Kenya: The Pink Lake

Encountering the Majesty of Pink Flamingos at Lake Elementaita.

Stepping into the serene wilderness of Soysambu Conservancy in Kenya was a journey filled with unexpected marvels. Just on my second day in this breathtaking country, I embarked on an unforgettable safari that would forever be etched in my memory.



A Rough Journey to Serenity

Leaving behind the bustling Rift Valley, our path to Lake Elementaita, where our lodge awaited, was not without its challenges. A rugged, unpaved road tested our patience with its deep potholes over a 7-kilometer stretch. Yet, as we ascended towards the lodge perched atop a mountain, the vista that greeted us was nothing short of spectacular. Before us lay Lake Elementaita, its shores seemingly adorned with a pink hue that beckoned us closer.

Later that day, our guide proposed a nature walk within Soysambu Conservancy. Boarding a safari jeep, we ventured through the conservancy's gates, treated to a mini game drive where impalas, buffalos and an array of birds painted the landscape. Drawing nearer to the lake, I found myself spellbound by what lay ahead.

The Pink Spectacle 

Approaching the edge of Lake Elementaita, disbelief mingled with awe as I gazed upon a sight that surpassed all expectations. Thousands upon thousands of pink flamingos adorned the lake's shoreline, a breathtaking spectacle that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a scene that evoked a sense of wonder and gratitude for being witness to nature's grandeur. 

Reflecting on my travels across the globe, I realized that nothing quite prepared me for the sheer beauty of this encounter. My astonishment must have been evident, for even one of my companions noted the childlike wonder etched across my face. It was a reminder that amidst our journeys, there are moments of profound beauty that leave an indelible mark on our souls.

A gazillion pictures (exaggeration) later, a naturalist met us and took us on a nature walk to give us facts about the flamingos, pelicans and other birds and animals found in the area. 

  • Lake Elementaita which is part of the Soysambu Conservancy is home to two species of flamingos: the greater flamingo, usually bigger and taller in size, and the lesser flamingo, usually smaller and pink color. 
  • Lake Elementaita hosts one of the highest concentrations of lesser flamingos in East Africa. 
  • The pink or lesser flamingos feed on the blue-algae found in the alkaline waters of the lake. Their diet is responsible for the pink coloration of their feathers due to the pigments in their food.
  • The flamingos at Lake Elementaita are known for their migrations, moving from different alkaline lakes in the Great Rift Valley of East Africa like Lake Nakuru depending on the water level and food availability. 
  • Conservation Status:  While the flamingo populations in Lake Elementaita are generally stable, they are susceptible to environmental changes including fluctuation in water level and human disturbances such as pollution.  

We hopped back on the jeep to continue our mini game-drive where we saw lots of impalas, monkeys and a hyena devouring a buffalo's head.  Our jeep stopped on its track to let a group of zebras cross the road. 

My safari at Soysambu Conservancy was more than just a wildlife expedition; it was a communion with nature's artistry. The pink flamingos of Lake Elementaita served as a testament to the splendor of Kenya's landscapes and the delicate balance of its ecosystems. It was a privilege to witness such magnificence, a reminder of why the call of the wild continues to resonate so deeply within us all.


PHOTO GALLERY

 
Greater Flamingos (White) & Lesser Flamingos (Pink)



Who's feeding on who?






NOTE:

All photos and videos by the author


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