Siaya is often referred to as the county of diverse lakes and for a good reason! When you find yourself in this captivating part of Kenya, make it a priority to explore the county and uncover the magic behind these five stunning lakes. They draw scientists and tourists alike, each eager to experience the unique beauty and vibrant ecosystems that make Siaya a must-visit destination!

Lake Kanyaboli

Lake Kanyaboli forms the mouth of both Rivers Nzoia and Yala. The lake wears the tag of the second-largest oxbow lake in Africa. Which is, first, seems to be a mystery, though. Researchers refer to it as a ‘living museum’ because of the refugee populations of cichlids, which exist only here in Kenya. The fish that was once abundant here has since disappeared from Lake Victoria. The Papyrus Yellow Warbler and the Papyrus Gonolek are two globally threatened birds that visitors can have the good fortune of spotting on the papyrus fringes of the lake. Lake Kanyaboli is also a popular site for the nationally endangered Sitatunga antelope. You can also see Vervet monkeys, spotted necked otters and bush pigs.

Lake Namboyo

This lake is also known to the locals as Lake Nyambonya. It forms part of the extensive Yala swamp complex. Here, one can also see some of the pristine papyrus swamps which merge with the Yala swamp.

Lake Bob

The artificial Lake Bob is the negative end product of the damming of River Yala for commercial agricultural production. At the centre of this is the controversial Dominion farm. You can read more on the intrigues of this American company and why it is now in new hands here. Along Ojuru Beach, one can get great views of the equator line as it traverses the lake. The Lake is a common ground for waterfowl. You are likely to see the Egyptian Goose, Whiskered Terns, the Hadada, the Great Cormorant, the Little Egrets and even the Ibis. Hippos and reptiles are also possible to spot.

Lake Sare

Besides being home to a toxic cancer-causing form of algae, Lake Sare is the chief supplier of fish to Lake Victoria. The lake forms part of the outlet of Yala River into Lake Victoria. Papyrus swamps surround the lake before merging with the Yala swamp. If you are lucky, you might even stumble upon the local fishermen as they collect the day’s catch from their wiras. The wira is a fishing device made out of the stems of common reeds. You will find wiras constructed around lagoons and the mouth of Lake Sare to Victoria.

Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake by area. It is also the largest tropical lake in the world and the world’s second-largest freshwater lake by surface area after Lake Superior in North America. On this side of Siaya, the lake has an excellent wetland surface that offers birdwatchers a fantastic expedition. The site is a migratory route for numerous birds that come to nest and breed. Wildlife lovers will be thrilled with game safaris to see hippos, antelopes and other wildlife.

These five lakes not only provide a home to some of Kenya’s most endangered animals but are also a source of livelihood for the people of Siaya. They also offer great tourist destinations. Explore them.