Lake Naivasha

 Nestled in the Great Rift Valley at an altitude of 1,884 meters, Lake Naivasha is a stunning freshwater lake spanning up to 139 km², its size fluctuating with seasonal rainfall. Surrounded by lush swamps, forests, and striking rock formations, the lake once served as a landing site for Imperial Airways between 1937 and 1950.

Today, it plays a vital role in the local economy, with flower and vegetable cultivation driving much of the region’s income. A favorite getaway for Nairobi residents, Lake Naivasha offers unforgettable experiences, from scenic boat safaris among hippos to guided walking safaris along its shores. Its proximity to Hell’s Gate National Park and Crescent Island makes it an excellent addition to any adventure in Kenya’s breathtaking Rift Valley.

Activities on and around Lake Naivasha

• Guided hikes
• Boat safaris on Lake Naivasha
• Trekking on Crescent Island
• Climbing in Hell’s Gate National Park
• Lake Oloiden – a volcanic crater lake- is home to the largest flower farms in Kenya. It is a great destination for tourists who want to travel off the beaten and beaten path
• Horse safaris.

Crescent Island

Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Naivasha and a memorable walking safari on Crescent Island. This stunning peninsula, surrounded by water, is accessible only by boat from the east or west. The shores are home to abundant birdlife, including pelicans, cormorants, and ospreys, whose haunting calls fill the air. Known as one of Kenya’s best-kept secrets, Crescent Island has more wildlife per hectare than any other park in Kenya. Visitors can get up close to wildebeests, waterbucks, hippos, jackals, zebras, and gazelles while spotting over 400 species of birds, such as ospreys and herons. Be sure to bring your binoculars for an exceptional wildlife experience!

Hells Gate

Another must-see destination is Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its striking landscapes shaped by volcanic activity and lava flows. The Park gets its name from the steep valley that cuts through the area, resembling a natural gateway. A walk at the base of this dramatic valley offers an unforgettable experience. The park’s expansive grasslands provide the perfect setting for a bike ride, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery and encounter various wildlife. For adventure enthusiasts, rock climbing is a thrilling option, with the rugged lava ridges offering a challenging skill test.

Climate

The climate in Naivasha is pleasant and relatively dry. The average rainfall is less than 30 mm in February and June / July. More than 60 mm rarely falls on average, but in April (rainy season) it can be about 110 mm. Temperatures are moderate due to the location in the highlands. Average daytime highs reach only about 19 °C in July/August and climb to little more than 24 °C in February/March. The average night temperatures vary only slightly. They range from about 16 °C in February / March to 14 °C in July / August.

How to get there

Lake Naivasha is a beautiful three-hour drive through the Rift Valley from Nairobi. By plane, it’s only a 20-minute flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.

The best time to visit Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is good to visit all year round.