Attractions at Lake Bogoria National Reserve: Lake Bogoria National Reserve is located within the Great Rift Valley Kenya, covering Lake Bogoria and the land immediately surrounding the lake. It is administered by the Kenya Wildlife Service. Lake Bogoria is situated in a trough below the Ngendelel Escarpment, a sheer wall 600 meters high. The lake Bogoria National Reserve covers 32 square kilometers. The only major river feeding the lake is the Waseges River which rises on the northern slopes of the Aberdare Range.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve is surrounded by grasslands dotted with bushes, there is acacia-ficus woodland to the south, and the north merges into a papyrus swamp. The reserve was established in 1970. Surprisingly the national park has numerous attractions that one can be marvel with when in a safari in the national park and in this article, we’re discussing some of the major attractions found in Lake Bogoria National Reserve that can make your safari in the park unforgettable and memorable.
Flamingos
The highlight of the reserve is the stunning flamingos that come to the calm waters of the lake in search of food. The lake, with no outlet, has salty water that allows blue and green algae to thrive. This creates a beautiful mix of colors on the water’s surface, contrasting with the bright pink of the flamingos as they wade through. Home to greater kudu, though sightings are rare.
Wildlife
Lake Bogoria National Reserve is home to greater kudu, though sightings are rare. Other large mammals found in this remarkable reserve includes buffalo, zebra, baboon, warthog, caracal, impala, dik dik, Klipspringer, Patas, Vervet monkeys, Burchell’s Zebra are occasionally seen. Then cheetah, Leopard, Karakul cat, jackals, spotted hyenas, and mongoose are some of the predators in the park.
Birdlife of Lake Bogoria National Reserve
Lake Bogoria National Reserve is home to over 350 bird species, with the main attraction being an estimated two million lesser flamingos. The reserve is also home to over 50 migratory bird species. Some of other bird spotted here includes Abyssinian scimitar bill, African wattled lapwing , black-head lapwing , black-necked grebe, black-tailed godwit, cape teal, D’Arnaud’s barbet , Egyptian vulture, golden -backed weaver, greater painted-snipe, grosbreak canary, lesser honeyguide, narina trogon, rufus chatterer, rufous-crowded roller, sombre nightjar, southern pochard , steel-blue whydah, Temminck’s stint, Verreaux’s eagle, white-billed buffalo-weaver, pratincole, swift, little bee-eater, cape wigeon, yellow-billed stork, African spoonbill, augur buzzard, gabar goshawk, water dikkop, great tit, starling, hornbill, crombec and among others, common ostriches. This reserve is the birding destination in Kenya with the most colourful and attractive bird species to thrill while on Kenya safaris.
Hot springs and Geysers
Visiting hot springs is a unique way to connect with nature, showcasing the intense heat beneath the Earth’s surface. Lake Bogoria is home to about 200 hot springs, with a concentration of these on one side of the lake. The water that bubbles up from deep within the ground can reach astonishing temperatures, sometimes exceeding 94 degrees Celsius. In fact, it’s so hot that you could even use it to boil an egg!
Cultural heritages.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve is not only known for its stunning natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. Within this reserve, you can explore two distinct cultural centers that highlight the traditions of the Tugen and Endorois communities.
The Tugen Cultural Center offers a glimpse into the way of life of the Tugen people. Here, you can see traditional homesteads constructed in the unique Tugen architectural style. Visitors have the chance to experience the culture firsthand, as old stools used by the elders are on display. If you’re lucky, you might also get to watch traditional dances and taste some authentic Tugen dishes, available upon request.
Just a short distance from the reserve’s head office, you’ll find the Endorois community’s cultural site. This center showcases various traditional artifacts that tell the story of the Endorois people. You can also enjoy performances from local traditional dance troupes, who bring the community’s rich traditions to life. Together, these cultural heritages provide a fascinating insight into the lives and customs of the Tugen and Endorois communities that call Lake Bogoria home.
Wetlands and swamps
Lake Bogoria National Reserve is home to some incredible wetland areas that play vital roles in the ecosystem. Just beyond the reserve lies Kesubo Swamp, a rich habitat for numerous bird species. It’s a crucial spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike, as the diverse birdlife thrives in this environment. Another important area is Loboi Swamp, which not only supports wildlife but also provides essential water resources for different uses. Additionally, there are several smaller marshes scattered throughout the region that hold significant conservation value, making them important for both the local flora and fauna. Together, these wetlands contribute to the overall health and diversity of the area, offering picturesque landscapes and unique opportunities for exploration.
