Lake Naivasha is approximately a 2 ½ hour drive from Nairobi. Lake Naivasha is the highest freshwater lake within the Great Rift Valley at about 1884m elevation.
The seasonal shallow lake can be very rough during the rainy season. Papyrus and other forest species grow along the banks of the lake providing a home to a variety of birds and mammals.
Lake Naivasha is a birder’s paradise with over 400 species of birds. Flamingos congregate around the lake, creating a wash of vivid pink wash across the water’s surface. Other species include herons, flamingos, fish eagles, marabou storks, and pelicans. Plus all types of kingfishers as well as the Grey-backed fiscal.
There is a sizable population of hippos and it is home to a variety of wildlife.
Lake Naivasha Activities
Morning and afternoon game drives are rewarding for spotting the many species in the park. These include big cats such as leopards and lions. Other wildlife found are Colobus monkeys, giraffes, zebras, waterbuck, buffalos, and many more. Lake Naivasha can be a base to explore Hells Gate National Park, Lake Nakuru, and the below.
Boat safaris are one of the most popular activities in Lake Naivasha. Horse riding is also available.
Crater Lake Game Sanctuary:
Crater Lake Game Sanctuary offers a thrilling jade-colored lake formed by the process of volcanic activity. It sits in the center of the park. It is also the right place to explore large game animals such as giraffes, leopards, zebras, and many more.
The sanctuary has walking trails that follow the rim of the crater, and these routes offer breathtaking views.
Night game drives can be organized at Crater Lake. They are a great opportunity to see leopards, aardvarks, and caracals. Plus many other elusive species.
Crescent Island
This fascinating private island sanctuary is located in the Great Rift Valley and is very rewarding. Since the island is unfenced, animals are able to roam freely around. The island is accessed by boat or 4×4 along a narrow, marshy road. Buffaloes and other animals frequently utilize this passage, which deteriorates during the rainy season. Tourists can take beautiful nature walks with fantastic island views along this island.
Elsamere
Elsamere Museum, on the shores of Lake Naivasha, depicts the life of George and Joy Adamson. And their lifelong commitment to the wildlife of Kenya. George and Joy Adamson are legendary for their work in wildlife conservation in Kenya. Joy is famous for the story of raising an orphaned Lion and returning it to the wilds. The story of Elsa became a famous movie, Born Free. Their home, Elsamere, is now a conservation and field study center that caters to study groups and tourists alike. They were arguably the people who put conservation in the spotlight. And opened the eyes of the world to the issues.
Mount Longonot
The Longonot National Park is just 20 km from the Lake and an easy 45-minute drive. This is an extinct volcano with a height of 2776 meters above sea level. The name means ‘’Mountain of the Many summits’. It offers a unique large crater edge on top with no water. The trek up is not too strenuous. Depending on your hiking experience, will take between 4 to 5 hours to access the summit.
Loldia House (Lake Naivasha)
Loldia House is on the shores of Lake Naivasha. Perfectly located to enjoy many activities, landscapes and wildlife areas of the Great Rift Valley
