Did you know that Olkaria Geothermal Spa in Naivasha is Kenya’s premier destination for energy tourism? It’s a remarkable tourist destination with unique experiences. This is the biggest naturally-occurring spa in Africa sitting in the energy-rich Olkaria fields at Hells Gate National Park.
Olkaria geothermal dates back to 1981 when the first plant, Olkaria 1 Geothermal Plant produced geothermal energy. Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) initiated the project and now runs six other plants. Their success inspired the creation of the spa in 2014. So, if you’re looking for a unique place to unwind and relax, add this geothermal spa to your bucket list.
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Where is Olkaria Geothermal Spa Located?
The spa is in Olkaria located in the middle of Hells Gate National Park along Moi South Lake Road. It’s approximately 35km from Naivasha town. Naivasha is a famous tourist destination in the Rift Valley. Its tourism headquarters made up of hotels, camps, lodges and AirBnBs are on Moi South Lake Road which leads to Hells Gate and eventually to Olkaria Geothermal Spa. Visitors from Nairobi enjoy a two-and-a-half-hour ride – approximately 122 km to the geothermal fields.
Olkaria Geothermal wells are located within Hells Gate National Park in Naivasha. Photo/KenGen
How Much is Swimming at Olkaria Geothermal Spa?
Charges for swimming in the spa’s three cascaded blue lagoons are affordable. Here is why: They are warm day and night and in all seasons. KenGen designed the lagoons to receive hot brine from all geothermal wells. Brine is wet steam that is allowed to cool to a certain degree before it’s released into the pool.
The company used steel trowelling concrete for all three pools instead of the usual ceramic tiles used in swimming pools to avoid corrosion. This brine from the wells carries huge amounts of natural minerals which could corrode ceramic tiles in the pools. However, the use of steel trowelling concrete mitigates all this. The first pool is Olympic-sized with a depth of 1.5 m and is for adults. Its overflow feeds the second pool which is three-quarters the size of the first pool with deep and shallow ends. Water in this pool is at least 500 Celsius.
Lastly, the third pool can accommodate 400 people and has a water temperature of 35 degrees Celsius. This third pool has an extension of a baby pool where children can safely swim with lifeguards on standby.
What are the Benefits of Olkaria Geothermal Spa?
Olkaria Geothermal Spa is a relaxation, wellness and healing retreat from steam that occurs naturally. Here are the major benefits of visiting the spa.
- Mental and body relaxation
- Fatigue reduction
- Reduction of cortisol
- Improved sleep quality
- Relief for Arthritis patients
- Supports skin health
- Promotes bone health and anti-aging
Olkaria Geothermal Spa lagoon or infinity pool. It has warm water whose benefits to the body are numerous. Photo/KenGen
Mental and Body Relaxation
Warm water is a stress reliever and a relaxation agent for the mind and body. Several studies indicate that warm water calms down the mind and allows body muscles to relax.
Fatigue Reduction
Your body’s blood circulation improves whenever you relax in a pool with warm water. Poor blood circulation leads to muscle and mental fatigue.
Reduction of Cortisol
Cortisol hormone is associated with stress which is why it’s popularly referred to as a stress hormone. It’s produced by adrenal glands and it can be dangerous at elevated levels because you end up battling the following:
- Rapid weight gain
- Uncontrollable blood sugar
- High blood pressure
- Insomnia and fatigue
- Reduced body immunity
- Relief for Arthritis patients
- Supports skin health
- Promotes bone health and anti-aging
Improved Sleep Quality
Warm baths promote better sleep by relaxing the mind and muscles. Therefore; a pool session at Olkaria Geothermal Spa guarantees you better sleep quality because it lowers your stress levels.
Relief for Arthritis Patients
The brine tapped from the Olkaria Geothermal wells contains heavy Sulphur deposits. Sulphur is a strong pain reliever in muscles and joints. Arthritis mainly causes inflammation in body joints leading to pain.
Supports Skin Health
Sulphur elements in water have healing properties for skin-related diseases such as psoriasis and eczema.
Promotes Bone Health and Anti-aging
Olkaria Geothermal Spa pools contain silica, another natural mineral that helps the body form collagen needed for strong bones. Additionally, it has anti-ageing properties that keep the skin flawless without wrinkles.
How Much is the Entrance Fee at Geothermal Spa?
Adult citizens pay Ksh400 while children (residents) pay Ksh100. Foreigners pay $30 while non-resident children pay $20.
Summary of Olkaria Geothermal Spa entry fees
| Residents | Adult Charges | Children Charges |
| Ksh400 ($3) | Ksh100 ($0.78) | |
| Foreigners | Adult Charges | Children Charges |
| $30 (Ksh3,870) | $20 (Ksh2,580) |
Olkaria Geothermal Spa is a unique African getaway filled with adventure, relaxation, fun experiences and superb hospitality. Your visit will always be memorable. Remember
