Naivasha Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know!

There are so many places to visit in Naivasha for a weekend trip, making it my favourite weekend getaway from Nairobi. Since moving to Kenya, we’ve travelled there at least once a year. Some years, we even make multiple trips to the town and never run out of things to do or grow tired of revisiting the places we love.

I strongly believe this destination is a must-add to your Kenyan itinerary and is well worth visiting for more than just a day trip from Nairobi.

Therefore, in this guide, I will tell you everything you need to know; the best places to visit in Naivasha, the best time to go there, and some suggestions for where to stay.

What Is Lake Naivasha Famous For?

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake renowned for its large population of hippos and diverse birdlife. It is surrounded by acacia forests home to monkeys, giraffes, and zebras. The area is also surrounded by flower farms, which play a significant role in Kenya’s export economy.

How To Get to Naivasha

Naivasha is an easy 90-minute drive from Nairobi. The road is well-maintained and marked, but it can be a bit tricky in some areas, particularly around the Great Rift Valley vantage points.

If you’re comfortable driving in Kenya, this road trip would make a perfect self-drive adventure. Otherwise, booking a private driver may be a better option. If you’re on a tighter budget, catching a matatu from Nairobi is also an option. The journey typically costs between 300 and 600 KES by matatu or around 6,000 – 10,000 KES by private car.

Lastly, you can also book a tour which includes transport from Nairobi.

Where To Stay in Naivasha

When selecting accommodation in Naivasha, I recommend avoiding stays in the town itself or near the main road. Instead, opt for a place with direct access to the lake whenever possible—it offers a much more serene and immersive experience.

Luckily, there are several options to choose from, and after multiple visits, I’ve discovered accommodations to suit every budget and style:

• Budget-Friendly: Camp Carnelly’s offers excellent lakeside camping and budget-friendly rooms. Similarly, Fisherman’s Camp, located right next door, is a great alternative.
• Mid-Range: Sopa Lodge provides comfortable rooms with stunning lake views and frequent wildlife sightings right from your balcony.
• Luxury: Chui Lodge in the Oserian Wildlife Sanctuary is my splurge recommendation. I haven’t been there yet, but a girl can hope and dream, right?

In addition, if you’re travelling in a group, you may want to check out Airbnb and Crescent Island accommodation options.

5 Best Places to Visit in Naivasha and Things to Do!

Now, let’s get into the list of things to do and the best places to visit in Naivasha. This is not an exhaustive list but it should give you an idea of how to spend a weekend or longer in the town.

Camp by Lake Naivasha or Lake Oloiden

Lake Naivasha is the star attraction of Naivasha town. You simply can’t visit without planning some sort of activity around the lake. It is a prime spot for birdwatching and a hippo habitat. Not to be outshone, Lake Oloiden, though smaller, offers a more intimate setting with incredible flamingo sightings at certain times of the year.

We’ve camped multiple times along Lake Naivasha—mostly at Camp Carnelley’s—and each experience has been unique.

Waking up to the sounds of hippos grunting and fish eagles calling is quite the experience—something you wouldn’t find in the city, for sure!

Cycle in Hell’s Gate National Park

If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind safari experience in Kenya, Hell’s Gate National Park could be the perfect destination for you. Here, you can trade the traditional game drive for a walking safari or, better yet, rent a bicycle and pedal through the park’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have incredible opportunities to spot towers of giraffes and herds of zebras up close, making it an adventure like no other.

I recommend planning your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat, which can be quite uncomfortable. Additionally, these times help you steer clear of the dust kicked up by passing cars, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

In addition, there is a geothermal spa located within the park. This place is high up on my to-visit list during my return trip to Naivasha. I imagine soaking up in the warm waters during the colder seasons. I think the combination of a unique safari experience and the Olkaria Geothermal Spa makes Hell’s Gate National Park one of the best places to visit in Naivasha.

Take a Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha

Early morning or late afternoon boat rides offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities. We’ve had hippos surface just meters from our boat and watched African fish eagles dive for fish in the lake.

You can take a boat ride tour on its own or combine your excursion with a visit to Crescent Island.

Walk with Giraffes on Crescent Island

This is the closest you’ll ever get to giraffes in the wild. The island’s gentle terrain makes it perfect for families, and the absence of predators means you can walk at your own pace. Time your visit for early morning or late afternoon when the weather is favourable and the animals are most active.

If you have a bit more time and budget to spare in Naivasha, I highly recommend staying overnight at one of the accommodations available on the island. This allows you to experience the island at your own pace, enjoying its serene beauty during optimal weather conditions—long before the day-trippers arrive and long after they’ve left.

Go Hiking in Mount Longonot or Around Crater Lake

Mount Longonot is a challenging but rewarding climb – the views of the Rift Valley from the crater rim are spectacular. I recommend starting the hike early if you plan to go around the crater.

A leisurely hike to the top, around the crater, and back down can take up to five hours. Starting early is highly recommended to avoid the intense midday heat and to make the most of the cooler morning temperatures. Crater Lake offers an easier alternative with its 3km nature trail and abundant wildlife.

Where to Eat in Naivasha

Our go-to spot whenever we visit Naivasha is Camp Carnelly’s Lazybones Restaurant. Since we often stay at the camp, it’s naturally convenient—but beyond that, the restaurant serves delicious meals, and I really enjoy the relaxed and inviting ambience.

Some other popular restaurants in the area include:

• Ranch House Bistro: Restaurant by the lake, perfect for Sunday lunch
• Fisherman’s Camp: Fresh fish and cold beers with sunset views
• The Club House Naivasha: Restaurant at Sanctuary Farm – which is also a great place to visit in Naivasha

Best Time to Visit Naivasha

I’ve visited during every season, and each has its charm. January and February offer warm, dry weather perfect for hiking and cycling. The long rains (March-May) transform the landscape into a lush paradise but can make some activities, such as camping, challenging. June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, while the short rains in November create spectacular sunsets. December is festive but busy, so book accommodations well in advance.

Remember to pack layers regardless of when you visit – mornings and evenings can be surprisingly cool, even during the warm season.

The Sum Up…

That’s all for this guide! As you can see, Naivasha is truly a special place. At first glance, it might not seem like much when you drive in—you might even feel like you’re having an “Instagram vs. reality” moment. However, beneath the seemingly chaotic surface lies a charming destination, offering incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable nature experiences.

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