Flamingos and wildlife thrills at Soysambu

You don’t need to go far from Nairobi to see some of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes and a staggering array of wildlife. Just 150km north of the Kenyan capital is Soysambu Conservancy, a destination you mightn’t have heard of but which we suspect won’t stay a secret for very long.

One of Soysambu’s outstanding attractions is its large and growing flamingo population. These pretty pink birds have flocked here in their thousands (the conservancy currently holds over a quarter of the world’s lesser flamingos). What’s more, there’s a multitude of other creatures to spot here, including lions, leopards, giraffes, gazelles and impalas.

And the scenery is something to behold too. The conservancy is on the fringes of Lake Elmenteita, providing serene waterside views and wildlife-rich wetland environments. Elsewhere, open plains and lush woodlands spread out to a backdrop of dramatic jagged hills. What’s more, thanks to Soysambu’s conservancy status, you can take in these landscapes on foot, a truly immersive way to enjoy the African wilds.

Environmental importance

Soysambu plays a vital role in protecting wildlife and ecosystems in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Protected as a World Heritage Site and a Ramsar wetlands site, it is a haven for a phenomenal array of wildlife. This includes not only the conservancy’s trademark flamingos but a wide selection of other birdlife, including East Africa’s only breeding colony of great white pelicans . Plus, Soysambu is an important stronghold for endangered Rothschild’s giraffes, and home to zebras, leopards, buffalo, impala and countless other fauna.

As well as providing a protected space for nature to flourish, the conservancy is also actively involved in projects to grow populations of particular species. One ongoing conservation programme has seen families of colobus monkeys translocated to Soysambu. This, and other efforts to nurture and encourage wildlife makes this conservancy not only a positive force for African sustainability but a fascinating and thrilling place for wildlife lovers to visit.

Staying at Soysambu

Our accommodation of choice is Lake Elmenteita Serena Camp. With four poster suites and lavish furnishings, there’s style and opulence aplenty here. Guests can also enjoy home comforts that include free Wi-Fi in each tent and throughout the camp. And there’s the added indulgence of a private balcony with gorgeous views over the lake.

We would recommend at least a couple of nights’ stay – enough time to settle in and appreciate the delights both of this lovely camp and the beautiful conservancy surrounding it. It would be the ideal stepping stone on the way to a classic safari on the Masai Mara or a homestead stay in Laikipia.

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