Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation by the Lake

  Lake Elementaita is a relatively small, shallow lake, covering around 20 square kilometers, and it is surrounded by rolling hills, making the landscape here simply breathtaking. The lake’s tranquil waters are often calm, reflecting the surrounding mountains and open skies, which gives it a serene, almost magical quality.

  The area is also rich in wildlife and birdlife, and it’s a great spot for nature lovers and photographers. The savannah and grasslands around the lake provide a habitat for a variety of animals, including zebras, gazelles, and sometimes warthogs. The birdlife is especially abundant, and the lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

  Afternoon:

  • Arrival and Check-In (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM):
    • Arrive at Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge. The drive from Nairobi to the lodge is about 2-2.5 hours, offering beautiful views of the Great Rift Valley. Check-in at the lodge, and take a moment to enjoy the serene lake views from the comfort of the lodge's facilities.
  • Welcome Drink and Orientation (2:00 PM – 2:30 PM):
    • Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink at the lodge’s lounge, where the staff will give you a brief orientation of the facilities and activities available for your stay.

  Late Afternoon:

  • Explore the Lodge Grounds and Lake Shore (2:30 PM – 4:00 PM):
    • Take a leisurely walk around the lodge's expansive grounds, which provide an excellent vantage point to enjoy the views of Lake Elementaita and the surrounding landscapes. You can stroll along the lakeshore and take in the natural beauty, keeping an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and possibly zebras or gazelles.
  • Optional Activity – Visit Soda Springs (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM):
    • If you're interested in exploring the area further, take a short trip to Soda Springs, located near the lake. These natural hot springs are an interesting geological feature and offer a unique experience for visitors to learn about the mineral-rich waters and see how they attract wildlife.

  Evening:

  • Relax at the Lodge (5:00 PM – 6:30 PM):

    • After your exploration, return to the lodge to unwind. Relax by the poolside or enjoy a cocktail at the bar while watching the sunset over the lake. The tranquil atmosphere makes it easy to simply relax and soak in the beauty around you.

  • Dinner at the Lodge (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM):

    • Enjoy a delicious half-board dinner at the lodge’s restaurant. The meal will feature a mix of local and international cuisine, with the opportunity to taste fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you dine, accompanied by the sounds of nature in the background.

  Night:

  • Stargazing (Optional) (8:30 PM – 9:30 PM):
    • After dinner, if you're a stargazing enthusiast, head out into the open for a quiet stargazing experience. The clear skies of the Great Rift Valley are perfect for spotting constellations, and the peaceful surroundings add to the charm.

• Day 2: Morning Activity and Departure

  Morning:

  • Early Morning Birdwatching (Optional) (6:30 AM – 7:30 AM):
    • For early risers, Lake Elementaita offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. You can take a guided walk along the lake to spot flamingos, pelicans, herons, and various other bird species that frequent the area, especially in the early morning hours when the birds are most active.
  • Breakfast at the Lodge (7:30 AM – 8:30 AM):
    • Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge’s restaurant with panoramic views of the lake. The breakfast spread typically includes fresh fruits, pastries, cereals, hot dishes like eggs and sausages, and freshly brewed coffee or tea.

  Late Morning:

  • Optional Activity – Game Drive in Soysambu Conservancy (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM):

    • For an exciting wildlife experience, take an optional game drive to the nearby Soysambu Conservancy (which is part of the broader Lake Elementaita ecosystem). The conservancy is home to a variety of animals such as giraffes, buffaloes, gazelles, and rare species like the bongo antelope and white rhinos. This guided drive is a great way to get a closer look at the region’s wildlife.

    • Alternatively, you could enjoy a nature walk within the conservancy or lodge grounds, depending on your preference.

  Late Morning to Early Afternoon:

  • Final Relaxation and Checkout (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM):

    • Return to the lodge for some final relaxation before checkout. You can take a dip in the pool, read a book by the lakeside, or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere one last time.

  • Check-Out (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM):

    • Check out of Jacaranda Lake Elementaita Lodge after a rejuvenating stay. Before departing, take a few final moments to admire the stunning views of the lake, and don’t forget to capture a few photos of this beautiful destination.

  Optional Afternoon Activity (if you have more time before departure):

  • Visit Lake Nakuru National Park (Optional – 1.5 hours drive):
    • If you’re not in a hurry to leave and want to explore more, you could take a short drive to Lake Nakuru National Park (about 1.5 hours from the lodge). Famous for its large populations of flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife, it’s a great way to extend your nature experience before heading home.