Flamingoes at the Lake Nakuru. [Photo:the-star.co.ke]
Tourism in Lake Nakuru has received a boost after more than 300,000 flamingos migrated back.
This is expected to enrich the experience for international and domestic tourists visiting the central Rift valley-based leisure hub this festive season.After nearly 10 years of hibernation, the birds which are a big tourist attraction are moving back to the lake.The return has painted the once deserted shores into massive pink cover.According to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the lake has witnessed a sharp rise in flamingo population."At least between 300000 and 500,000 flamingo birds are back. I urge tourists to come visit us," said Samuel Tokore, a senior warden at the Lake Nakuru National Park.Hotel owners around the park revealed that the flamingos are boosting their business.
"Our bed occupancy had dropped to 20% as international tourists kept away in the absence of flamingos," said Lake Nakuru Lodge director of marketing and sales, Mr Joseph Muya.
The excessive water from feeder rivers had earlier caused a sharp rise in water, diluting the alkaline level supporting the algae that flamingos feed on.
The pink ribbon round the lake shore is a marvel that attracts more than 35,000 people monthly to Lake Nakuru, one of the most visited Kenya's national parks and reserves.