Kenya · Rift Valley Lakes
Soysambu Conservancy & Lake Elementaita
Photo: Katie Hunt / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
- Properties
- 3
- Luxury
- 0
- Mid-range
- 3
Overview
Soysambu Conservancy and Lake Elementaita together form one of Kenya's most underappreciated and genuinely special safari destinations, a 48,000-acre private wilderness in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, tucked quietly between the more famous Lake Nakuru to the north and Lake Naivasha to the south.
Lake Elementaita is a shallow, alkaline soda lake of extraordinary natural significance, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, and a designated Important Bird Area. It is home to Kenya's only breeding colony of Great White Pelicans, one of the most spectacular bird colonies on the continent. Flamingos paint the lake shores pink depending on alkalinity levels. Over 450 bird species have been recorded in the area.
Soysambu Conservancy, the private ranching estate of the Delamere family, has been progressively rewilded to create a functioning wildlife corridor between Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha. The conservancy is home to one of Kenya's most significant free-roaming populations of Rothschild's giraffe, one of the world's most endangered giraffe subspecies. Buffalo, zebra, eland, impala, jackal, hyena, and numerous raptors complete the wildlife picture.
Unlike the heavily visited parks of the Rift Valley, Soysambu offers night game drives and walking safaris that bring visitors into intimate contact with the landscape. The volcanic topography, including the dramatic Sleeping Warrior crater, adds a geological dimension unique among Kenyan safari destinations.
When to go
Dry SeasonsJan to Feb, Jun to Oct
Green SeasonMar to May, Nov
- This month
- Year-Round
- Soysambu's resident wildlife and permanent lake make it rewarding throughout the year. The conservancy is never crowded.
- Dry Seasons
- Best game viewing and birding. Flamingo and pelican numbers on the lake can be exceptional. Clear skies and cooler temperatures.
- Green Season
- Lush, dramatically beautiful landscapes. Exceptional birding including migrants. Walking safaris particularly scenic.
- Tip
- Combine with Lake Nakuru (25km north) and Lake Naivasha (50km south) for a compelling Rift Valley Lakes circuit. Ideal as a 1–2 night addition to a Nakuru or Naivasha itinerary.
Park fees
| Area | Non-resident | EA citizen | EA resident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soysambu Conservancy, Adult | USD 35–50 / day | KES 1,000–1,500 | KES 1,500 |
| Lake Elementaita KWS Sanctuary | USD 50 / day | KES 500 | KES 675 |
Soysambu Conservancy is privately managed by the Delamere family estate, fees often INCLUDED in lodge rates. Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary is KWS-managed (eCitizen, cashless). In practice, lodge guests pay once and access both areas. Always confirm current fee structure with the property.
Park fees are not included in accommodation rates and are added at quotation stage. Effective October 2025, reverified annually.
Soysambu Conservancy & Lake Elementaita in pictures
Where you'll stay
Mid-range · 3
- Photos to come
Lake Elementaita Serena Camp
A beautifully positioned Serena property on the ancient lakeshore, 24 tents in an acacia grove between volcanic hills and the shimmering waters of Lake Elementaita with direct views of Kenya's only Great White Pelican breeding colony. The camp's position within Soysambu gives guests private access to the conservancy's Rothschild giraffe, zebra, and buffalo while the lake provides extraordinary birding. Known for the quality of its bush dining, breakfast by the flamingo-lined shore and barbecue dinner under the Rift Valley stars.
Full boardLuxury Tented Camp
Mid-range - Photos to come
Pelican Lodge
Named for the pelican colony that defines the lake's ecological character, a straightforward midrange lodge on the Elementaita lakeshore with good access to the conservancy and lake activities. Known for value and directness: no frills, but an honest and well-located base for experiencing the Rift Valley's bird-rich landscapes. The Great White Pelican nesting colony visible from the grounds is a wildlife spectacle that most travellers on the Kenya circuit never encounter.
Full boardLodge
Mid-range - Photos to come
Sentrim Elementaita
Part of the Sentrim Hotels group and delivering the brand's consistent standard, 38 comfortable rooms in a well-maintained lakeshore property. A reliable midrange choice for travellers who value cleanliness, consistency, and easy access to the lake without complexity. The Sentrim group's operational efficiency ensures a functional, professional experience for groups and independent travellers alike.
Full boardLodge
Mid-range
Show all 3 mid-range staysShow fewer
- Photos to come
Sentrim Elementaita
Part of the Sentrim Hotels group and delivering the brand's consistent standard, 38 comfortable rooms in a well-maintained lakeshore property. A reliable midrange choice for travellers who value cleanliness, consistency, and easy access to the lake without complexity. The Sentrim group's operational efficiency ensures a functional, professional experience for groups and independent travellers alike.
Full boardLodge
Mid-range
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Frequently asked questions
Anything not answered here, a consultant answers directly. More planning questions are on the FAQ page.
Best game viewing and birding. Flamingo and pelican numbers on the lake can be exceptional. Clear skies and cooler temperatures.
Soysambu Conservancy is privately managed by the Delamere family estate, fees often INCLUDED in lodge rates. Lake Elementaita Wildlife Sanctuary is KWS-managed (eCitizen, cashless). In practice, lodge guests pay once and access both areas. Always confirm current fee structure with the property.
Soysambu Conservancy and Lake Elementaita together form one of Kenya's most underappreciated and genuinely special safari destinations, a 48,000-acre private wilderness in the heart of the Great Rift Valley, tucked quietly between the more famous Lake Nakuru to the north and Lake Naivasha to the south.