Lake Naivasha, Kenya – History, Amazing Facts and Things to Do
Located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake that is renowned for its beauty and its abundance of wildlife. The lake is the highest lake in the Rift Valley, sitting at an elevation of 1,884 metres (6,181 feet). The lake is fed by the Malewa River and it's also the main source of the River Ewaso Ng'iro North, which flows to the Lorian Swamp.
The lake is a popular tourist destination and is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 species of birds. The lake is also known for its stunning sunsets and its remarkable views of Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano.
History
The lake is believed to have been formed around 3 million years ago. It is thought to have been formed by the movement of tectonic plates, which created the Great Rift Valley. The lake was first documented by the explorer John Walter Gregory in 1892, who described it as a “beautiful lake, about 8 miles in circumference, with a number of small islands in it”.
During the colonial period, the lake was used as a source of fish for the settlers. In the 1950s, the lake was declared a National Reserve, and in the 1960s, the lake became a popular tourist destination.
Amazing Facts
One of the most amazing facts about Lake Naivasha is that it is home to one of the largest concentrations of hippos in the world. There are estimated to be over 2,000 hippos in the lake, making it one of the most important hippo habitats in Africa.
The lake is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including over 400 species of birds, including the great white pelican, and over 50 species of fish.
The lake is also home to an abundance of plant life, including papyrus, waterlilies, and acacia trees.
Things to Do at Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is a popular tourist destination, and there are a variety of activities to enjoy in the area.
One of the most popular activities is a boat tour of the lake, which will allow you to get up close and personal with the hippos and other wildlife. You can also take a guided nature walk around the lake, or take a guided bird-watching tour.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous activity, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the lake, or go for a game drive in the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or go for a picnic on one of the many islands in the lake.
No matter what you decide to do, Lake Naivasha is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.