Discover the Tranquility of Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is the highest and one of the most picturesque of Kenya's Rift Valley lakes - a tranquil freshwater oasis fringed by yellow fever acacia trees and towering papyrus. Just a two-hour drive from Nairobi, it is a beloved weekend escape for locals and visitors alike.
The lake's shores teem with wildlife, from large pods of hippos and magnificent fish eagles to over 400 species of birds. The famous Crescent Island, a private sanctuary connected to the shore, offers the rare chance to walk freely among giraffes, zebras, waterbuck and antelope.
Basic Information
Naivasha also serves as the perfect base for exploring Hell's Gate National Park, the dramatic gorge and geothermal area just a few kilometres away, making it an ideal gateway to adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
- Destination
- Country
- Best Time to Visit
- Lake Size
- Main Wildlife
- Nearest City
- Altitude
- Lake Naivasha
- Kenya
- Year-round; Jun-Oct & Jan-Mar
- 139 sq km
- Hippos & 400+ birds
- Naivasha / Nairobi
- 1,884 m
To glide across the still waters past grumbling hippos, then walk shoulder-to-shoulder with giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island, is to understand why Lake Naivasha has captured travellers for generations.
The Gorge Tours Safari Guide
The best time to visit Lake Naivasha is year-round, with the driest and clearest conditions from June to October and January to March offering superb boat rides, bird watching and walking. The green season from April to June brings lush scenery and good value.
From peaceful boat safaris among hippos to walking among free-roaming wildlife and cycling the dramatic gorges of nearby Hell's Gate, Lake Naivasha is the perfect blend of serene lakeside relaxation and Rift Valley adventure.
Sample 2-Day Lake Naivasha Itinerary
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive to Lake Naivasha. Enjoy an afternoon boat ride across the lake to spot hippos and birds, followed by a guided walk on Crescent Island among grazing wildlife. Dinner and overnight at a lakeside lodge or camp.
After breakfast, head to nearby Hell's Gate National Park for a morning of cycling or a walking safari through gorges and geothermal scenery, with an optional hike to the geothermal spa. After lunch, transfer back to Nairobi, arriving in the late afternoon.
This is a sample itinerary and can be fully customized to suit your dates, budget and interests.
Highlights
- Boat rides across the lake past hippos & water lilies
- Guided walking safari on Crescent Island
- Cycling through nearby Hell's Gate National Park
- Bird watching - over 400 species including fish eagles
- Lakeside camping, lodges & stunning sunsets
- Flower & farm tours on the fertile shores
- Relaxing lakeside nature walks at dawn
