Best of Lake Naivasha

The sparkling blue waters of Lake Naivasha provide a vital freshwater habitat for wildlife in this high-elevation region north of Nairobi. Over 300 bird species have been spotted here, along with hippos, giraffes, impalas and zebras. As one of only two permanent bodies of water in the Great Rift Valley, the lake also plays a key role in human communities. Small flower farms and tiny traditional villages dot the shoreline. Lake Naivasha lies within easy reach of some other outstanding natural sights and national parks, with crater lakes, canyons and mountain summits all woven into the surrounding landscape.  

Boat trips on the lake create opportunities for up-close viewing of hippos in the water, while pelicans and African fish eagles wing past overhead. On Crescent Island, you’ll find one of the few places in the Rift Valley where you can walk among giraffes, zebras and wetbacks. About an hour’s drive southwest of Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park offers more top wildlife watching amid volcanic scenery. Further east, at Longonot National Park you can make the short but strenuous hike up Mount Longonot for panoramic views atop a dormant volcano with an elevation of 9108 feet (2776 m).