Lake Naivasha

All About Lake Naivasha

Discover Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a destination within the Great Rift Valley of Kenya located in Nakuru county. It is situated at an elevation of 1,884m, making Lake Naivasha the highest lake within the Great Rift Valley with a surface area of 139km². Lake Naivasha dominates the landscape, and it is surrounded by a swamp which covers an area of around 64km². The lake is well known for its high population of hippos and flamingos with over 1,500 hippos in the area and home to 400 bird species. Its a freshwater lake providing opportunities for boat rides, scenic views and bird watching. Some of the birds include fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants, lesser and greater flamingos. Giraffes, zebras, impalas, and waterbucks can be sighted in the immediate vicinity of Lake Naivasha, around Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Crater Lake Game Sanctuary, and Hell’s Gate National Park.

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Lake Naivasha Park Entry Fee

Lake Naivasha Boat Rides

Typically range from USD $30 to $50 per person, depending on the duration.

Crescent Island Entry

Approximately USD $30 per person.

Hell’s Gate National Park Fees

Foreign Non-Residents: USD $20 per person.

Foreign Residents: USD $15 per person.

East African Citizens: KSH 300 per person.

Best Time to Visit Lake Naivasha

Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities like hiking and boat rides.

Wet Season (March to May, November to December): The area becomes lush and green, ideal for bird watching, although some activities may be limited due to rain.

Low Season

March to May, November

These are the rainy months, with heavy showers making some areas less accessible. However, the scenery is lush and vibrant, and birdwatching is exceptional, especially with migratory birds in the area. There are fewer visitors, and accommodation prices are lower, making it a peaceful time to visit.

High Season

June, October

This period has milder weather and less rain, making it ideal for activities such as boat rides, nature walks, and exploring the nearby attractions like Hell’s Gate National Park. Visitor numbers are moderate, and the experience remains relaxed.

Peak Season

July to September, December to February

The dry season is the most popular time to visit, with sunny weather and excellent conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. Many tourists include Lake Naivasha in their Kenyan safari itineraries, so the area can be busy, and accommodation rates are at their highest.

How to get to Lake Naivasha

By Road

Lake Naivasha is 98 kilometers from Nairobi making it about a 1.5-2 hour drive.

By Air

Private airstrips near Naivasha serve chartered flights from Nairobi.

Best Places to Stay in Lake Naivasha

Chui Lodge Naivasha

Above Lake Naivasha set in the heart of a private 18,000-acre wildlife sanctuary and nestled in an indigenous forest overlooking

Crater Lake Tented Camp Naivasha

Crater Lake Tented Camp Naivasha is the heart of what the Kenyan settlers called “Happy Valley”, that lush oasis where

Kiangazi House Lake Naivasha

Kiangazi House is a luxurious and charming country retreat nestled on a private wildlife estate overlooking the serene Lake Naivasha

Gallery of Lake Naivasha

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