Lake Naivasha

Overview

Lake Naivasha, located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, is a popular safari and nature destination known for its serene freshwater lake, rich birdlife, and diverse wildlife. Surrounded by lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes, the area offers boat safaris to see hippos up close, guided nature walks on Crescent Island among zebras and giraffes, and birdwatching with over 400 species recorded. Its proximity to Nairobi makes it an ideal stop for short getaways or as part of a longer safari circuit.

Map

Info

Lake Naivasha, is a tranquil yet vibrant safari destination that offers a unique blend of water-based and land-based wildlife experiences. As one of the few freshwater lakes in the region, it supports a rich ecosystem that attracts a wide variety of birds—over 400 species—including fish eagles, herons, and kingfishers, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The lake is also home to large populations of hippos, which are best observed during peaceful boat safaris that glide across its calm waters. Surrounding the lake are beautiful acacia forests, flower farms, and wildlife conservancies where visitors can enjoy nature walks, bike safaris, and close encounters with giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and more, particularly on Crescent Island and nearby sanctuaries like Crater Lake and Hell’s Gate National Park. Lake Naivasha’s cool climate, scenic beauty, and accessibility from Nairobi make it an ideal destination for family safaris, weekend getaways, or as part of a broader Kenyan safari itinerary that includes Amboseli, Nakuru, and Maasai Mara.

Previous Lake Nakuru National Park

Tour details

  • Boat Trip Enjoy peaceful boat rides to view hippos, fish eagles, and other birdlife up close in their natural freshwater habitat.
  • Crescent Island Game Sanctuary Walk freely among zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and wildebeests on this private sanctuary, offering guided walking safaris with no predators.
  • Birdwatching Lake Naivasha hosts over 400 bird species, making it one of Kenya’s best locations for bird enthusiasts and nature photographers.
  • Crater Lake Game Sanctuary A scenic volcanic crater lake surrounded by lush forest and wildlife, ideal for nature walks and birdwatching in a peaceful setting.
  • Hippo Viewing Large pods of hippos are frequently seen in the lake, best observed during evening boat rides when they are most active.
  • Flower Farms and Scenic Drives Explore the region’s vast flower farms and enjoy scenic drives through the green, fertile landscape around the lake.