Lake Naivasha in Kenya Travel Guide (With Itinerary and to do’s) for 2026!

Welcome to Naivasha in Kenya, one of the few FRESHWATER LAKES in East Africa.

 

Are you wondering WHY I should visit it? What are the TOP THINGS TO DO at Lake Naivasha? How can I fill 1-3 days there?

 

We’ll give you all the answers below!

 

Let’s get started!

 

*This Naivasha travel guide is based on our own trips over the years. Laura grew up in Kenya and has spent YEARS exploring Naivasha’s parks and hidden gems. When she was a kid, she rode a horse in Naivasha and explored the entire area. It’s that insider knowledge you’ll find in this article.

 

Why visit Lake Naivasha?

Lake Naivasha is one of the few freshwater lakes in East Africa. At 6,180 feet (1,884 m) above sea level, the area has a moderate climate, with warm days and cool nights perfect for campfires by the lake!

 

Its depth varies from about 7 to 26 feet (around 2 to 8 meters), and the surface area is about 58 square miles (150 square kilometers).

There are a few reasons why we LOVE NAIVASHA:

1) WILDLIFE (without the crowds): Lake Naivasha has over 400 species of birds and a SUPER LARGE population of HIPPOS. You can also spot giraffes, zebras, waterbuck, and buffalo on the shores or on Crescent Island, all with far fewer tourists than the big national parks.

 

👉 FUN FACT: There are no lions or cheetahs here, which means you can safely explore on foot or by bike (see Hell’s Gate National Park)!

 

2) ONE-OF-A-KIND ADVENTURES: Nowhere else in East Africa lets you cycle past zebras and giraffes in the wild as Hell’s Gate does. Hike up a volcano crater at Mount Longonot for amazing views over the lake, or climb a rock pinnacle like Fischer’s Tower if you’re feeling daring.

 

👉 DID YOU KNOW: When we stayed at Sanctuary Farm, and we were sitting outside our lodge at night, we saw a HIPPO WALKING PAST? Super random, but so so welcome. We absolutely loved it!

 

3) AMAZING LANDSCAPES: Lake Naivasha offers clear views across the water, with Mount Longonot in the distance. From many points around the shore and on the lake itself, you can see the volcano’s crater ridge and the wider Rift Valley landscape.

 

4) RELAXATION: After discovering the lake and the national park, you can relax in natural hot springs at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa or enjoy afternoon tea at the historic Elsamere Conservation Centre (former home of Born Free’s Joy Adamson). There are also quite a fe upscale accommodations available at the lake, which is amazing (see below for recommendations).

 

Where is Naivasha?

Naivasha is located 55 miles (88 km) northwest of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital.

 

By road, it’s an easy 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha on the Nairobi–Nakuru highway (A104).

 

The journey gives you amazing views of the Great Rift Valley, so be sure to stop at the Rift Valley viewpoint for panoramic photos (you’ll see it when you pass there).

 

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND PUBLIC TRANSPORT, like matatus. These shared minibuses can get you to Naivasha for around $2 (€2), but they are overcrowded, and driving standards are way too unpredictable!

 

Road safety is a concern (many people die in accidents with MATATUS every day), so we do not consider them a reliable option for travelers.

 

For a safer alternative, take an UBER. Expect to pay around $50 (about €45) for the trip.

 

👉 INSIDER TIP: Leaving Nairobi early (around 6 – 7 AM) helps you avoid traffic (especially around 9 am) and enjoy a cooler drive. Plus, you can catch breakfast at a Rift Valley escarpment café.

 

Hotels in Naivasha

Sanctuary Farm, Lake Naivasha

Stay on a WORKING FARM right on the lake, surrounded by giraffes, zebra, and antelope roaming freely.

 

Why stay: Peaceful setting, LAKE VIEWS, wildlife everywhere (we saw zebras passing by when we walked to breakfast), and direct access to walking and cycling safaris. It feels intimate and slow, perfect if you want to disconnect.

Price: From $180 USD per night (full board options available)

 

⭐ Rating: 4.6/5

 

👉 Book Sanctuary Farm here

 

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

A classic safari-style resort on the southern shore of Lake Naivasha, among acacia trees and manicured lawns, with animals like HIPPOS, GIRAFFES, and ZEBRAS often visible from the grounds.

 

Why stay: Comfortable rooms with lake or garden views, three restaurants, outdoor pool, and lots of birds and wildlife right outside your balcony for an easy nature escape close to town.

 

Price: From $170 to $230 USD per night, depending on season and room type.

 

⭐ Rating: 4.3/5

 

👉 Book Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort here

 

Lake Naivasha Country Club

A historic lakeside property with large gardens stretching to the water’s edge, originally built in the 1930s.

 

Why stay: Central location, classic colonial atmosphere, and many wildlife sightings like zebra and colobus monkeys around the grounds.

 

Price: From $150 USD per night (bed and breakfast)

 

⭐ Rating: 4.3/5

 

👉 Book Lake Naivasha Country Club here

 

 

Where to eat in Naivasha in Kenya?

Naivasha has some great places to eat. Here are our recommendations!

 

Carnelley’s Bar And Restaurant

Set right on the shore of Lake Naivasha, Carnelley’s is an OUTDOOR RESTAURANT and bar known for its meals like feta samosas, steak wraps, curries, pasta, and our favourite, the WOOD-FIRED PIZZA.

 

It has high ratings in Naivasha and is praised for its BIG PORTIONS and good value.

 

A main meal here is around $10 to $18.

 

Ranch House Bistro

A lakeside favorite on Lake Oloidien, we like it for its fresh, local ingredients and outdoor space.

 

We especially like Ranch House Bistro for its PULLED PORK BURGERS, with steaks and fresh salads also on the menu.

 

Meals cost around 20 USD.

 

Fisherman’s Camp Restaurant

A more casual lakeside restaurant is Fisherman’s Camp with Kenyan and international dishes, right by Lake Naivasha (hippos are often visible from some seating areas).

 

Local favorites include grilled tilapia and breakfasts.

 

Typical meals cost around KES 1,000 to 1,500 ($7 to $10).

 

La Belle Inn

A historic hotel and restaurant in Naivasha town with a colonial-era vibe, famous for its classic pub-style food like grilled whole tilapia from Lake Naivasha with fries and greens, steak and chips, or pasta.

 

Meals at La Belle Inn are generally cheaper than lakeside spots (local dishes or fish around local price levels, often under $10), and it is a good value stop for a quick pub meal.

 

👉 INSIDER TIP: Don’t leave Naivasha without eating the local NYAMA CHOMA dish (places like Karagita or Kinyozi in Naivasha, where you can eat perfectly grilled goat or beef.

 

Best things to do in Naivasha

There are a LOT of things to do in Naivasha, but for you, we have made a selection of the TOP things to do in Naivasha:

 

👉 DID YOU KNOW: The name “Naivasha” comes from the Maasai word Nai’posha, meaning “rough waters,” due to sudden storms that cause big waves.

 

Best things to do in Naivasha Kenya summary:

• 🚤 Boat ride on Lake Naivasha

• 🚴 Hell’s Gate National Park

• ♨️ Olkaria Geothermal Spa

• 🌋 Mount Longonot hike

• 🍷 Morendat Farm wine tasting (Leleshwa Winery)

• 🏕️ Carnelley’s camp and restaurant

• 🐎 Sanctuary Farm horseback safari

• 🌃 Naivasha town nightlife

• 🐟 Karagita Beach fresh fish experience

• 🫖 Elsamere Conservation Centre

• 🌿 Crater Lake game sanctuary

• 🦒 Kigio Conservancy

• 🌲 Eburu forest hike (Ol Doinyo Eburru)

• 🦩 Lake Oloiden

• 🦉 Naivasha Raptor Centre

• 🗿 Kariandusi prehistoric site

 

 

Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha 

A boat ride on Lake Naivasha is one of the THINGS YOU MUST DO ON THE LAKE.

 

At Sanctuary Farm, you can hire a SMALL MOTORBOAT (always with a guide).

 

For 1 hour, they will take you around sightseeing spots (like Crescent Island, spots where hippo’s convene, ‘white trees’ where hundreds of birds are present, etc.)

 

👉 DID YOU KNOW: Naivasha is famous for its huge hippo population. You will see a dozen hippo eyes and ears poking above the surface, followed by a snort as they exhale.

 

Beyond hippos, a Lake Naivasha safari by boat treats you to MANY BIRDS:

• Elegant pink PELICANS
• CORMORANTS drying their wings on half-submerged tree trunks,
• KINGIFSHERS darting like turquoise arrows
• The rare AFRICAN JACANA (nicknamed the “Jesus bird” for how it appears to walk on water lilies).

 

Expect to pay $31 per boat (€27) for a shared boat ride around Lake Naivasha in Kenya. We recommend renting a boat at Sanctuary Farm.

Crescent Island game sanctuary

 

Before we go to the next TOP THING TO DO IN NAIVASHA, you need to understand why Crescent Island on Lake Naivasha is so special.

 

Crescent Island was shaped by Rift Valley TECTONIC PLATES and volcanic activity, and it became an island as the lake’s waterline rose and fell over time.

 

In recent decades, especially since the mid-1980s, higher lake levels have left it partly submerged, so how much land is visible can change by season and year.

👉 DID YOU KNOW: Crescent Island in Kenya is now FULLY SEPARATED from the mainland, and while it was once a peninsula connected by dry land, rising water levels have removed that connection and turned it into a true island surrounded entirely by Lake Naivasha.

 

This means that animals like the five giraffes are ‘STUCK’ on the island (crazy, right?).

Even so, Crescent Island on Lake Naivasha is walkable to spot wildlife up close, including giraffes (with a newborn baby), zebras, wildebeest, waterbucks, and other antelope, with hippos in the surrounding water and plenty of birdlife around the lake.

 

👉 INSIDER TIP: Go in the early morning if you can. The lake is usually glass-smooth at dawn, and bird activity is at its peak. Plus, you’ll avoid the midday wind that can churn up waves.

 

👉 OUR RECOMMENDATION: Bring a light jacket (it can be chilly over the water) and don’t forget sunscreen, the heavy equatorial sun reflects off the lake.

Hell’s Gate National Park

 

Why visit Hell’s Gate National Park?

 

We find it an absolutely amazing park, but also National Geographic calls Hell’s Gate National Park: ‘one of the few places in Kenya where you can literally “walk on the wild side” among giraffes, waterbuck, and zebras without predators around’.

 

Hell’s Gate is famous for its cliffs and canyons.

 

👉 DID YOU KNOW: The animators of The Lion King used Hell’s Gate in Naivasha as inspiration for the film’s scenery (you can even spot a real-life “Pride Rock” here).

 

We recommend RENTING A BIKE at the gate (around $10) and pedaling on dirt roads past zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and gazelles. The bike ride is around 1 hour (7km or 4 miles) long.

 

Without any big predators in the park, it’s safe to bike or hike alongside the animals, a unique safari experience!

Don’t miss an amazing hike into OL NJOROWA GORGE (Hell’s Gate Gorge), where a local Maasai guide will lead you through a maze of red-rock canyons, hot springs, and waterfalls.

 

It’s a bit of a scramble; you’ll clamber over boulders and squeeze through steamy clefts. Along the way, you’ll see FISCHER’S TOWER, a 25-meter volcanic pillar (local legend says it’s a Maasai girl turned to stone!).

 

👉 INSIDER TIP: The Ol Njorowa Gorge has three lengths; SHORT, MIDDLE, and LONG. For short and middle, there are emergency stairs in case of a flash flood. The long part does not, hence the reason why it’s become forbidden to hike there. However, the guides will still take you there if you give them some extra cash (it’s the most beautiful part of the hike).

 

FISCHER’S TOWER is a popular spot where you can ROCK CLIMB with a guide (gear and guides can be arranged at the gate or via local tour companies)

 

👉 BE AWARE: The hike must be paid for separately from the national park entrance and is done with a guide. Prices are set very high, so you must negotiate. We paid around 20 USD for the medium hike.

 

Kenya national park entry fees for Hell’s Gate National Park:

Category	Entry fee	Notes
Adult (Non-Resident)	USD 50 (EUR 43)	One of the most affordable Kenya Wildlife Service national parks, known for walking and cycling safaris.
Child (3–17 years)	USD 25 (EUR 21)	Flat rate year-round.
Child (0–2 years)	FREE	No entry fee.

*UPDATE PRICES: The prices for national parks displayed in this post have been updated according to the latest Kenyan legislation of September 2025. On average, Kenya National Park entry fees are 30% – 100% (!) more expensive. More information in our dedicated Kenya entry fees post!

 

Take a dip in the Olkaria Geothermal Spa

After biking to the Ol Njorowa Gorge and doing the hike, you can enjoy the naturally heated waters at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa.

 

Tucked inside Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha, this massive outdoor spa is a TRUE HIDDEN GEM.

 

You can expect a series of swimming pool-like lagoons fed by mineral-rich hot springs tapped from deep underground by the geothermal plant.

 

THE RESULT: Warm turquoise pools in a stunning setting of volcanic cliffs and steam rising from a vent, it truly feels like a fantasy movie scene!

The main pool is HUGE (over 4,000 m²) with TEMPERATURES around 35 – 40°C (95–104°F).

 

Ease in slowly and let the warm, slightly sulfuric water relax every muscle.

 

Unlike many hot springs, we found Olkaria to be clean and well-managed by KenGen (the power company).

 

Changing rooms, showers, and a snack bar are on-site, making it easy to spend a few hours here.

 

The spa is open daily. More practical information on the website of KenGen.

 

The ENTRY FEE is about $20 for non-residents.

 

👉 FUN FACT: Olkaria in Hell’s Gate is the FIRST and LARGEST geothermal spa in Africa.

 

Hike to the top of Mount Longonot

 

Overview of hiking Mount Longonot

Mt longonot hike distance	The Mt Longonot Kenya hike covers 6.2 km (3.8 miles) round trip, or 13.5 km (8.4 miles) if you hike the full crater rim.
Duration	Expect 4 to 6 hours if you also hike around the rim.
Difficulty	Moderate to advanced.
Location	Mount Longonot National Park, about 90 km (56 miles) from Nairobi.
Mt longonot entrance fee	Citizens/Residents: 250 KSH (€1.60/$1.70 USD), Non-Residents: Adults $26 USD, Children $15 USD.
Opening times	Daily from 6 AM to 6 PM.

 

If you’re up for a challenge, a hike up Mount Longonot is an amazing adventure.

 

Mount Longonot is a dormant STRATOVOLCANO just south-east of the lake, visible as a mountain on the horizon.

 

The trail starts at Longonot National Park’s gate and immediately heads uphill through grassy savanna dotted with zebras and giraffes.

You should expect a STEEP CLIMB (about 3.1 km / 1.6 miles to the rim) and will get your heart pumping, but after 1.5 – 2 hours, you’ll reach the crater rim at 2,776 m (9,108 ft).

 

From here, the VIEWS ARE AMAZING: a 360° panorama of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha in the distance, and a giant crater floor below you covered in dense forest.

 

If you have energy, hike around the crater rim (7.2 km / 4.5 miles loop). Hiking around the rim takes an additional 2 – 3 hours, but you’ll hit the summit (the highest point is Oldonyo Longonot at 2,779 m).

 

The whole hike (up and down, plus the rim loop) takes around 4 to 6 hours.

 

You can take a look at our REVIEW POST of our Mount Longonot climb!

 

Go wine tasting at Morendat Farm (Leleshwa Winery)

Yes, Kenya makes wine, and Naivasha is its Napa Valley (the best location for wine in Kenya)!

 

Morendat Farm, on the northwest side of Lake Naivasha, is home to Leleshwa Winery, one of Kenya’s BEST WINE PRODUCERS.

 

Set amidst vineyards (with Mount Longonot in the backdrop), this farm offers WINE TASTING TOURS that are different than all the other Lake Naivasha activities.

 

On a wine tour, you’ll stroll through rows of grapevines while guides explain how varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Shiraz thrive in the equatorial sun at 1,900m altitude.

 

You’ll visit the boutique winery to see how grapes transform into wine, and of course, sample the goods: from white wines to reds.

 

👉 DID YOU KNOW: Leleshwa’s wines have even won INTERNATIONAL AWARDS (like the Double Gold (Grand d’Or) at the 2017 Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards for their Sauvignon Blanc).

 

The experience typically costs around $100 per person and often requires advance booking.

 

Camp and dine at Carnelley’s Camp

Laura’s FAVORITE RESTAURANT in Naivasha region is by FAR CARNELLEY’S!

 

You can expect a laid-back and social vibe where you can chill on sofas under a giant fig tree, enjoy a view of the lake where hippos grunt nearby come nightfall.

 

Carnelley’s menu has everything from English breakfasts to their FAMOUS WOOD-FIRED PIZZAS. And if we can make a personal suggestion, you should try the FETA SAMOSAS as your appetizer!

 

They are the BEST IN THE WORLD!

 

In the evening, the place comes alive with soft music, bonfires, and sometimes even live acoustic music. You can dine under the stars with lanterns and fairy lights, setting the mood.

 

Many people also camp there! Carnelley’s offers tent sites and cozy bandas (cabins).

 

Take a horseback safari at The Sanctuary Farm

Why drive when you can ride horseback among wild animals?

 

At The Sanctuary Farm (on the southern side of the lake), where we stayed for 3 nights, you can do exactly that.

 

This private estate and conservancy offers GUIDED HORSEBACK SAFARIS where you trot across the plains getting incredibly close to giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and antelope.

 

The Sanctuary Farm stables provide HELMETS, and a GUIDE will accompany you. You can also visit their stables.

 

A ride lasts 1 – 2 hours and costs 40 USD (34 EURO) for one hour.

 

On top of the horseback safari in Naivasha, Sanctuary Farm also offers:

• Night game drives to spot wildlife after dark.
• Photography tour with a professional guide.
• Sunset happy hour on a hilltop overlooking Lake Naivasha.
• Dairy experience, including milking a cow and interacting on the farm.
• Bikes for hire to cycle through the 450-acre wildlife sanctuary.
• Guided nature walks to explore wildlife on foot with a guide.
• Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha for hippo viewing, birdlife, and lakeshore wildlife.
• Private Massage in the comfort of your accommodation.

 

Visiting Sanctuary Farm is one of the most fun things to do in Naivasha in Kenya! We can highly recommend it!

 

Explore Naivasha town’s nightlife

By day, Naivasha is all about nature, but by night, the area comes alive with a fun nightlife scene.

 

In Naivasha town itself (and along Moi South Lake Road), you’ll find local bars, clubs, and lounges where you can unwind with a Tusker beer or dance to East African hits.

 

One popular spot is Party Island Lounge, a nightclub near the lake that attracts weekend crowds with DJs and theme parties.

 

In town, venues like La Belle Inn’s pub offer a more laid-back vibe.

 

You can expect a cold drink on a verandah of a vintage hotel (La Belle Inn dates back to the 1920s!).

 

Eat fresh fish at Karagita Beach

Join the locals for a taste of Naivasha at Karagita Beach, the MAIN FISH LANDING SPOT on the lake’s eastern shore.

 

This is where fishermen bring in the day’s catch. It’s mostly TILAPIA and BLACK BASS, and it’s the best spot in Naivasha in Kenya, to enjoy fresh-from-the-lake fish.

You can expect to see wooden boats by the dock, fishermen mending nets, and fish traders haggling.

 

You can pick a fish and have it cooked on the spot at one of the SHACK RESTAURANTS by the beach.

 

In our experience, they’ll DEEP-FRY the tilapia whole until the skin is crispy. Served with a squeeze of lemon, some kachumbari (tomato-onion salad), and ugali (maize polenta), it’s a simple meal, but we like it!

 

Eat it with your fingers for the full experience!

 

Visit the Elsamere Conservation Center

The Elsamere Conservation Centre is one of Kenya’s most famous conservation centres.

 

This house on the lake’s edge was the home of Joy and George Adamson.

 

If you don’t know who they are, Joy Adamson is the author of BORN FREE, the iconic story of Elsa the lioness.

 

Today, Elsamere is a conservation center and MUSEUM where you can tour the Adamsons’ old home.

 

The small museum shows Joy’s PAINTINGS (she was a talented artist), personal stuff, and information about their work reintroducing Elsa and other big cats to the wild.

 

One of the most fun things to do when visiting Elsamere is their AFTERNOON HIGH TEA.

 

Every day at 4:00 PM, you can enjoy tea, coffee, and some cakes and biscuits.

 

Elsamere charges a SMALL FEE (Ksh 1,500/$15), which includes the afternoon tea and museum.

 

It’s one of the best places to visit in Naivasha Kenya!

 

Visit Crater Lake Game Sanctuary

Crater Lake is one of the scenic places to visit in Naivasha, sitting inside an EXTINCT VOLCANIC CRATER just a short drive from Lake Naivasha.

 

The lake itself is deep green in color and surrounded by steep forested crater walls.

 

This is also a PRIVATE GAME SANCTUARY, where you can walk or drive among giraffes, zebras, eland, and waterbuck without fences, while colobus monkeys and vervet monkeys move through the trees above you.

 

You can explore the crater on a GUIDED NATURE WALK, drive the rim for panoramic views, or stop at the viewpoint overlooking the lake, which is one of the best photo spots in the area.

 

There’s a small café near the VIEWPOINT where you can have a drink or lunch while looking down into the crater.

 

Game drive or nature walk in Kigio Conservancy

Kigio Conservancy is a small PRIVATE RESERVE between Naivasha and Nakuru (about a 30-minute drive from Naivasha town) that’s worth a visit if you have time.

 

This 3,500-acre community-owned conservancy protects a chunk of acacia woodland and grassland along the Malewa River, and it’s known for its population of the endangered ROTHSCHILD’S GIRAFFE.

 

In fact, over 30 giraffes (!) were translocated here for BREEDING AND SAFETY.

 

Kigio offers guided nature walks, day and night game drives, and even biking safaris.

 

On a game drive or walk, you’ll see ANTELOPES (impala, gazelle, eland), BUFFALO, ZEBRA, and birdlife (over 200 species).

 

No lions or elephants here, but there are leopards (very shy) and hyenas, plus smaller creatures like porcupines and spring hares.

 

A highlight is a NIGHT GAME DRIVE, with spotlights, you might see the aardvark, caracal, or spring hare bounding like mini kangaroos.

 

One special activity at Kigio is visiting the WATERHOLE: you sit quietly and watch animals come to drink, which can be magical at dusk.

 

Because it’s off the main tourist trail, you’ll likely have the conservancy to yourself aside from guests of their eco-lodge.

 

The CONSERVANCY FEES support the local community and conservation projects, so you’re contributing to a good cause, too.

 

Kigio is one of the best places to visit in Naivasha in Kenya!

 

 

Hike the Ol Doinyo Eburru (Eburu Forest)

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Naivasha in Kenya, we recommend hiking in the Ol Doinyo Eburru hills (called the Eburu Forest).

 

This highland forest, on a volcanic massif north of Lake Naivasha, has cool air, lush greenery, and even a chance to see some wildlife.

 

The Eburru forest is famous for its STEAM VENTS AND GEYSERS (part of the same geothermal system as Olkaria).

 

There are various trails, but one popular route is to hike to HOBLEY’S VOLCANO (an extinct crater on Eburru).

 

Along the way, you’ll spot COLOBUS MONKEYS, buffalo, or even signs of the rare Mountain Bongo (a critically endangered antelope that a few dozen still survive in Eburu).

 

At the summit, you get panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and the Aberdare Range in the distance, truly one of the best places to visit in Naivasha in Kenya!

 

We recommend hiking Eburru with a community guide or ranger as the trails aren’t always marked, and a guide can point out wildlife and ensure your safety (we nearly stepped on a dangerous snake once and were chased away by angry monkeys).

 

Explore Lake Oloiden (hidden flamingo lake)

Just next to Lake Naivasha lies Lake Oloiden, a small soda lake that’s one of Naivasha’s HIDDEN GEMS.

 

Separated by a narrow strip of land from the main lake, Lake Oloiden often has a slightly alkaline water chemistry, which, at times, attracts flocks of FLAMINGOS (drawn by the algae).

 

Some years, the lake appears pink with THOUSANDS OF FLAMINGOS feeding! Even when flamingo numbers are low, Lake Oloiden is a nice spot to visit.

You can drive to the shores of Lake Oloiden (accessible via the Kongoni village side) and enjoy a PICNIC OR SUNDOWNER with beautiful views.

 

There’s a campsite and a few lodges on Oloiden’s banks that can arrange BOAT RIDES as well.

 

On a boat, you’ll see HIPPOS and loads of birds like pelicans, cormorants, kingfishers, and fish eagles swooping for catches.

 

With luck, you might even glimpse a GIANT PYTHON sunning on the shore (Oloiden is known to have a few large resident pythons)!

 

Because it’s smaller, Lake Oloiden often feels like your OWN PRIVATE LAKE.

 

The crater-like setting encircled by hills makes it very SCENIC, especially at sunrise or sunset when the water turns mirror-like.

 

Don’t forget your binoculars!

 

Visit the Naivasha Raptor Centre

Tucked away in a quiet corner near the lake is a place that’s a hoot for animal lovers, the Naivasha Raptor Centre.

 

This is a RESCUE, REHABILITATION, and EDUCATION CENTER dedicated to owls and other birds of prey.

 

Run by famous conservationist Sarah Higgins, the Naivasha Raptor Centre cares for injured or orphaned owls, eagles, hawks, and vultures.

 

At the center, you’ll meet resident birds like FULSTOP, a barn owl who was the Centre’s first rescue, and other species such as Verreaux’s eagle-owls, pearl-spotted owlets, or even HAWK-EAGLES, depending on who’s in rehab at the time.

 

The birds are housed in spacious AVIARIES, and if you’re lucky, you might see an owl being hand-fed or an eagle doing flight exercise as part of its rehabilitation.

 

Visits are by appointment (they usually welcome guests on weekends or as arranged), and a donation or fee is expected to support the work.

 

This isn’t a Naivasha tourist site; it’s a working sanctuary, so you should not expect a nice display.

 

Discover the Kariandusi Pre-Historic site

It’s maybe not the best thing to do in Naivasha, but if you have time to kill, it’s worth a stop.

 

Turn back the clock a million years at Kariandusi, an early man archaeological site located about 20 km north of Naivasha (near Gilgil).

 

Kariandusi is one of the sites where Louis Leakey excavated in the 1920s, uncovering ancient STONE AGE TOOLS.

 

Today, there’s a small museum and open excavation pits that shed light on our prehistoric ancestors.

 

Walking down the path to the site, you’ll see pits where thousands of hand axes and cleavers (from the Acheulean period) were found.

 

The area around Kariandusi is geologically interesting too: it’s next to a massive diatomite mine (the white chalky rock once used to make DYNAMITE!).

 

You’ll notice the white cliffs where diatomite has been extracted.

 

The whole visit doesn’t take long, maybe 30 – 45 minutes, but it’s an okay stop if you have time left.

 

Travel Itineraries for Naivasha

To help plan your trip, we prepared two itineraries for spending 1 day or 3 days in the Lake Naivasha area.

 

1 Day in Naivasha Itinerary

Morning (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Start early and head to Hell’s Gate National Park when it opens (6:30 AM).

 

Rent a bike at the gate and spend the morning cycling through Hell’s Gate.

 

Enjoy the cool morning air as you pedal past giraffes and zebras, and take in the awe-inspiring cliffs.

 

Around 10 AM, arrive at the Ol Njorowa Gorge trailhead.

 

Ditch the bike and do a guided gorge hike (about 1 hour) to see hidden hot springs and rock formations up close.

 

By 11:30, wrap up and exit the park.

 

Afternoon (12:30 PM – 5:00 PM)

Have lunch at Camp Carnelley’s or Fisherman’s Camp, where you can relax with good food and a lakeside view.

 

After lunch (around 2:00 PM), go for a boat ride on Lake Naivasha at Sanctuary Farm.

 

A one-hour boat safari will take you among pods of hippos (at a safe distance!) and let you see fish eagles swoop for fish.

The boat can drop you at Crescent Island (optional), where you can take a guided walking safari.

 

If you skip Crescent Island, the boat will return you to the main dock by around 3:30 PM.

 

Next, consider a quick visit to Elsamere Conservation Center (closes at 5 PM) for afternoon tea and a look into Joy Adamson’s life, it’s on the way back toward town and offers a relaxing close to the afternoon.

 

Evening (5:30 PM onwards)

As the sun sets, make your way to Ranch House Bistro for or back to Carnelley’s for dinner.

 

Ranch House Bistro for offers a beautiful sunset view over Lake Oloiden, which is perfect for your final Naivasha meal.

 

Try the local Tilapia or their famous BBQ ribs.

 

After dinner, if you’re not driving back to Nairobi immediately, enjoy a bit of Naivasha’s nightlife: perhaps a drink at Lazy Bones Bar (Carnelley’s) or a fun dance at Party Island Lounge if it’s a weekend.

 

By 8 or 9 PM, you’ll likely be ready to wind down and drive back to Nairobi.

 

3 Days in Naivasha Itinerary

Day 1: Adventure & relaxation

Arrive in Naivasha by mid-morning.

 

Kick off with the classic Hell’s Gate tour, where you can rent bikes and explore the park’s wildlife and Ol Njorowa Gorge trail. Plan around 3 to 4 hours for biking and hiking.

 

Exit around 1 PM and enjoy lunch at Fisherman’s Camp (their curry or burgers are excellent).

 

In the afternoon, shift gears to relaxation: drive to the Olkaria Geothermal Spa and spend a lazy afternoon soaking in the hot springs.

 

As evening approaches, head to your lodge or camp to freshen up.

 

Have dinner at Carnelley’s.

 

Day 2: Hiking & culture

Wake up early for a hearty breakfast, then leave by 7:00 AM for Mount Longonot National Park.

 

Begin the Longonot hike by 8 AM; reach the crater rim by 10 AM, and if feeling energetic, circle the rim and summit by 12 PM.

 

Descend and be back at the base around 1:30 PM.

 

After that workout, treat yourself to lunch. Perhaps drive into Naivasha town for some local fare at La Belle Inn, where you can try their fried fish or goat stew.

 

In the afternoon (around 3–4 PM), delve into a bit of culture and history: visit the Elsamere Centre for tea time.

 

Wander the museum and gardens, relaxing after the hike.

 

If you still have energy and interest, stop by the Naivasha Raptor Centre before sunset, it’s on the way back, and you could arrange a 5 PM visit to meet the owls and raptors in rehab.

 

By the evening, have dinner at Ranch House Bistro for on the south lakeside (you deserve a delicious meal after conquering a volcano!).

 

Day 3: Wildlife

On your final day, focus on the lake itself.

 

Start with a morning boat safari at Sanctuary Farm around 7:30 to 8:00 AM when the lake is calm, and bird activity is high.

 

A local guide will point out pelicans, cormorants, kingfishers, and the African fish eagles.

 

Watch hippos return to water after nighttime grazing.

 

Around 9:30 AM, land on Crescent Island for a guided walking safari (1 to 2 hours) among tame wildlife.

 

By noon, head back to shore and grab lunch at Sanctuary Farm.

 

For the afternoon, you have a few choices based on your interest: nature lovers can drive to Kigio Conservancy for a guided game walk (or drive) to see giraffes and learn about local conservation.

 

History buffs could drive up to Kariandusi Prehistoric Site to see the archeological dig and museum.

 

Or, if you prefer to chill, spend the afternoon at your lodge; many Naivasha resorts have pools with views, or you can relax by the lake (some, like Enashipai or Sopa Lodge, offer spa services if you want a massage).

 

As the trip ends tonight, enjoy an early dinner, perhaps at Carnelley’s or Fisherman’s Camp, for that lakeside sunset one more time.

 

By 6:30 PM, leave Naivasha for Nairobi (or continue your Kenya 3-week itinerary to the next destination).

 

 

The travel items you’ll wish you had in Naivasha

One often-overlooked “cost” of traveling to Naivasha is what you WEAR AND PACK.

 

You don’t need to spend a fortune on SPECIALIZED GEAR, but depending on what you have already, you might need to budget for a few clothing items or accessories to be comfortable in KENYA’S CLIMATE.

 

Here’s a QUICK SUMMARY:

• 🧥 Mornings and evenings in Naivasha can get surprisingly chilly, bring a lightweight FLEECE (Link for men) (Link for women) so you can stay warm without overpacking.
• 🦟 Don’t let bugs ruin your Naivasha boat ride. Grab this OFF MOSQUITO SPRAY for long-lasting protection in the bush!
• 🚰 Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Kenya, so pack a Vapur Insulated WATER BOTTLE and avoid the cost (and waste) of buying plastic daily.
• 🔌 Kenya uses UK-style outlets. This UNIVERSAL ADAPTER will keep your gear charged without any surprises.
• 🔋 Long drives and power cuts happen this Belkin POWER BANK keeps your phone and camera ready for anything.
• 🦓 Want to actually see that leopard in the distance? These travel-friendly BINOCULARS make your game drives way more exciting.
• 🧴 The equator sun hits hard, bring a reef-safe SPF 50+ SUNSCREEN so you don’t spend your trip nursing a burn.
• 👟 For walking safaris or climbing Mt.Kenya, good WALKING SHOES (Link for men) (Link for women) are non-negotiable in Kenya. Trust your feet, you’ll be glad you did.
• 🎒 Safari days start early and last long. This Vaude BACKPACK is perfect for snacks, layers, and your camera gear.
• 🩹 The closest pharmacy might be hours away. A compact travel FIRST AID KIT is worth its weight in peace of mind.

 

Lake Naivasha FAQs