Located in Kenya’s Rift Valley, Lake Bogoria is a prime birding destination famous for its geysers and hot springs. It hosts exceptionally high numbers of Lesser Flamingos, which thrive on the lake’s abundant Spirulina algae and utilize freshwater discharges.
Recognized for its “outstanding natural beauty,” Lake Bogoria is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with Lakes Nakuru and Elementeita.
The lake is scientifically important due to its unusual range of microbes and microorganisms that produce enzymes used in antibiotics and environmentally friendly cleaning products. Furthermore, Lake Bogoria holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Endorois people, who have been its custodians for centuries.
The lake is part of the Great Rift Valley flyway, a crucial route for migratory birds, and the region’s major lakes collectively host over 70% of the country’s waterbird population. Waterbirds account for about 17% of all recorded species in Kenya.
Lake Bogoria National Reserve as a birdwatching destination has more than 350 birds recorded, the main attraction in Lake Bogoria being the large flocks of the Lesser Flamingos that frequent the lake to feed on the blue-green algae. Lake Bogoria is an excellent birdwatching destination at any time of the year, but the best time is from November to April. The lake also has other interesting waterbirds such as Black-necked Grebe, Greater Flamingo, African Fish Eagle, several waders, Cape Teal, Black-winged Stilt, Lesser Flamingo, Greater Flamingo, Black-necked Grebe, Woodland Kingfisher, Little Stint, Beautiful Sunbird, Silverbird, African Fish Eagle, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Bearded Woodpecker, Grey-headed Bushshrike, African Hoopoe, Magpie Starling, Jackson’s Hornbill.
Ruma National Park is a hidden birding gem for nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a rich diversity of species and some of Kenya’s most picturesque scenery. This delightful birding hotspot boasts a sensational mix of habitats, making it one of the country’s finest birding destinations. It is the best place to spot the rare Montane Blue Swallow and the iconic Roan Antelope, alongside a wide variety of other species. Thanks to its mild climate and natural landscapes, birdwatching in Ruma is productive throughout the year. For an even more rewarding experience, a visit to Ruma can be seamlessly combined with nearby birding treasures such as Lake Victoria, Busia Grasslands, Mount Elgon, Kongelai Escarpment, and Kakamega Forest, forming part of Kenya’s western birding circuit.

