Olkaria Geothermal Spa
Located at the centre of Hell’s Gate National Park in Nakuru County is Olkaria geothermal spa, the biggest of its kind in the whole of the African Continent.
It consists of natural hot water that collects in a pool. The hot water is from different wells and is in the form of a hot steam that cools through collecting pipes and into a main pool that has temperatures between 30 to 40 degrees centigrade.
The water that flows into the geothermal spa is all natural with no treatments or additives, its rich with several natural minerals that include silica and sulphur.
The geothermal site has in total 41 number of wells. Out of this 33 are production wells and remaining 8 are injection wells.
This article will delve into the activities at Olkaria Geothermal Spa and all that is included:
The Cascaded Lagoons at Olkaria Geothermal Spa
Lagoon one
This is the receiving pond, its Nakuru county’s hottest brine that receives water from several wells. The brine is at the temperature of between 90 to 100 degrees centigrade.
Lagoon two
This Lagoon overflows from lagoon one at a temperature of 50 degrees centigrade. The Lagoon is has both shallow and deep sides.
Lagoon three
This is the largest of all the three lagoons with temperatures at 30 to 40 centigrade; the lagoon receives the overflow Lagoon two and the overpass from lagoon one.
It’s at this lagoon that people swim in hot water; this Lagoon also has a section where children can swim.
This Lagoon is made of concrete and mazera stones line the walk ways, its deep end is 1.5 metres
This Lagoon can hold up to 400 people inside the Lagoon and outside the lagoon there are sitting and lounging facilities that onlookers can enjoy.
Benefits of Swimming at the lagoon in Olkaria Geothermal Spa
It helps to reduce:
- Muscle tears
- Lower back pain
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Spondylitis
- Ankle sprains
- Alleviating respiratory problems
- Enhancing mood
- Improving sleep
- Detoxifying the body
- Boosting the immune system
NB: It should be notable that people with medical conditions are not advised to use the facility
Olkaria Geothermal Hot Spa Charges
In order to access the Spa’s lagoons, a fee has to be charged. At the entrance gate a fee has to be charged and while at the swimming area charges apply too.
Below is a table displaying the charges;
| Category | Hell’s Gate Entrance Fees | Olkaria Geothermal Natural Spa Fees | Total Charges |
| Citizen Adults | KES 250 | KES 400 | KES 650 |
| Citizen Children | KES 200 | KES 100 | KES 300 |
| Resident Adults | KES 250 | KES 1,000 | KES 1,250 |
| Resident Children | KES 200 | KES 500 | KES 700 |
| Non-Resident Adults | USD 20 | USD 18 | USD 38 |
| Non-Resident Children | USD 15 | USD 8.5 | USD 23.5 |
Olkaria Geothermal Spa Restaurant
They have delectable food but to some, it may sound expensive while to others quite affordable.
A plate goes for Kes 300 to Kes600 . They can as well prepare for a buffet on request.
Non-alcoholic drinks are also in plenty just incase you have visited as a group or maybe you’re holding an event.
For the people who are tight on budget, they can visit the sorrounding eatery points like the Kamere Beach where food is affordable to all.
Olkaria Geothermal Spa Accommodation
For accommodation services, there are hotels and lodges around that offer the services at a price ranging from kes 10,000.
They include:
- Alphas Homestay
- Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge
- Sawela Lodge
- Simba Lodge
- Chui Lodge
- Kongoni lodge
- Muthu Lake country club
- Great Rift Valley Lodge and Golf Resort
- El Sueno Homestay
- Ole Itiko Cottages
- Enashipai Resort & Spa
Major attractions and activities
- Aruba Dam
- Game viewing
- Raptor nesting in cliffs
- Spectacular Gorge walk
- Hot springs
- The Olkaria Geothermal Station
- The Mervyn Carnelley Raptor Hide
- Fischer’s Tower
- Tourist circuits, nature trails and picnic site
- Hiking
- Camping Bird watching
- Wildlife viewing
- Rock climbing
- Cycling
Olkaria Geothermal Spa Opening Hours.
They Open from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM. At weekends is when people visit flock at the place most.
How to get there
There are two options to get there:
Take the Nairobi- Nakuru High and drive up to Naivasha Town a distance of about 91 Kilometers.
Once in Naivasha Town – take the famous Moi South Lake and drive for about 22 Kilometers up to the Olkaria Geothermal Spa Naivasha.
The other option, you can hit the Mai Mahiu – Naivasha Road as you have phenomenal views of the great rift valley.
While on that road, you will see Moi South Lake on your Left just 2 Kilometers to Naivasha. Then drive up to the Centre.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of Olkaria Geothermal Natural Spa, it’s evident that this oasis transcends mere relaxation—it’s a harmonious blend of nature’s gifts and human ingenuity.
This is evident in the google rating of of this destination of a total of 4.3 stars after a review of 156 characters.
The therapeutic geothermal waters, surrounded by scenic landscapes, offer a serene escape.
Whether you seek rejuvenation or connection with the Earth’s energy, Olkaria Geothermal Spa stands as a testament to the incredible synergy between geothermal wonders and the pursuit of well-being.
As you bid farewell to this enchanting haven, carry with you the revitalized spirit nurtured by the unique and timeless allure of Olkaria.
FAQs
1. How many Wells drain at Olkaria?
41 wells
