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This map of Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes shows the chain of soda and freshwater lakes northwest of Nairobi: flamingos and rhino at Nakuru, hippos at Naivasha, geothermal cliffs at Hell’s Gate. Trunktrails Safaris runs tours and safaris across the whole chain.
Map of the Rift Valley lakes
Lake Nakuru and Hell’s Gate are national parks (shaded); Naivasha and Bogoria are shown as pins. The brown line is the A104 Nairobi-Nakuru highway that links them.
Boundaries from OpenStreetMap contributors and WDPA, simplified for display; roads and airstrips from OpenStreetMap; basemap © CARTO. Drive times are typical and vary with conditions.
The Rift Valley lakes at a glance
| Lake | Type | From Nairobi | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naivasha | Freshwater | 90 km / 1.5-2 hr | Hippos, boat rides, Crescent Island |
| Elementaita | Soda | 120 km / 2 hr | Flamingos, pelicans |
| Nakuru | Soda (park) | 163 km / 2.5 hr | Rhino, flamingos, lion |
| Bogoria | Soda | 250 km / 5 hr | Flamingos, hot springs |
| Hell’s Gate | Park, not a lake | 100 km / 2 hr | Walking, cycling, gorge |
Rift Valley lakes: frequently asked questions
Which Rift Valley lake has the flamingos?
Historically Lake Nakuru, though the big flamingo flocks now move between Nakuru, Bogoria and Elementaita depending on water and algae conditions. Bogoria is the most reliable today.
How far is Lake Nakuru from Nairobi?
About 163 km, a two-and-a-half hour drive on the A104 highway.
Can you walk in Hell’s Gate?
Yes. Hell’s Gate is one of the few Kenyan parks where you can walk and cycle among the wildlife, through the gorge and beneath the cliffs.
Plan a Rift Valley safari
Trunktrails Safaris runs tours and safaris across the Rift Valley lakes, often paired with the Maasai Mara. Tell us your dates and we will link them up.
WhatsApp +254 113 208888 | info@trunktrailssafaris.com
See Rift Valley safaris
