Ol Kokwe Island rises from the middle of Lake Baringo, the visible remnant of the volcanic activity that shaped the whole Rift Valley basin. It's inhabited by a small community, and its volcanic origins are still evident in hot springs found along parts of the shoreline — a genuinely unusual feature to find in the middle of a freshwater lake.
Reaching the island requires a boat crossing from the mainland, arranged through Baringo's lakeshore camps and lodges, and once there, walking trails climb through the island's rocky, semi-arid terrain, offering views back across the lake to the surrounding cliffs and hills. The hike is moderate rather than difficult, well suited to visitors already spending time boating and camping around the lake.
What to do on Ol Kokwe
- Hike to viewpoints across the island for panoramic views over Lake Baringo.
- Visit the natural hot springs along parts of the shoreline — a genuinely unusual Rift Valley feature.
- Combine the visit with a boat trip past hippo pods and the fish eagle feeding spot on the way to or from the island.
- Bring water and sun protection; the island offers little shade over open ground.
Ol Kokwe rounds out a Baringo visit with a distinct, land-based counterpart to the lake's boat safaris — an easy half-day addition for anyone already based at one of the lakeshore camps.
