Major Attractions

Lying in one of the driest and hottest regions of Kneya, Magadi is known for its stunning landscapes, for the wonderful colors of its soda water, and pink flocks of flamingoes. The lake changes its color from brilliant white to cerise pink, cobalt, indigo, deep scarlet and soft pastels, according to changes in the light.

Getting There

Main road access to Magadi is directly from Nairobi by bus, matatu or private transport, via Kiserian. Many trekkers hike to Magadi from the Nguruman Escarpment and the Loita Hills.

Getting Around

Private vehicles are the best way to access Lake Magadi and Olorgasalie.

Accommodation

There are a range of lodges and hotels around Magadi town.

General Facts

Lake Magadi is a saline, alkaline lake, approximately 100 square kilometres in size, which lies in a graven. The lake is an example of a "saline pan". The lake water, which is dense sodium carbonate brine, precipitates vast quantities of the mineral called trona (sodium sesquicarbonate). In places, the salt is up to 40 m thick.

The lake is recharged mainly by saline hot springs (temperatures up to about 83°C) that discharge into alkaline "lagoons" around the lake margins, there being little surface runoff in this arid region. Most hot springs lie along the north-western and southern shorelines of the lake.