Lake naivasha

Lake Naivasha

Welcome to Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater lake resting quietly in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.
This is a place where tranquility meets adventure, where the stillness of the water mirrors the sky, and where wildlife roams freely along the shoreline.

At sunrise, the lake glows gold.
Fishermen glide across the water in wooden boats.
Hippos rise from the depths with gentle ripples.
Birds fill the air with song.

Lake Naivasha is not just a destination
it is a peaceful escape, a sanctuary of nature, and a home where wildlife lives in harmony with people.

Climate

Lake Naivasha has a mild, pleasant climate year-round.

Temperatures: 10°C – 28°C
Evenings: Cool due to elevation (1,884 m)
Rainfall:

Long rains: March–May
Short rains: October–December

The fresh lake water supports rich vegetation: acacia forests, swampy edges, and open grassland perfect for wildlife.

Getting There

By Road:

1.5 – 2 hours from Nairobi via the Nakuru Highway.
Smooth, scenic drive with breathtaking Rift Valley viewpoints.

By Air:

Charter flights from Nairobi to Naivasha airstrips.
Helicopter flights available for high-end travelers.

Lake Naivasha is one of Kenya’s most accessible and versatile destinations.

Attractions

1. The Freshwater Lake

Unlike Lake Nakuru or Lake Bogoria, Naivasha is freshwater.
This supports large populations of:

Hippos
Fish
Birdlife
Aquatic plants

Boat rides at sunrise or sunset are magical the water glitters, birds skim the surface, and hippos grunt softly nearby.

2. Crescent Island Sanctuary

One of Naivasha’s signature attractions.
Here, wildlife walks freely, and you can walk among them.

You may encounter:

Giraffes
Zebras
Wildebeests
Impalas
Waterbucks

It feels like stepping into a peaceful Garden of Eden.

3. Hell’s Gate National Park (Nearby)

A dramatic landscape of cliffs, gorges, towers, and hot springs.
This is the park where Disney took inspiration for “The Lion King”.

Activities include:

Cycling alongside zebras and giraffes
Hiking the gorge
Rock climbing at Fischer’s Tower

4. Hippo Viewing

Lake Naivasha is known for its large hippo population, often seen grazing at night or floating in groups during the day.

5. Birdwatching

Over 350 bird species have been recorded.
Expect sightings of:

The African fish eagle’s call echoing over the lake is unforgettable.

6. Crater Lake Game Sanctuary

A quiet volcanic crater with wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning emerald-green waters.

Tourism Activities

• Boat Rides on the Lake

The best way to explore Naivasha close to hippos, birds, and nature’s calm.

• Walking Safaris on Crescent Island

Safe, peaceful, and perfect for photography.

• Cycling & Hiking at Hell’s Gate

Unique in Kenya cycling among wildlife with no predators around.

• Birdwatching Excursions

Ideal for both beginners and serious birders.

• Horseback Riding (Nearby Ranches)

Ride through open fields with wildlife grazing around you.

• Fishing Trips

Catch tilapia or black bass with local fishermen.

Accommodation Facilities

Luxury Lodges

Mid-Range

All offer peaceful stays with beautiful lake views, green surroundings, and warm Kenyan hospitality.

Visit Today

Lake Naivasha is a retreat for the soul , a place where water meets wilderness, where morning mist dances above the lake, and where every moment feels gentle, calming, and alive.

When you visit Naivasha, you experience more than scenery…
you experience peace, connection, and the quiet power of nature.