Things to Do in Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha, Kenya - Complete Travel Guide

Lake Naivasha is a stunning freshwater lake located in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. This picturesque destination sits at an elevation of 1,884 meters above sea level and is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including over 400 bird species, hippos, and diverse flora. The lake's name derives from the Maasai word 'Nai'posha,' meaning 'rough water,' referring to the sudden storms that can arise on its surface. As one of Kenya's most accessible safari destinations, Lake Naivasha offers visitors a perfect blend of water-based activities, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences. The area is dotted with luxury lodges, budget-friendly campsites, and flower farms that contribute significantly to Kenya's economy. The lake serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Hell's Gate National Park and Mount Longonot, making it a popular weekend getaway for both locals and international tourists seeking a tranquil escape from urban life.

Top Things to Do in Lake Naivasha

Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha

Embark on a peaceful boat ride across the calm waters of Lake Naivasha to observe hippos lounging in the shallows and countless bird species along the shoreline. The boat safari offers excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the lake's ecosystem. Many tours include a stop at Crescent Island for a walking safari among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

Booking Tip: Book boat safaris through your lodge or local operators for $25-40 per person. Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) trips offer the best wildlife viewing and lighting for photography. Choose operators with life jackets and experienced guides.

Hell's Gate National Park Adventure

Explore one of Kenya's few national parks where you can walk or cycle among wildlife without a vehicle. Hell's Gate features dramatic rock formations, natural hot springs, and geothermal activity that inspired Disney's Lion King scenery. The park offers excellent hiking opportunities through gorges and past towering cliffs, with chances to spot buffalo, zebras, and various antelope species.

Booking Tip: Park entry costs $26 for non-residents. Bicycle rental is available at the gate for $10-15 per day. Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds. Consider hiring a local guide for gorge walks ($15-20) for safety and enhanced experience.

Mount Longonot Hiking

Challenge yourself with a hike up this dormant volcano located just south of Lake Naivasha, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. The trail takes you through diverse vegetation zones before reaching the crater rim, where you can walk around the entire circumference. The hike typically takes 3-5 hours depending on fitness level and provides excellent photo opportunities of the surrounding landscape.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is $26 for non-residents. Start early (6-7 AM) to avoid afternoon heat and potential clouds obscuring views. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy hiking boots. Guide services cost $15-25 and are recommended for first-time visitors.

Crescent Island Walking Safari

Experience a unique walking safari on this private island sanctuary where you can walk freely among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and various antelope species without fences or vehicles. The crescent-shaped island offers stunning lake views and is particularly famous for its role in the movie 'Out of Africa.' The gentle animals are accustomed to human presence, making for incredible close-up wildlife encounters and photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Access costs $25-30 per person including boat transfer from the mainland. Best visited in the afternoon when animals are more active. Book through lake-side lodges or boat operators. Allow 2-3 hours for the full experience including boat transfers.

Flower Farm Tours

Discover Kenya's thriving floriculture industry with guided tours of the numerous flower farms surrounding Lake Naivasha. These tours provide insight into how roses, carnations, and other flowers are grown and exported to European markets daily. Visitors learn about sustainable farming practices, employment opportunities for local communities, and the significant role flower farming plays in Kenya's economy.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $15-25 per person and must be arranged in advance through lodges or tour operators. Weekday visits offer better access to active operations. Some farms offer combined tours with lunch packages for $35-50. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.

Getting There

Lake Naivasha is easily accessible from Nairobi via the modern Nairobi-Nakuru highway, with the journey taking approximately 1.5-2 hours by road. Regular matatu (shared taxi) services operate from Nairobi's central business district to Naivasha town for around $3-5 per person, while private taxis cost $80-120 for the entire vehicle. Many visitors opt for organized tours or rent vehicles in Nairobi, as having your own transport provides flexibility to explore the various attractions around the lake. The road is well-maintained and suitable for all types of vehicles, making it one of the most accessible destinations in Kenya's Rift Valley region.

Getting Around

Most accommodations around Lake Naivasha offer shuttle services to key attractions, while bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the immediate lake shore area and Hell's Gate National Park. Boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) provide quick transport for short distances at $2-5 per trip, though they're not suitable for game viewing activities. Many visitors find that booking organized tours through their lodges is the most convenient option, as these include transportation, guides, and often combine multiple activities. For independent travelers, hiring a local guide with a vehicle costs $50-80 per day and provides valuable local knowledge while supporting the community.

Where to Stay

Lake Naivasha Shoreline
Kongoni Area
Moi South Lake Road
Naivasha Town Center
Hell's Gate Vicinity
Crescent Island Area

Food & Dining

The dining scene around Lake Naivasha ranges from lodge restaurants serving international cuisine with lake views to local eateries in Naivasha town offering traditional Kenyan dishes. Most lakeside lodges provide excellent buffet meals featuring fresh fish from the lake, including tilapia and black bass, alongside continental and local specialties. For budget travelers, Naivasha town offers numerous local restaurants where you can enjoy nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali, and other Kenyan staples for under $5. Several lodges also offer special dining experiences such as sundowner cocktails by the lake or bush breakfast packages during game drives.

When to Visit

Lake Naivasha can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to March when wildlife viewing is optimal and roads are in excellent condition. The long rains from April to May can make some areas muddy and less accessible, though the landscape becomes lush and green with fewer crowds. Bird watching is particularly spectacular from November to April when migratory species arrive, while the dry months offer better hiking conditions for Mount Longonot and clearer lake waters for boat safaris. Weekends tend to be busier with domestic tourists, so weekday visits often provide a more peaceful experience.

Insider Tips

Pack layers as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night due to the high altitude, with warm days and cool evenings
Book accommodations well in advance during peak seasons and Kenyan school holidays when domestic tourism increases significantly
Bring binoculars for bird watching as Lake Naivasha is home to over 400 species, and consider downloading a bird identification app to enhance your experience

Explore Activities in Lake Naivasha