Elementeita is derived from the Maasai word muteita, meaning “dust place”, a reference to the dryness and dustiness of the area, especially between January and March. The town of Gilgil is near the lake. In the south-to-north sequence of Rift Valley Lakes, Elementeita is between Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru. Along the nearby escarpment, the major Nairobi-Nakuru highway  gives motorists a spectacular vista of the lake. Today the lake is a protected area due to its bird life and has been named as a UNESCO heritage site together with Lake Nakuru and Lake Bogoria.

At the southern end of the lake are the “Kekopey” hot springs, in which an introduced fish, the Lake Magadi Tilapia, breed. The reed beds nearby are fishing grounds for night herons and pelicans.

It is a soda lake (high alkalinity, high biodiversity).

Over 400 bird species have been recorded in the Lake Nakuru/Lake Elmenteita basin. Elmenteita attracts visiting flamingoes, which feed on the lake’s crustacean and insect larvae and on its suspended blues-green algae, respectively. Lake Magadi tilapia  were introduced to the lake from Lake Magadi in 1962 and since that time the flamingo population has dwindled considerably. The tilapia attract many fish-eating birds that also feed upon the flamingo eggs and chicks.The lake’s shores are grazed by zebra, gazelle ,eland and families of warthog. The lake is normally very shallow (less than 1 m deep) and bordered by trona-encrusted mudflats during the dry seasons. During the late Pleistocene and early Holocene, Lake Elementeita was at times united with an expanded Lake Nakuru, forming a much larger dilute lake. Remnants of the former joined lake are preserved as sediments at various locations around the lake basins, including former shorelines.

Key Activities and Experiences

• Birdwatching

With its diverse bird population, Lake Elementaita is a must-visit for birdwatchers. Whether you’re spotting flamingos, pelicans, or other migratory species, the lake and its surrounding wetlands provide ample opportunities for birding.

• Game Drives

Visitors can enjoy game drives in the Soysambu Conservancy, where they may encounter wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species.

• Nature Walks and Hiking

The surrounding hills and escarpments offer scenic trails for nature walks and hikes, allowing visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty up close.

•  Photography

The lake’s stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and abundant wildlife make it a fantastic destination for photographers. Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful times to capture the landscape.

• Relaxing by the Lake

The lake is perfect for those looking to relax, whether it’s having a picnic by the shore, reading a book with the sound of water in the background, or simply soaking in the beautiful views.

Lake Elementaita offers a unique and peaceful experience in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. Its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich birdlife make it an ideal destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those looking for a quiet retreat away from the crowds. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore the surroundings, or immerse yourself in wildlife and nature, Lake Elementaita promises a memorable experience.