Tourist attractions sites in Laikipia County

Laikipia

Laikipia County is a beautiful and diverse region in Kenya with a wide range of attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Laikipia

Ol Pejeta Conservancy Laikipia

Ol Pejeta is a large wildlife conservancy that is home to the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos) and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and even visit the last two surviving Northern White Rhinos.

Mount Kenya

Mount Kenya is the highest mountain in Kenya and the second-highest in Africa after Kilimanjaro. It offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Lewa is a private wildlife conservancy that offers a unique safari experience with breathtaking views of Mount Kenya. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and even horseback safaris.

Lake Bogoria

Lake Bogoria is a saline lake located in the Great Rift Valley. It is known for its hot springs, geysers, and flocks of flamingos that visit the lake.

Laikipia Plateau

The Laikipia Plateau is a vast area of wilderness that is home to several wildlife conservancies and community-run wildlife sanctuaries. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences with the local communities.

Samburu National Reserve

Samburu National Reserve is a wildlife reserve located in Samburu County, but easily accessible from Laikipia County. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Samburu special five – reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, and gerenuk.

Ngare Ndare Forest Reserve Laikipia

Ngare Ndare is a beautiful forest reserve located on the foothills of Mount Kenya. Visitors can enjoy a canopy walk, swimming in natural pools, and hiking trails.

Il Ngwesi Community Conservancy

Il Ngwesi is a community-run conservancy that offers a unique cultural experience with the Maasai community. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences such as traditional dances and storytelling.

Best Hotels in Malindi to Visit for Holiday

Malindi Hotels

There are many great hotels in Malindi. However, here are some highly-rated hotels that are popular with visitors

Hemingways Watamu

This is a luxury hotel located in Watamu, which is about a 20-minute drive from Malindi. It features a private beach, spa, pool, and restaurant.

Kilili Baharini Resort & Spa

This is a boutique hotel located on a private beach . It features a spa, pool, and restaurant, and is known for its peaceful atmosphere.

Diamonds Dream of Africa

This is a luxury hotel located on the Beach. It features a spa, outdoor pool, and a restaurant, and is known for its attentive staff and beautiful surroundings.

Scorpio Villas Malindi

This is a boutique hotel located near the Beach. It features a pool, a garden, and a restaurant, and is known for its comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

Malindi Hotels Ocean Beach Resort & Spa

This is a beachfront hotel located on the Beach. It features a spa, a pool, and a restaurant, and is known for its excellent service and beautiful location.

There is a variety of Malindi hotels depending on the preferences

How to get to Malindi

By Air: There is an airport called Malindi Airport, which is served by several domestic airlines. You can fly directly to Malindi from Nairobi, Mombasa, and other cities in Kenya.

By Road: If you are coming from Nairobi, you can drive to Malindi via Mombasa Road and the Mombasa-Malindi Highway. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, depending on the traffic and the condition of the roads. You can also take a bus from Nairobi which takes about 9-10 hours.

By Train: The new Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) operates a train service from Nairobi to Mombasa. Once you arrive at the Mombasa Terminus, you can take a matatu or taxi to Malindi, which is about 120 kilometers away.

By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Malindi and other major towns in Kenya, including Nairobi and Mombasa. The journey takes between 7 to 10 hours depending on the company, the route and the traffic.

Visiting Masinga Dam for Holiday

Masinga Dam is a large man-made reservoir located on the Tana River in central Kenya. It was constructed in the 1980s as part of the Seven Forks Hydroelectric Project, which aimed to harness the power of the Tana River to generate electricity for Kenya’s growing population.

Masinga Dam is the largest dam in the Seven Forks scheme and has a capacity of over 1.6 billion cubic meters of water. It is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) and is a major source of hydroelectric power in the country. The dam has a power generation capacity of 40 megawatts and helps to supply electricity to the national grid.

Role of Masinga Dam

In addition to its role in generating electricity, the Dam also plays an important role in;

  • Irrigation and water supply for the surrounding area.
  • Provides water for agriculture, livestock, and domestic use, benefiting many communities in the region.
  • Masinga Dam is also a popular destination for tourists, who come to enjoy its scenic beauty and the opportunities for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

The Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station

The Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station is a hydroelectric power plant. Located at the Masinga Dam on the Tana River in Kenya. The power station has a capacity of 40 megawatts (MW) and is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).

Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station
Masinga Hydroelectric Power Station

Power Point

The Masinga Dam is a hydroelectric power plant located in Kenya, East Africa. The power plant was built in the 1980s and has a capacity of 40 MW. It is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Kenya and is operated by the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen).

The power plant utilizes the flow of the Tana River, which is dammed at Masinga to create a reservoir. The water is then released from the reservoir and flows through turbines to generate electricity. The power plant is part of a larger hydroelectric system that includes several other dams and power plants downstream.

The Masinga Dam has played an important role in meeting Kenya’s energy needs, as hydroelectric power accounts for a significant portion of the country’s electricity supply

Overall, the Masinga Dam is an important source of renewable energy for Kenya and has helped to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation.

View Points

One of the best viewpoints for Masinga Dam is located on the Mwea-Embu road. About 10 kilometers from the town of Makutano. From this viewpoint, you can see the entire dam, as well as the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also several picnic areas and rest stops along the road where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery.

Another great viewpoint is located at the Kamburu Dam overlook, which is about 15 kilometers from the town of Mwea. This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the dam and the surrounding landscape, and is a popular spot for photographers.

There are also several hiking trails in the area that lead to other viewpoints and scenic spots, including the Kivani Hill viewpoint and the Kyamwilu Hill viewpoint. These trails vary in difficulty, so be sure to check with local guides or park officials before embarking on a hike.

Overall, Masinga Dam is a beautiful and unique destination that offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

How to get to Masinga Dam

If you are coming from Nairobi, you can take the Thika Highway and then turn onto the Garissa Road. Follow the Garissa Road for approximately 120 kilometers until you reach the town of Kibirichia. From there, follow the signs to Masinga Dam, which is about 30 kilometers away.

Alternatively, you can take a matatu (shared taxi) from Nairobi to Kibirichia. Then hire a local taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to take you to Masinga Dam.

Visiting Ngangao Forest for recreation

Ngangao Forest

Ngangao Forest

Ngangao Forest is a forest reserve located in the Taita Hills of Taita Taveta County in Kenya. It covers an area of approximately 6,000 hectares and is situated at an altitude of 1,800-2,200 meters above sea level. The forest is part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, a range of ancient mountains that stretches from Kenya to Tanzania.

Ngangao Forest
Ngangao Forest

Attractions

Bird watching

Ngangao Forest is home to over 200 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Some of the bird species found in the forest include the African green pigeon, Narina trogon, and the emerald cuckoo.

Hiking

There are several hiking trails in Ngangao Forest that offer visitors the chance to explore the forest’s diverse ecosystem. These trails are suitable for both experienced hikers and beginners.

Nature Walks

If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can take a nature walk through the forest and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Butterfly watching

The forest is also home to a variety of butterfly species, including the African giant swallowtail, the brown-veined white, and the African queen.

Picnicking

There are several picnic sites where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Camping

If you want to spend more time, you can camp at one of the designated camping sites. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in the forest and experience its beauty at night.

Wildlife viewing

Ngangao Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, bushbucks, and duikers. Visitors can spot these animals while on a hike or nature walk.

Photography

The Forest provides a beautiful backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The forest’s lush greenery and diverse wildlife make it a great location for nature photography.

 

Best Hotels to Visit in Taita Taveta County

best hotels in Taita Taveta county

Best hotels in Taita Taveta County

best hotels in Taita Taveta county
best hotels in Taita Taveta county

  1. Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge: Located in Taita Hills Wildlife Conservancy, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  2. Lion’s Bluff Lodge: Perched on the edge of a bluff overlooking the plains of Tsavo West National Park, this eco-friendly lodge offers breathtaking views and comfortable accommodations.
  3. Voi Wildlife Lodge: Located inside Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers an authentic African safari experience with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and game drives.
  4. Taita Hills Safari Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort offers stylish accommodations, a spa, swimming pool, and a variety of activities such as game drives and cultural tours.
  5. Ashnil Aruba Lodge: Located in Tsavo East National Park, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations and game drives to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.

Holiday at Lake Elementaita Lodge

Lake Elementaita Lodge

Lake Elementaita Lodge

Lake Elementaita Lodge is a luxurious resort located in the Rift Valley of Kenya, near Lake Elementaita. The lodge is set on a private wildlife sanctuary, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. The lodge is designed to offer a unique African experience with modern amenities and personalized services.

Lake Elementaita Lodge
Lake Elementaita Lodge

Accommodation

  1. Standard Rooms: These are the most basic rooms at the lodge, but they are still luxurious and comfortable. Each room has a private balcony with a view of the lake. A king-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and an en-suite bathroom.
  2. Deluxe Rooms: These rooms are more spacious than the standard rooms and come with a larger balcony with a view of the lake. They also have a king-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and an en-suite bathroom.
  3. Superior Rooms: These rooms are the most luxurious at the lodge and are perfect for those looking for extra comfort and luxury. They feature a separate living area, a larger balcony with a view of the lake, a king-sized bed, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and an en-suite bathroom.

Dining

The lodge has several dining options, including a main restaurant that serves a variety of local and international dishes. There is also a bar where guests can enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks.

Activities

The lodge offers a range of activities for guests, including game drives, bird watching, nature walks, horse riding, and cycling. The lodge has its own private airstrip, making it easily accessible by air.

Overall, Elementaita is a great destination for those looking for a luxurious and authentic African experience in a stunning natural setting.

Kengen Olkaria Geothermal Spa Naivasha

Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Olkaria Geothermal Spa is a natural hot spring located in the Hell’s Gate National Park in Kenya, Africa. The spa is part of the Olkaria Geothermal Power Station. Which is one of the largest geothermal power plants in the world.

Olkaria Geothermal Spa
Olkaria Geothermal Spa

Volcanic activity beneath the Earth’s surface heats the water in the spa, and the water contains various minerals that people believe have healing properties. The water temperature in the pool ranges from 36°C to 40°C (97°F to 104°F). Making it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Apart from enjoying the hot springs. Visitors can also take part in other activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and wildlife watching in the park. The park is home to various animals such as baboons. Zebras, giraffes, and buffalos, among others.

Overall, Olkaria Geothermal Spa is a unique and fascinating attraction that combines geothermal energy, natural beauty, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for travelers to Kenya.

Attractions

Geothermal Hot Springs

The spa features a large pool filled with natural hot spring water, heated by geothermal energy from deep beneath the earth’s surface. The water is rich in minerals like sulfur, which is said to have healing properties.

Scenic Views

The spa is situated in a picturesque location surrounded by scenic views of the nearby mountains and Lake Naivasha. You can enjoy the views while soaking in the hot springs or while taking a stroll around the spa grounds.

Nature Walks and Hikes

The spa is located within Hell’s Gate National Park, which is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including baboons, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can take nature walks and hikes to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife.

Spa Treatments

Olkaria Geothermal Spa offers a range of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs, to help visitors relax and rejuvenate.

Cultural Experience

Visitors to the Spa can also enjoy cultural experiences, such as learning about the Maasai people and their traditional way of life, or participating in a traditional dance or song performance.

Rates

The entrance fee to Olkaria Geothermal Spa varies depending on your nationality, with the rates being higher for non-residents compared to residents.

  • Citizens/Residents: KES 600 per adult, KES 350 per child (3-18 years)
  • East African Residents: KES 1,200 per adult, KES 600 per child (3-18 years)
  • Non-Residents: USD 30 per adult, USD 20 per child (3-18 years)

Contacts

Address:    785, Naivasha, Kenya
Tel:            0711 036040
Email:       geothermalspa@kengen.co.ke
Website:   kengen.co.ke

 

Visiting Lake Naivasha Fresh Water Lake

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. It is a popular tourist destination in Kenya, known for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and abundant birdlife.

Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha

One of the main attractions of Lake Naivasha is the opportunity to take a boat ride on the lake. During the boat ride. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. As well as spot hippos and various species of birds.

The lake is also home to several wildlife conservancies and game reserves, such as the Hell’s Gate National Park and the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary. These areas offer visitors the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and various species of antelope.

How to get there

  1. By Road: You can reach Lake Naivasha by road from Nairobi. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, depending on traffic. There are public buses and matatus (shared taxis) that operate between Nairobi and Naivasha.
  2. By Private Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi from Nairobi to Naivasha. This is a more convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with a group or carrying luggage.
  3. By Air: If you’re short on time or prefer to avoid the road trip, you can take a domestic flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Naivasha’s airstrip. The flight takes about 30 minutes.
  4. By Tour Operator: Many tour operators in Nairobi offer day trips and overnight stays in Naivasha. This is a convenient option, especially if you’re new to the area and would like a guide.
  5. Boat Safaris – Take a boat safari on the lake and spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species, such as pelicans, kingfishers, and cormorants.

Attractions

  1. Boat Safaris – Take a boat safari on the lake and spot a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species, such as pelicans, kingfishers, and cormorants.
  2. Crescent Island Game Sanctuary – Take a walk or bike ride around the island and see wildlife up close, such as giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
  3. Hell’s Gate National Park – Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and cycling in the scenic park, which is also home to wildlife, including baboons and hyenas.
  4. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary – Visit this beautiful park and enjoy walking around the crater, where you can spot wildlife like zebras, gazelles, and giraffes.
  5. Bird Watching – Lake Naivasha is home to over 400 species of birds, including African fish eagles, herons, and the endangered great crested grebe.
  6. Fishing – Fishing for tilapia and other fish is a popular activity on the lake.
  7. Lake Oloiden – Visit the nearby lake, which is known for its pink flamingos and stunning scenery.
  8. Mount Longonot – Climb the dormant volcano and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
  9. Elsamere Conservation Centre – Learn about wildlife conservation efforts and the history of the area at this conservation center.
  10. Geothermal Spa – Relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs located near Lake Naivasha.

 

Holidays Resorts near Masinga Dam

Resorts near Masinga Dam more

Review

Masinga Dam is located in Kenya, and there are several resorts in the area that offer accommodation and activities for visitors. Some of the resorts around Masinga Dam include:

Resorts near Masinga Dam more
Resorts near Masinga Dam more

 

Masinga Resort

This resort is located on the shores of the dam and offers cottages, camping sites, a swimming pool, and water sports such as fishing and boating.

Lakefront Resort Masinga

This resort offers cottages with views of the dam, a restaurant, and water sports activities.

Sunbird Lodge

This lodge is situated on the shores of Lake Elementaita, which is a short distance from Masinga Dam. It offers accommodation in cottages and tents, a swimming pool, and activities such as bird watching and nature walks.

Campi ya Kanzi

This eco-lodge is located on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, a few hours’ drive from Masinga Dam. It offers luxury accommodation in tented cottages, guided wildlife safaris, and cultural visits to the local Maasai community.

Oloiden Camp

This camp is located on the shores of Lake Oloiden, which is also close to Masinga Dam. It offers accommodation in tented camps, a restaurant, and activities such as bird watching and nature walks.

Lake Breeze Resort

This resort is located on the southern shores of Masinga Dam, and offers a range of accommodations including cottages and tents. They have a restaurant and bar, and activities available include fishing, bird watching, and boat rides.

These are just a few of the resorts in the area around Masinga Dam, and there are many more to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.

Cheapest Budget homestay for holidays

Budget home stay for travelers

Reviews

If you are looking for budget home stay for travelers, there are several options you can consider:

Budget home stay for travelers
Budget home stay for travelers

Airbnb

Airbnb offers a range of budget-friendly home stay options in various locations around the world. You can choose from private rooms in someone’s home, entire apartments or houses, or even unique accommodation like treehouses or yurts.

Hotels

Hostels are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers. They offer dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms and common areas, which can be a great way to meet other travelers.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a community-based platform where travelers can stay with locals for free. This can be a great way to meet new people and get an authentic local experience.

Homestay.com

Homestay.com connects travelers with local hosts who can provide a room in their home, meals, and a cultural experience. Prices are generally more affordable than traditional hotels.

Workaway

Workaway is a platform that connects travelers with hosts who need help with tasks like gardening, housekeeping, or language teaching. In exchange for a few hours of work each day, travelers can receive free accommodation and meals.

These are just a few options for budget-friendly home stays for travelers. You can also look for local guesthouses or bed and breakfasts in the area you plan to visit.

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