some highlights – there are over 450 bird species going to-and-fro and waiting for busy travelers to capture splendid shots of them on camera!