Lake Naivasha National Park

Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, renowned for its rich birdlife, resident hippos, and scenic boat rides. Covering about 139 square kilometers, it is one of the few freshwater lakes in the region and a favorite weekend getaway for both locals and international travelers. The lake is surrounded by flower farms, private conservancies, and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a peaceful yet vibrant safari stop.

Location

Lake Naivasha lies in Nakuru County, about 90 km (56 miles) northwest of Nairobi, just off the Nairobi–Nakuru highway. It sits at an elevation of 1,884 meters (6,180 feet), making it the highest Rift Valley lake. 

Popular Reasons to Visit

• Boat Safaris – Cruise on the lake to spot hippos, fish eagles, and pelicans at close range.

• Birdwatching Haven – Over 350 bird species, including kingfishers, cormorants, and herons.

• Crescent Island Sanctuary – A walking safari destination where giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roam freely.

• Easy Accessibility – Just a short drive from Nairobi, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

• Nearby Parks & Adventures – Close to Hell’s Gate National Park, Mt. Longonot, and Crater Lake.

Best Time to Visit

• June to September – Dry season with comfortable weather, great for outdoor activities.

• October to December – Short rains make the area lush and green, ideal for photography.

• January to February – Hot and dry, perfect for boating and walking safaris.

• March to May – Long rains; the lake is beautiful, though some activities may be limited.

How to Get There

• By Road: About a 1.5–2 hour drive from Nairobi via the Nairobi–Naivasha highway through the scenic Rift Valley escarpments.

• By Air: Small charter flights can land at Naivasha Airstrip, though most travelers come by road.

• By Train: The Nairobi–Naivasha Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) offers passenger service to nearby Mai Mahiu.

Popular Attractions & Points of Interest

1. Boat Rides on Lake Naivasha – Spot hippos, fish eagles, and a variety of waterbirds.

2. Crescent Island Game Sanctuary – Walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes with no predators around.

3. Hell’s Gate National Park – Famous for hiking, cycling safaris, and dramatic gorges.

4. Mt. Longonot – A dormant volcano offering rewarding hikes and crater views.

5. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary – A volcanic lake surrounded by lush forest and wildlife.

Accommodation Options

Lake Naivasha has a wide range of stays, from luxury resorts to cozy lodges:

• Luxury Resorts & Lodges: Lake Naivasha Country Club, Enashipai Resort & Spa, Chui Lodge.

• Mid-range Options: Naivasha Kongoni Lodge, Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge, Crescent Camp.

• Budget Stays: Fisherman’s Camp, Camp Carnelley’s — both popular with backpackers.

• Private Conservancies: Luxury eco-lodges around Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary offer exclusive stays.

General Travel Tips

• Park/Conservancy Fees: Some sanctuaries and attractions (like Crescent Island or Crater Lake) charge small entry fees.

• Boating Safety: Always wear life jackets; keep a safe distance from hippos.

• Clothing: Comfortable, casual clothes; carry a light jacket for evenings.

• Activities: Combine a boat ride with a walking safari or day trip to Hell’s Gate for a full experience.

• Health Precautions: Malaria prophylaxis recommended; carry insect repellent, especially near the lake.

• Travel Combinations: Lake Naivasha pairs perfectly with visits to Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, or Amboseli.