About the Rift Valley

Journey through Valleys and Lakes. The Great Rift Valley is one of the natural wonders of the world. Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is part of a continental fault system that runs over 3,500 miles across the Middle East and Africa, creating a literal rift across Kenya in its wake. The fresh water and soda lakes that line the floor of the valley each offer fantastic scenery and birdlife, including the world’s largest flamingo population.

Where is the Rift Valley?

The Great Rift Valley is part of an intra-continental ridge system that runs through Kenya from north to south.

Rift Valley Highlights

Kenya's Lake Systems of Lake Bogoria, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Elementaita are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Highlights of the Great Rift Valley include the scenic freshwater Lake Naivasha, the dramatic cliffs of Hell's Gate, a string of towns along the Mau escarpment, and Lake Nakuru National Park with its fever-tree-lined shores.

The valley’s shape also means it forms a natural migration corridor for birdlife, and huge flocks of flamingos by the thousands are not uncommon, particularly near Lake Bogoria. Active travelers can explore the dormant volcanoes of Longonot, Suswa, and Menengai or even ride mountain bikes through herds of zebra beneath the cliffs of Hell’s Gate.

Shores along Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha provide ideal spots for those who want to relax and enjoy idyllic weekends.