Lake Magadi
Close to Nairobi and even closer to Tanzania lies Magadi. Tucked away in southern Kenya’s Kajiado region, you’ll discover a piece of raw untamed nature.
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Discover the rugged beauty of Kenya’s Magadi region
The Magadi region is one of the most otherworldly and untouched landscapes in East Africa. Sitting on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, just a few hours from Nairobi, you’ll find the blistering hot Lake Magadi. This salt lake is famous for its pink flamingos, natural hot springs and surreal volcanic rock formations. The area is perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and are looking for a true off the beaten track adventure. At Charlie’s Travels we camp right in the middle of this magical wilderness to experience the real Magadi.
Things to do around Magadi
Magadi might feel far away from everything, but that doesn’t mean there’s a lack of adventure here.
Go on a motorbike safari with the Maasai
This is hands down one of our favorite experiences in Kenya, the motorbike safari through Magadi. You can choose to drive yourself or just hop on the back and soak in the views and the bumpy African massage. Together with your guide, the motorbike riders and a mechanic you’ll hit the dusty trails and go looking for wildlife. You’ll be riding a 150cc Honda or Bajaj Boxer through vast plains, visiting the hot springs (no swimming here unfortunately) and learning more about local Maasai culture. As the sun sets you’ll set up camp, share stories about that one bright pink flamingo or the animals you spotted, enjoy dinner by the fire and gaze at the starry sky. The next day you’ll ride back to civilization with a big grin on your face.
Kayaking on the Magadi River
Spend four days completely off the grid as you kayak from campsite to campsite. That’s what’s waiting for you when you travel through Kenya with Charlie’s Travels. This experience isn’t just about floating down the river. You’ll kick things off with a motorbike ride, go on a bushwalk, track baboons with the Lale’enok Baboon Project and dive into Maasai culture with a visit to a manyatta. Don’t worry, a local guide and chef join you the whole way to make sure everything runs smoothly.
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All your burning questions about Magadi answered
Where is Magadi in Kenya?
Magadi is in southern Kenya, in Kajiado County, about 120 kilometers from Nairobi. It’s a wild and dry region sitting on the edge of the Great Rift Valley.
What is there to do in Magadi?
As mentioned above, the highlights include exploring the salt flats of Lake Magadi and meeting the Maasai community. With Charlie’s Travels you’ll camp in unique spots right in the middle of this otherworldly landscape. Picture yourself sleeping under a blanket of stars, far away from civilization.
When is the best time to visit Magadi?
The best months are from June to October and from January to February. It’s dry, easy to explore and you’ll have the best chance to see flamingos and enjoy clear stunning views.
Can you swim in Lake Magadi?
You can’t swim in the lake itself because of the high salt levels.
How do you get to Magadi from Nairobi?
The drive from Nairobi takes about three to four hours in a 4x4 along the Magadi Road. On the way you’ll pass through classic Kenyan savanna and lush rolling hills.
Is Magadi safe for travelers?
Yes, it’s safe to visit. We do recommend traveling with a local guide or a company like Charlie’s Travels, especially since the area is quite remote.
Why is Lake Magadi pink?
The pink color comes from algae and the huge numbers of flamingos that feed on them. The salt and minerals in the water add to that striking appearance.
What makes Magadi unique compared to other places in Kenya?
Magadi feels like another planet with its salt flats, volcanic rocks, heat and silence. And because you camp out here with us, you get to experience it in the purest, most adventurous way possible.
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