The Greatest Lakes in Mount Kenya
Step into our virtual realm, a gateway to a narrative that unfolds amidst one of Africa’s most legendary peaks—Mount Kenya. Embedded in the heart of Kenya’s embrace, this regal mountain beckons with its lofty summits, emerald foliage, and untainted alpine lakes. Amidst the gallery of natural marvels that grace its slopes, the spotlight gleams on the four cardinal lakes of Mount Kenya, akin to glistening gemstones of unparalleled exquisiteness.
Embark with us on an expedition into the mesmerizing domain of Mount Kenya’s lakes—Lake Alice, Lake Ellis, Lake Michaelson, and Lake Rutundu. Each possessing a distinctive allure, these aquatic marvels grant us a peek into the kaleidoscope of landscapes and profuse biodiversity thriving within this extraordinary realm. As your guides through this odyssey, Ahambi Tours proudly presents “The Greatest Lakes in Mount Kenya,” an ode to the enigmatic water bodies that embellish this majestic terrain.
Lake Alice
Lake Alice is a beautiful alpine lake. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level.
Here’s some detailed information about Lake Alice.
Location: Lake Alice is situated on the slopes of Mount Kenya, within the Mount Kenya National Park. It is located in the northern part of the park, near the Teleki Valley and the Mackinder Valley. The lake is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including rocky cliffs, alpine meadows, and glaciers.
Size and Characteristics: Lake Alice is a relatively small lake with a surface area of about 2.5 hectares. It is a glacial lake formed by the melting ice and snow from the surrounding peaks of Mount Kenya. The lake’s water is typically crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains and vegetation.
Scenic Beauty: The lake is known for its picturesque beauty. It offers stunning views of the rugged mountain peaks, including the iconic peaks of Batian and Nelion, which are the highest points on Mount Kenya. The tranquil and serene ambiance of Lake Alice, combined with its scenic surroundings, makes it a popular spot for photography.
Hiking and Trekking: Lake Alice is often visited by hikers and trekkers as part of their journey to explore Mount Kenya. It is located along the popular Sirimon and Chogoria routes, which are used for climbing the mountain. Many climbers and hikers choose to camp near Lake Alice, taking advantage of its scenic location as a base camp.
Wildlife and Flora: The area around Lake Alice is known for its diverse flora and fauna. While exploring the lake and its surroundings, you may encounter various bird species, such as the alpine chat, sunbirds, and raptors. Mammals like rock hyraxes and duikers are also found in the region. The surrounding vegetation includes alpine plants, mosses, and lichens.
Accessibility: To reach Lake Alice, one usually needs to embark on a multi-day hike or trek, starting from either the Sirimon Gate or the Chogoria Gate of Mount Kenya National Park. These gates serve as entry points to the park and have established trails that lead to the lake.
Lake Ellis
Lake Ellis is a stunning alpine lake. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 meters (11,480 feet) above sea level.
Here’s some detailed information about Lake Ellis
Location: Lake Ellis is located on the slopes of Mount Kenya, within the Mount Kenya National Park. It is situated in the eastern part of the park, near the Mugi Hill area. The lake is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including montane forests, valleys, and rolling hills.
Size and Characteristics: Lake Ellis is a relatively small lake with a surface area of approximately 6 hectares. It is a glacial lake formed by the melting ice and snow from the surrounding peaks of Mount Kenya. The lake’s water is typically clear and cold, and it reflects the surrounding mountainous scenery.
Scenic Beauty: Lake Ellis offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Its tranquil ambiance and picturesque setting make it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. The calm waters of the lake, combined with the reflection of the nearby peaks, create a serene and beautiful atmosphere.
Wildlife and Flora: The area around Lake Ellis is known for its diverse flora and fauna. While exploring the lake and its surroundings, you may spot various bird species, such as the Malachite sunbird, mountain buzzard, and various species of alpine birds. Wildlife encounters may include sightings of rock hyraxes, duikers, and occasional larger mammals like elephants and buffaloes.
Accessibility: To reach Lake Ellis, one typically needs to embark on a multi-day hike or trek, starting from either the Sirimon Gate or the Burguret Gate of Mount Kenya National Park. These gates serve as entry points to the park and have established trails that lead to the lake.
Lake Michaelson,
Lake Michaelson also known as Lake Michelson, is located in the vicinity of Mount Kenya. It is situated on the northeastern slopes of the mountain, within the Mount Kenya National Park.
Here’s some detailed information about Lake Michaelson
Location: Lake Michaelson is located at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters (14,110 feet) above sea level. It lies in the Gorges Valley, which is a scenic and rugged area on the northeastern side of Mount Kenya.
Formation: Like many lakes in the region, Lake Michaelson is a glacial lake formed by the melting ice and snow from the surrounding peaks of Mount Kenya. It is believed to have been created during the retreat of glaciers in the area.
Size and Characteristics: Lake Michaelson is relatively small in size, with a surface area of around 0.4 hectares. It is known for its crystal-clear, icy blue waters, which reflect the surrounding mountain peaks and the sky. The lake is often frozen or partially covered with ice and snow, especially during colder months.
Scenic Beauty: The lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the unique rock formations in the Gorges Valley. The contrast between the blue waters of Lake Michaelson and the rocky landscape creates a stunning visual spectacle, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Hiking and Trekking: Lake Michaelson is always included as a highlight in hiking and trekking routes on Mount Kenya. It can be reached by following the popular Chogoria route, which is one of the main access routes to the mountain. Many hikers and trekkers camp near Lake Michaelson to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and serene atmosphere.
Wildlife and Flora: The area around Lake Michaelson is known for its unique flora and fauna. While exploring the lake and its surroundings, visitors may have the chance to spot various bird species, such as the alpine chat, sunbirds, and raptors. Mammals like rock hyraxes and occasional larger animals like elephants and buffaloes may also be encountered in the region.
Lake Rutundu
Lake Rutunda is a stunning alpine lake located on the western slopes of Mount Kenya.
Here’s some detailed information about Lake Rutundu.
Location: Lake Rutundu is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,400 meters (11,150 feet) above sea level. It is nestled in a scenic valley on the western side of Mount Kenya.
Size and Characteristics: Lake Rutundu is a relatively small lake with a surface area of about 6 hectares. It is a glacial lake formed by the melting ice and snow from the surrounding peaks of Mount Kenya. The lake is known for its calm and tranquil waters, often reflecting the nearby mountains and vegetation.
Scenic Beauty: The lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic peaks of Mount Kenya. The serene ambiance and picturesque setting make it a popular spot for photography, relaxation, and nature appreciation.
Wildlife and Flora: Lake Rutundu is surrounded by diverse flora and fauna. Visitors to the area may encounter various bird species, such as the African crowned eagle, Hartlaub’s turaco, and several species of sunbirds. Other wildlife species, including duikers and hyraxes, can also be found in the region.
Fishing: Lake Rutundu is known for its fishing opportunities. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and you can engage in fly fishing. Fishing permits are required.
In the realm of Ahambi Tours, an invitation lingers for you to lace up your boots, secure your camera, and partake in an extraordinary journey to the illustrious quartet of lakes adorning the expanse of Mount Kenya. As we bid adieu, remember the promise of being entranced by panoramic vistas, finding tranquility in the embrace of serene waters, and being instilled with awe by the ceaseless wonders of nature that await at each bend. This is but a prologue to the grand symphony of experiences we orchestrate. With Mount Kenya Tours, Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking, and Kenya Wildlife Safaris within your grasp, let this voyage commence – a chapter awaiting your imprint in the tapestry of adventure.