Lake Paradise is a stunning crater lake nestled within the Marsabit National Park in northern Kenya. Surrounded by thick montane forest, this serene and scenic lake sits inside an extinct volcanic crater on the slopes of Mount Marsabit. The lake is one of the most beautiful and tranquil destinations in Kenya, often referred to as a “hidden gem in the desert.” It has attracted naturalists, explorers, and wildlife lovers for decades and remains one of the top attractions in Marsabit County.
How to Reach Lake Paradise, Marsabit
Lake Paradise is located within the boundaries of Marsabit National Park. The lake can be accessed via the following options:
- By Road: From Nairobi, it’s about 560 kilometers to Marsabit town via the A2 highway. The route passes through Isiolo and Archers Post. A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended due to uneven terrain within the park.
- From Marsabit Town: Lake Paradise is approximately 6 km from Marsabit town and can be reached by local taxi or tour vehicle. A short drive and hike through the forest will bring you to the lake viewpoint.
- By Air: There’s an airstrip in Marsabit town for private and chartered flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.
Weather at Lake Paradise, Marsabit
The climate around Lake Paradise is cooler and wetter than the surrounding arid regions due to its high elevation and forest cover:
- Temperature: Daytime temperatures range between 20°C to 28°C; nights can be cool with temperatures dropping to 12°C or lower.
- Rainfall: The area experiences short rains in November and longer rains from March to May.
- Best Time to Visit: June to October and December to February offer the best weather for exploration and wildlife sightings.
Timing and Operating Hours
Lake Paradise is accessible during Marsabit National Park’s standard operating hours:
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including weekends and public holidays.
- Recommended Visit Time: Morning and late afternoon are best for bird watching and game viewing.
Why Famous for Lake Paradise, Marsabit?
Lake Paradise holds a legendary status due to its unmatched beauty, rich biodiversity, and historical significance:
- It served as a favorite retreat for early 20th-century explorers such as Martin and Osa Johnson who documented wildlife and local culture here.
- The lake is surrounded by a dense, misty forest that contrasts with the surrounding desert plains, creating a magical visual effect.
- It is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Entry and Visit Details about Lake Paradise, Marsabit
Lake Paradise is part of Marsabit National Park, and entry is regulated by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Here are the key visitor details:
- Entry Fees:
- Citizens: KES 300 (adult), KES 215 (child)
- Residents: KES 1,030 (adult), KES 515 (child)
- Non-Residents: USD 52 (adult), USD 35 (child)
- Payment: Entry fees are payable via M-PESA or eCitizen at the gate.
- Guides and Tours: Local guides and KWS rangers are available to lead walking safaris and game drives around the lake.
- Accommodation: Options include the historic Marsabit Lodge overlooking the lake, local guesthouses in Marsabit town, and designated campsites inside the park.
History and Architecture
Lake Paradise has a rich legacy associated with exploration, conservation, and natural science:
- It gained global fame through the works of Martin and Osa Johnson, pioneering American wildlife filmmakers who visited in the 1920s and 1930s. Their book “I Married Adventure” and wildlife documentaries introduced Lake Paradise to a global audience.
- Ahmed the Elephant, Kenya’s most famous elephant, roamed near Lake Paradise and became a symbol of elephant conservation.
- The Marsabit Lodge, built during colonial times, is one of Kenya’s oldest park lodges and offers a panoramic view of the lake from its location above the crater rim.
Things to Do at Lake Paradise, Marsabit
There are several exciting and tranquil activities for visitors to enjoy at Lake Paradise:
- Bird Watching: Over 500 bird species including the crowned eagle, red-knobbed coot, and masked lark can be spotted around the lake.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, baboons, and bushbucks that come to drink at the lake or roam nearby forest paths.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Short guided hikes through the forest offer a chance to observe flora, birds, and insects up close.
- Photography: The lake’s mirror-like reflection, mist-covered trees, and morning light make it perfect for landscape and wildlife photography.
- Relaxation: Enjoy a quiet picnic near the lake or at one of the designated rest points.
Facts about Lake Paradise, Marsabit
- Lake Paradise is an extinct crater lake formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago.
- It is fed by underground springs and seasonal rainfall, maintaining water even during dry spells.
- The surrounding Marsabit forest is classified as a cloud forest – a rare feature in arid northern Kenya.
- The lake served as a filming location for early wildlife documentaries in the 20th century.
- It was a favorite destination for Kenya’s first president, Jomo Kenyatta, who recognized its ecological value.
Tips about Lake Paradise, Marsabit
- Bring a good pair of binoculars and a camera with zoom lenses for optimal wildlife and bird viewing.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing to adapt to the shifting temperatures.
- Use local guides to enhance your understanding of the area’s ecology and history.
- Travel in a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the rainy season when paths can be slippery.
- Respect the wildlife and environment – do not litter or disturb animals near the lake.
- Carry enough drinking water and snacks as there are limited commercial facilities inside the park.
