Lake Naivasha is located about two hours’ drive from the capital Nairobi. This region is a true paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. This vast freshwater lake is home to more than 400 bird species, and large groups of hippos are chilling in the water. A stay at this beautiful lake is an absolute must during your trip through Kenya. In this ultimate travel guide, I share all my tips for visiting Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island, including the best activities and most beautiful places to stay.
About Lake Naivasha + Practical Tips
Lake Naivasha is located in the Great Rift Valley, at an altitude of approximately 1,884 meters. This makes it one of the highest lakes in Kenya. Unlike most other lakes in the Rift Valley, it is a freshwater lake, which ensures unique biodiversity. The name “Naivasha” comes from the Maasai word Nai’posha, which means “turbulent water” – a reference to the sometimes sudden weather changes. The climate is mild and pleasant, with temperatures usually between 10°C and 28°C. It is also a popular weekend and holiday destination for Kenyans themselves.
How to reach Lake Naivasha?: Lake Naivasha is located approximately 100 km northwest of Nairobi. The easiest way to get there is by private transfer or rental car. The ride takes about two hours and along the way you drive through beautiful landscapes, sometimes even catching a glimpse of the Rift Valley. The cheapest way to reach Naivasha is by Matatu (a local minivan). This is also the least comfortable way, because the vans are often packed! We made an organized trip with Afrika Safari and had our own driver. This is of course the easiest and most comfortable way to travel around this country.
How many days to spend at Lake Naivasha?: I recommend spending at least two nights at the lake. This gives you time for the most beautiful sights and activities, and you have time to enjoy the peace and nature. We only stayed one night and that was a bit too short. To do all the activities below, I definitely recommend four nights!
You can find cheap plane tickets to Kenya via Tix
What to Do at Lake Naivasha? – the Best Activities
#1 Spot Birds and Hippos During a Boat Safari
An absolute must-do is a boat safari on Lake Naivasha. During this tour, usually in a motorized boat, you get the chance to spot numerous birds. More than 300 bird species live around the lake, including pelicans, colorful kingfishers, flamingos and African sea eagles.
Lake Naivasha is also home to large groups of hippos, which laze in the water during the day to escape the burning sun.
Fun fact: hippos can’t swim! That is why they usually stay in shallow waters, where they move around floating. Their skin is extremely sensitive, so they avoid the bright sun and stay in the water as much as possible during the day. Only when the sun goes down do they go to the banks to feast on the grass. You can spot large groups of grazing hippos around 5 to 6 PM!
#2 Walk among Giraffes on Crescent Island
Crescent Island is a small island in the middle of Lake Naivasha. The crescent-shaped island gained international fame in the 1980s when it was used as one of the filming locations for the iconic film Out of Africa. During the recordings, various animals were brought to the island to create an authentic African setting. Many of these animals remained on Crescent Island, contributing to the unique fauna that you can admire there today. In this nature reserve you walk among giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, ostriches and impalas. For me, undoubtedly a highlight, because nowhere else did we get so close to wildlife and the landscapes are truly magnificent. We combined the visit to Crescent Island with the boat safari over the lake.
#3 Take a Cycling Safari through Hell’s Gate National Park
The nearby Hell “s Gate National Park with its impressive landscapes is definitely worth a visit. Unfortunately, we had too little time to visit this beautiful park. Located south of Lake Naivasha, this unique park offers the opportunity to explore it by bicycle or on foot. Because there are no dangerous predators, you can literally walk or cycle among the wild animals here. In addition to giraffes and zebra” s, you will also encounter baboons and other grazers.
For the adventurers among us, Hell’s Gate is also the place to go mountaineering. The rugged, steep lava slopes are a perfect challenge to test and improve your climbing skills. The place for anyone who loves action and nature!
#4 Go Horseback Riding around Lake Naivasha
Horse riding at Lake Naivasha is a unique way to immerse yourself in nature. On the backs of our beautiful horses we rode through the serene landscape and got surprisingly close to wild animals. From our horse we spotted gazelles, zebras and hippos, and we even rode past a giraffe that was comfortably picking leaves from a tree.
While I enjoy the peace and all that beauty, Joni is terrified on her horse. Not for everyone, such a horse ride!
#5 Climb Mount Longonot
In the mood for an active challenge? Then a hike in this beautiful area, just 15 km from Lake Naivasha, is an absolute must. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to climb Mount Longonot due to lack of time and that is a great pity, because the landscapes make it more than worth it.
Mount Longonot is an impressive volcanic crater that you can walk completely around. The hike is tough – a total of 14 km with quite a few altitude meters. You start at 2,146 meters altitude and must first brave the steep climb to the edge of the crater. The highest point is at 2,780 meters, after which you follow a challenging route of 7.2 km along the crater rim.
At the top you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the lush, green crater and the surrounding landscape. A must for those who love adventure and nature!
Where to Stay at Lake Naivasha?
We stayed at Simba Lodge, a charming and atmospheric accommodation on the banks of the beautiful Lake Naivasha. This lodge is the perfect place to fully immerse yourself in the peace and beauty of nature. What makes this place so special is the unique interaction with wildlife. Zebras and waterbucks graze peacefully on the domain. The animals are so used to people here that you can simply walk among them or spot them on your terrace. After a day full of adventure – or just a relaxing morning in the lodge – you can cool off with a refreshing dip in the pool. Simba Lodge is without a doubt an idyllic base for your stay at Lake Naivasha.
Prefer a different accommodation? I have selected the finest accommodations with the best reviews for you, and that for every budget.
Continue your Journey through Kenya
We visited Lake Naivasha after our stay in the Masai Mara and then traveled on to Amboseli. Two breathtakingly beautiful parks that you should definitely not miss during your trip through Kenya!
- 10-day itinerary through Kenya (Nairobi to Mombasa)
- Ultimate travel guide Masai Mara
- Visit elephant paradise Amboseli
- Discover Wild and Untamed Tsavo West
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