Travel Guide Baringo Lake

Unlike its neighbours Bogoria and Nakuru, the vast Lake Baringo (170 km2) is a freshwater lake, so you won't see huge colonies of flamingos. However, its fresh, fishy waters attract over 450 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. Herons, pelicans, cormorants, fish eagles, falcons, hornbills, crocodiles and hippopotamuses live along the banks covered with reeds and papyrus. Bogoria gives off an immense feeling of tranquility Several small islands in the centre of the lake can be visited by boat. Ol Kokwa Island (the most important) is a small wonder. This island is home to a profusion of birds and some antelopes, as well as hot springs and archaeological remains. A luxurious tented camp has been set up in this idyllic setting where several dozen Njemps live with their cattle. The Njemps are one of only three ethnic groups - along with the Samburu and Maasai - to speak the Maa language. This people of pastoralists has kept its traditional activities (goat breeding), but also practices fishing on board small dugouts made of branches of ambach (a light wood comparable to balsa) linked together.Lake Baringo is also known for its honey, sold along the road in plastic bottles... plastic bottles.