Ultimate Guide to Lake Naivasha in Kenya
Lake Naivasha is the second largest, freshwater lake in Kenya. It is located in the Great Rift Valley, Naivasha county, a short distance from Naivasha town. The distance from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha is 110 km. By road, it will take you approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
The lake is an overflow of beauty with tranquil surroundings decorated with the presence of a variety of wild animals and bird species from around the world. Lake Naivasha National Park Forest surrounding the lake is home to over 400 bird species, making it the perfect destination for birdies from all corners of the world.
A trip to the lake will treat you to a stunning forest of Acacia Xanthophloea, as you enjoy the magnificent sight of buffalos wallowing in the swampy, marshy areas or the humongous hippos sleeping in the shallow ends of the lake.
The lake is also the perfect place to watch monkeys swing from treetop to treetop with a backdrop of the tall giraffes majestically striding across the acacia trees. In this article, we will give you all the information you need to make your Kenya safari to lake Naivasha a reality.
How to Book Your Naivasha Tour with Us
We are one of the best travel agencies in Kenya that offers the best tours to Kenya. You can send an email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com to book your safari and get more information about Naivasha prices. You can also call or WhatsApp us at +254-748-258-880.
Our Most Booked Naivasha Packages and Other Kenya Tours
2025 SPECIAL PACKAGES | SAFARI PRICE FROM | DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY |
7 Days Kenya Luxury Safari | From USD 4283 | |
3 Days Masai Mara Tour | From USD 1408 | |
3 Days Masai Mara Lodge Safari | From USD 1408 | |
Nairobi Full-Day Tour | From USD 34 | |
5 Days Flying Safari in Kenya | From USD 6685 | |
4 Days Kenya Migration Tour | From USD 1920 | |
3 Days Masai Mara Camping Safari | From USD 930 | |
4 Days Mombasa/Diani Safari | From USD 1184 | |
4 Days Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Tour | From USD 1236 | |
3 Days Masai Mara Christmas Deals | From USD 1380 | |
4 Days Masai Mara Camping Safari | From USD 1300 | |
4 Days Diani Easter Holiday | At USD 1298 |
How to Get to Lake Naivasha - Lake Naivasha Location
For those looking to get to the shores of Lake Naivasha from Nairobi, there are several options for getting there. The most popular way is by car – as it is only a 90-minute drive from the capital.
There are also various shuttle bus services that can take visitors to Naivasha. While these buses may be more affordable than cars, they take longer and can be less reliable. Another option is taking a SGR train to Naivasha from Nairobi – although this does require an extra transfer, it is still a popular choice for many visitors as it offers great views of the surrounding landscapes.
Finally, some people choose to fly to Naivasha – there are several airstrips around Naivasha that offer flights from Nairobi.
Best Time to Visit Lake Naivasha
The best time to visit Lake Naivasha is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these times, the lake’s water levels are at their highest and temperatures are milder than in other parts of Kenya.
The months between December and March tend to be the most popular for visitors as they offer some of the most spectacular views of the lake and its surrounding wildlife. Another great time to experience Lake Naivasha is during the rainy season, between April and June.
This is when the lake often experiences extreme levels of flooding during which large areas are submerged, creating interesting new ecosystems with a mix of aquatic creatures that cannot be found at other times of year. Visiting in this period can also provide a unique chance to observe the local birdlife, as this is when many of them migrate back to Naivasha.
It can also be an ideal opportunity for keen fishermen to take advantage of the lake’s rich fish stocks. Regardless of when you visit, you will be excited to note that there is no Lake Naivasha entry fee you will incur.
The Top 10 Accommodation for Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru
There are many options for accommodation around Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, offering a variety of experiences. Whether you are looking for luxury lodges with spectacular views or simple camping sites to enjoy the outdoors, there is something for everyone.
Here is our list of the top 10 accommodations around Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru:
1. Naivasha Simba Lodge – This luxury lodge offers stunning views across the lake and is great for couples or groups looking to enjoy a luxurious holiday in the region.
2. Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort – This five-star resort offers a range of amenities, from exquisite dining to an outdoor swimming pool and spa.
3. The Great Rift Valley Lodge – Located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley and overlooking Lake Nakuru, this luxury lodge is perfect for those looking for a relaxing holiday with exceptional service.
4. Lake Naivasha Resort – Located at the mouth of Hell’s Gate National Park, this resort offers a variety of adventure activities and stunning views across the lake.
5. Lake Naivasha Country Club – This Lake Naivasha hotel is set in beautiful gardens and overlooks the lake, with plenty of amenities for golfers, swimmers and sports enthusiasts alike.
6. Lake Nukuru Lodge – Set on the banks of Lake Nukuru, this lodge offers comfortable bedrooms and plenty of activities, such as boat trips, birdwatching and game drives.
7. Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge – Situated in the heart of Lake Nakuru National Park, this lodge offers spectacular views across the lake and a variety of activities, from game drives to birdwatching.
8. Flamingo Hill Tented Camp – Located in one of the most picturesque corners of Lake Nakuru, this luxury tented camp offers exclusive accommodation with breathtaking views.
9. Chui Lodge – Chui Lodge is a great choice for those who want to explore Lake Naivasha but still enjoy luxury accommodation. The lodge offers stunning views of the lake, as well as many activities such as horse riding and boat trips.
10. Mbweha Camp – Mbweha Camp is located in Nakuru, Kenya and overlooks the beautiful Lake Nakuru National Park. It is the perfect place to get away from it all and experience the beauty of nature at its finest.
Top 10 Things to Do in Naivasha
What is Lake Naivasha famous for? Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake located in Kenya and it is famous for its abundance of wildlife, including hippos, giraffes, zebras, and more than 400 species of birds. Below is what to do in Lake Naivasha:
1. Bird Watching
With over 450 bird species, the lake is a world-class destination for bird watchers. The number of bird species in the lake is at its highest from October all the way to March when the migratory birds arrive. Common birds in the lake include:
- The pink-backed pelicans
- Long-tailed cormorants.
- Goliath heroine.
- Black-lored babblers.
- Grey-capped warblers.
- Pelicans.
- White-fronted bee-eaters.
- Great white egrets.
- Brimstone canaries.
- Weavers,
- and the iconic fish eagles.
Owls, fish eagles and other birds of prey known to feed on hatched flamingoes, turtles, crocodiles and rock hyraxes are also present in the lake.
2. Crescent Island Game Sanctuary
The Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is a peninsula located on the eastern side of Lake Naivasha. The private island often referred to as ‘Lake Naivasha’s well-kept secret’ has a lot in store for you. Some of the animals you will spot at the island include:
- Impalas
- Wildebeests
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Waterbucks,
- and elands call this beautiful island home.
The island is also a haven for over 200 bird species, some of them are; herons, fish eagles, lily-trotters, and ospreys. Boat rides along lake Naivasha provide a perfect view of the island, dotted with animals such as the hippos, kongoni, and zebras.
The island is also ideal for activities such as hiking, biking, walking and weekend retreats.
3. Things to Do in Naivasha - Boat Excursions
Nothing beats a guided boat safari out on the calm waters of Lake Naivasha. The cool breeze of the lake is magnificent; a thing made even more stunning by the enormous number of birds moving about above you.
See animals such as the Cape buffalo while on your intriguing boat safari.
4. Oserian Wildlife Conservancy
The conservancy was started in 1988 with the aim of protecting all biodiversity and becoming a sustainable ecotourism destination. The conservancy is home to herbivores such as the White Rhino, Grevy’s zebra, Burchell’s zebra, Wildebeests, Impalas, Thomson’s and Grant gazelles.
You will also see Giraffes, Warthogs, waterbucks, and buffalos. Predators in the sanctuary are also very well represented. They include; caracals, leopards, hyenas, servals, and cheetahs.
The sanctuary is also home to over 300 bird species. One such bird is the rare Somali ostrich.
5. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary
The Crater Lake has breathtaking jade colored waters believed, by residents, to possess some healing powers. Solo walks around the parks are allowed, giving you a chance to have close interactions with the wild animals in the sanctuary.
Among key animals in the park are the rare white and black Colobus monkeys. Other animals in the park are giraffes, buffalos, zebras and over 150 species of birds.
6. Game Drive at Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is located near Lake Naivasha and forms part of the Great Rift Valley. The park is home to many species of mammals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and buffaloes. It also boasts a variety of birdlife including flamingos and other waterfowl.
7. Things to do in Naivasha - Climb Mt. Longonot
Are you a lover of adventure? How about a hike up a dormant volcano? The Mt. Longonot is only 16.1km away from the lake. The hike up the mountain is a stimulating adventure that will see you interact with animals such as the leopards, antelopes and the buffalos.
A trip from Lake Naivasha to the mountain can be combined with other fun activities.
8. Visit the Lake Elementaita
Although Lake Bogoria is the most famous flamingo site, Lake Elementaita also has its equal share of the beautiful pink colored birds. The 55.5km ride to the lake will not take you more than 2 hours, but it’s as refreshing as it can get.
9. OlKaria Geothermal Spa
The OlKaria Geothermal Spa is situated within the Hell’s Gate National Park, 24.8km away from Lake Naivasha. The spa is the biggest of its kind in the continent.
The human-made OlKaria pools are perfect for a dip, and our safari guides, all born and raised in Kenya, will happily take you there for this once in a lifetime experience.
10. Kariandusi Cradle of Mankind
Rumor has it that this is the place man’s journey began. The place dates back to over 1 million years ago.