Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in the Great Rift Valley, about two hours’ drive northwest of Nairobi. Together with nearby Hell’s Gate National Park, it makes a relaxed stop on the way to the Maasai Mara or Lake Nakuru, and it offers activities you cannot do in most Kenyan parks.
Things to Do at Lake Naivasha
- Boat ride: glide past hippos, fish eagles, pelicans and many other water birds.
- Crescent Island: a private sanctuary where you can walk among giraffe, zebra, impala and other grazers, since there are no big predators on the island.
- Birdwatching: over 400 species have been recorded around the lake.
- Lakeside lodges: gardens full of colobus monkeys and birds make a restful overnight stop.
Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate is one of the few Kenyan parks where you can walk and cycle among wildlife. Its red cliffs and gorges are said to have inspired scenery in animated films, and the landscape is dramatic.
- Cycling: rent a bike at the gate and ride among zebra, giraffe, eland and buffalo. There are no lions in the park, which is why cycling is allowed.
- Fischer’s Tower and the gorge: a guided walk through narrow rock walls is the highlight for many visitors.
- Geothermal features: steam vents and hot springs show the volcanic activity beneath the Rift Valley.
How Long Should You Stay?
One night is enough to enjoy a boat ride, Crescent Island and a half-day at Hell’s Gate. If you are heading to the Mara, a night at Naivasha also breaks up the long drive.
Best Time to Visit
Naivasha can be visited all year. The driest months are June to October and December to February, while March to May and November bring rain and green landscapes. Bring a light jacket for the cool evenings by the lake.
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