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Lake Simbi Nyaima – Kenya’s “Sleeping Lake” of Legends, Birds & Healing Waters

  • Writer: maria maris
    maria maris
  • Nov 13
  • 4 min read

Hidden deep in Homa Bay County, just a short distance from the shores of Lake Victoria, lies one of Kenya’s most mysterious and culturally powerful natural wonders — Lake Simbi Nyaima.Small, circular, and quietly beautiful, this volcanic crater lake is known for:


  • Its ancient Luo legend about a vanished village

  • Thousands of flamingos that flock to its saline waters

  • Healing, mineral-rich water and mud

  • Deep cultural and spiritual significance


Simbi Nyaima is one of Kenya’s best examples of how geology, history, culture, and wildlife come together to create a truly magical place.


Pink flamingos wade in a tranquil lake at sunset, under a golden sky surrounded by hills, creating a peaceful and serene scene.
Pink flamingos wade in a tranquil lake at sunset, under a golden sky surrounded by hills, creating a peaceful and serene scene.


Where Is Lake Simbi Nyaima Located?


Lake Simbi Nyaima is found in Karachuonyo, Homa Bay County, in western Kenya.

Distance from major towns:


  • 20 minutes from Kendu Bay

  • 1 hour from Homa Bay town

  • 2.5 hours from Kisumu City


It sits quietly in a rural landscape of rolling hills, farms, and small villages — making it a peaceful destination far from crowded tourist spots.


A Crater Lake Born of Volcanic Activity


Simbi Nyaima is a volcanic crater lake, believed to have formed hundreds of years ago through:

  • A volcanic explosion

  • Ground collapse

  • Movement along the Rift Valley system


The lake is:

  • Small and circular

  • Approximately 1 km in diameter

  • Saline and mineral-rich

  • Surrounded by steep crater walls


Its brilliant blue-green water often changes color depending on sunlight and algae concentration, adding to its mysterious beauty.


A Haven for Flamingos


One of the most surprising features of Simbi Nyaima is its seasonal flamingo population.Thousands of lesser flamingos migrate here when saline levels are ideal.


Why they visit:

  • The lake’s salt-rich water supports spirulina algae, their preferred food

  • Quiet, undisturbed environment

  • Shallow waters ideal for feeding


It is often called the “Little Lake Nakuru” because of the breathtaking pink ring that forms around the crater during flamingo season.


Other birds commonly seen include:

  • Egyptian geese

  • Cormorants

  • Herons

  • Kingfishers

  • Sacred ibises


For birdwatchers and photographers, this lake is an unexpected gem.


Healing Water & Mud – Natural Remedies


Local communities believe that the lake’s:

  • Mud

  • Saline water

have healing properties.


Visitors sometimes apply the dark mineral mud to their skin, claiming relief from:

  • Joint pain

  • Skin conditions

  • Muscle fatigue


Scientists have not fully studied its medicinal value, but the lake’s high mineral concentration makes such claims plausible.


Hands covered in dark mud near a serene lake with hills in the background. The mood is calm and earthy. No text visible.
Hands covered in dark mud near a serene lake with hills in the background. The mood is calm and earthy. No text visible.

The Legend of Simbi Nyaima – “The Village That Sank”


Simbi Nyaima is deeply rooted in Luo folklore.


The legend goes:


Long ago, a prosperous but proud village stood where the lake now lies. One night, a tired, hungry old woman arrived in search of food and shelter.The villagers mocked her and chased her away — except for one poor family, who welcomed her, fed her, and gave her a place to rest.


That night, a catastrophic storm struck the village.By morning, everything had sunk into the earth, forming Lake Simbi Nyaima, meaning:

“The village that sank”


The kind family that helped the old woman survived.She was believed to be a spirit or an angel testing the villagers’ kindness.


This legend forms a big part of Luo identity and continues to be told across generations.


Nature, Scenery & Atmosphere


Simbi Nyaima is uniquely scenic:

  • Round crater shape

  • Quiet water surface

  • Gentle winds

  • Rugged crater walls

  • Flamingos floating like pink clouds


The surrounding grasslands and nearby Lake Victoria basin give it a peaceful, untouched charm.


Sunrise and sunset create especially magical reflections.


Things to Do at Lake Simbi Nyaima


1. Birdwatching


Flamingos are the highlight, but many water birds also live here year-round. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best sightings.


2. Photography


The lake’s circular shape, crater walls, and flamingo flocks create perfect conditions for landscape and wildlife photography.


3. Nature Walks


Walk around the crater rim and enjoy:

  • Panoramic views

  • Rural countryside scenery

  • Close-up nature encounters


4. Cultural Learning


Local guides share:

  • The history of the lake

  • Luo traditions

  • The haunting legend of the sinking village


5. Mud Therapy


Some visitors apply the mineral mud for fun or skincare, as locals believe it has healing properties.


Best Time to Visit


Simbi Nyaima can be visited any time, but the best period for flamingo sightings is:

July – October

and

December – February

Dry seasons make the lake more saline, attracting flamingos and increasing water clarity.


How to Get There


You can reach Simbi Nyaima via:

From Kisumu:

  1. Drive toward Kendu Bay

  2. Continue to Karachuonyo

  3. Follow signs to the lake

From Homa Bay:

  • 1-hour drive via Kendu Bay route


Roads are partly murram but accessible by normal vehicles.


Where to Stay


There are no lodges at the lake, but you can stay nearby at:

Kendu Bay

  • Small guesthouses

  • Boutique hotels

  • Local homestays

Homa Bay

  • Cold Springs Hotel

  • Starwaves Hotel

  • Tourist cottages

Kisumu

  • Best for comfortable, high-end stays


Conservation Importance


Simbi Nyaima is recognized by conservationists because:


  • It supports migrating flamingos

  • It protects a sensitive crater ecosystem

  • It offers a freshwater-saltwater transition zone

  • It holds cultural significance for the Luo community


Local organizations and county officials work to prevent pollution, overuse, and environmental degradation.


Why Visit Lake Simbi Nyaima


Simbi Nyaima is one of Kenya’s most unique destinations — a rare blend of:


  • Mythology

  • Natural beauty

  • Healing traditions

  • Birdlife

  • Peace and solitude


It offers a quiet moment in nature, a dive into Luo legend, and a chance to experience one of Kenya’s lesser-known natural wonders.


For travelers seeking authentic, peaceful, culturally rich destinations —Lake Simbi Nyaima is a must-visit.

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