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We spent mid-day today in an 8-person boat checking out the wildlife around Lake Naivasha. The variety of birds was spectacular... 3 types of kingfishers... Cormorants... Egrets... Herron... even some fresh water eagles who put on a display for us. Our guide saw a few Eagles resting in a tall acacia tree... gave them a whistle... waved his arms about... and then threw a fish high into the air that splashed into the lake near our boat. One of the female Eagles headed straight towards the bait fish... made a dramatic swoop across the water and clawed the fish with impressive precision... and took the catch back to her nest of chicks. Our group members were all impressed.
Our guide kept directing our attention towards the smaller birds around the shoreline... but changed the topic by asking, "Can anyone see the hippos?" We looked far afield hoping to be the first to make the sighting. Then someone noticed the pod of some 10 hippos quite close to us. Too close for my liking. (A group of hippos is often referred to as a crash, bloat, herd, pod or dale.)
We knew that hippos are the animals that kill the most humans... that makes them sound very dangerous. However our guide gave some further clues regarding their capabilities. Apparently, hippos are not good swimmers... they stay in shallower water... and keep jumping off the bottom to get their nose above the waterline to take their next breath. If our canoe stayed in deeper water, we were relatively safe. He also explained the decision-making that precedes a hippo attack. There is only one mature male in each pod. (He kills any male baby that comes within his reach... a proportion of mothers take their male babies away from the pod until the youngster can take care of himself. This fellow lives a solitary life until he reached full maturity... when he is ready to challenge the existing daddy for leadership of the pod.) The dominant male is afraid of the noise of the outboard motor on the boat... and takes a minute to work up the courage to attack. When the dominant male decides to attack the canoe, he gives a few grunts and shake his head about. One of the senior female hippos plays the role of ambusher... goes underwater and attempts to go around the far side of the boat. If the water is too deep, that attack will fail.
The typical victims of the hippo are the local fishermen. Their technique for fishing is to work in a team of 5. Four of them walk a fishing net into the lake... into a circle... make lots of splashing noise to frighten the fish into the centre of the netted area... tighten the area of the net... and make their catch. The 5th member of the fishing team has the job of standing guard... and watching out for any approaching hippo attack. As you can imagine, the job of hippo lookout is important... not given to any team member with limited concentration powers. The fishing activity by locals violates the rules of the national parks... so the hippos work as unpaid enforcers for the park rangers... although their harsh penalties are criticised.
Hippos have no natural predators... nearly all of them die of old age. Their ferocious teeth serve only to help sort out who should be the male leader of the pod... and to protect feeding territory. All the feeding is done at night on land. Hippos stay in the water during the day to protect their delicate skin from the...
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Lake Naivasha, nestled in the heart of Kenya's Rift Valley, is a true gem that showcases the abundant beauty of nature. This breathtaking lake offers a unique blend of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and luxurious accommodations, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility.
One of the highlights of Lake Naivasha is its thriving ecosystem. The lake is teeming with a rich variety of fish and is home to a large population of hippos, creating a truly mesmerizing sight. As you explore the lake by boat, you'll have the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, providing an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Lake Naivasha is also a haven for bird lovers. Its shores are frequented by an array of exotic bird species, including herons, pelicans, cormorants, and fish eagles. The sight of these vibrant and graceful birds soaring through the skies is a sight to behold, offering a unique and immersive birdwatching experience.
One of the most remarkable features of Lake Naivasha is its islands, with Crescent Island being a standout attraction. This private sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, antelopes, waterbucks, and many more. Taking a guided walking safari on Crescent Island allows you to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures, creating unforgettable memories and photo opportunities.
Beyond the wildlife encounters, Lake Naivasha offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Boat rides provide a peaceful and scenic experience, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the lake while enjoying the gentle breeze. Exploring the lake's various islands and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes is an absolute delight.
Lake Naivasha is also surrounded by a collection of exquisite 5-star hotels, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable stay. These accommodations offer world-class amenities, exceptional service, and stunning views of the lake. Whether you prefer a serene lakeside retreat or a luxurious resort-style experience, Lake Naivasha has the perfect accommodation to suit your preferences and needs.
The area surrounding Lake Naivasha is also known for its flower farms, adding to the natural beauty of the landscape. The sight of vast fields adorned with colorful blooms is truly mesmerizing, providing a picturesque backdrop for your exploration of the region.
In conclusion, Lake Naivasha is a natural paradise that offers an incredible blend of wildlife, tranquility, and luxury. From the abundance of fish and hippos in the lake to the exotic bird species and diverse animal life on Crescent Island, every moment spent here is filled with awe-inspiring encounters. The opportunity to ride boats, explore islands, and enjoy the comfort of 5-star hotels further enhances the overall experience. Lake Naivasha is truly a destination that captures the essence of Kenya's natural wonders and should be high on the list for anyone seeking an unforgettable and...
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Lake Naivasha is an absolute gem and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. My time there was nothing short of magical, and it’s an experience I’ll treasure forever.
The lake itself is stunning—its tranquil waters reflect the surrounding greenery, creating a picture-perfect landscape. Whether you’re gazing at the shimmering surface in the morning light or watching a fiery sunset paint the sky in the evening, the views are simply unforgettable. The air is fresh and crisp, and there’s an overwhelming sense of peace that makes you feel instantly connected to nature.
What truly sets Lake Naivasha apart is the incredible diversity of wildlife. During my visit, I was fortunate to see hippos lounging in the water, their eyes and ears peeking above the surface as they moved gracefully in their natural habitat. The birdlife was equally spectacular, with vibrant kingfishers, majestic fish eagles, and elegant herons gracing the shores and skies. For bird lovers, this lake is paradise!
The activities around the lake are equally wonderful. I enjoyed a serene boat ride that allowed me to experience the lake up close. Gliding across the water, surrounded by stunning views and accompanied by the sounds of nature, was truly special. The guides were incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the lake’s ecosystem and the wildlife we encountered.
The area around Lake Naivasha is also rich in attractions. Whether it’s exploring Crescent Island, taking nature walks, or visiting nearby conservancies, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of this region. Each activity feels unique, offering a fresh perspective on the lake and its surroundings.
Another highlight of my visit was the warm hospitality of the people. From the friendly locals to the attentive guides and staff, everyone I met was welcoming and genuinely passionate about sharing the magic of Lake Naivasha. Their pride in the lake and its natural wonders is evident, and it adds a personal touch to the experience that makes it even more memorable.
Lake Naivasha is more than just a beautiful destination—it’s a sanctuary of tranquility and a haven for wildlife. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, this is the place to be. I left with my heart full of gratitude and my camera full of incredible photos.
I can’t recommend Lake Naivasha enough. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave, and I’m already looking forward to...
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