Lake Naivasha National Park: An Overview
Location
Lake Naivasha lies northwest of Nairobi, just outside the town of the same name. Located in Nakuru County, the park is part of Kenya’s Rift Valley, a region known for picturesque lakes and landscape.
Size
Lake Naivasha is 54 square miles, surrounded by the Ramsar Wetland.
History
In the 1940s, Lake Naivasha was frequented by seaplanes transporting mail from the United Kingdom to South Africa. In the 1960s it was home to Born Free author Joy Adamson and the region has been awarded for its fine conservation efforts.
Entrance Fees & Permits
There are no entrance fees applicable for entry into Lake Naivasha.
Hours of Operation
Visitors can gain access to Lake Naivasha between 7am and 6pm daily.
By Road
Travelling 60 miles north from Nairobi, the journey to Lake Naivasha takes approximately two hours and twenty minutes along the A104 and Old Naivasha Road.
By Air
Departing each afternoon, the flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Lake Naivasha takes approximately 15 minutes.
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures throughout the year range between 50F and 80F. The winters are dry and cool, and summers warm and overcast due to summer rainfall, mostly falling during November and December.
Avoiding Crowds
As the dry winter season is one of the best times to visit Lake Naivasha, it is recommended to consider travelling in late May and June. If looking to travel later in the year, consider September and October when booking your visit. If wanting to view flamingos, November and May are great times for this, during the short rains and long rains respectively.
Value for Money
As there is no charge to enter Lake Naivasha and due to its proximity to Nairobi, Lake Naivasha definitely offers value for money when it comes to exploring one of Kenya’s scenic wildlife destinations.
Popular Wildlife Sightings in Lake Naivasha
Hippos are a common sight at Lake Naivasha with both lesser and greater species of flamingos a colourful sight, especially during the wetter months of May and November. Warthog, giraffe, and other antelopes can be seen in Lake Naivasha.
The Terrain
Located on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is notably one of the highest-located freshwater lakes in the region and is surrounded by swamps mostly comprising papyrus.
Game Drives
Safari experiences within Lake Naivasha comprise a game drive usually early in the morning or late afternoon, sightings of plains game, incredible bird life including flamingos and cheeky hippos. Boat rides are an incredible way to experience scenic Lake Naivasha and its inhabitants. For a chance to spot more wildlife, game drives can also be conducted in neighbouring Hells Gate National Park.
Guided Walking Safaris
Guests who wish to explore Lake Naivasha and surrounds can enjoy a guided bush walkon Crescent Island, which lies on the east of Lake Naivasha. Animals that can be seen here include wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, and impala. Walks on Crescent Island are possible, an incredible way to see smaller wildlife and a magnificent view of Lake Naivasha.
Hells Gate National Park
Picturesque and home to a myriad of wildlife wonders, Hells Gate is worth a visit when staying near or at Lake Naivasha. Discover the crags and crevices, the sheer mountains covered in green plant life and animals including baboons, antelope and over 100 species of birds.
Crescent Island
Explore Crescent Island and enjoy the opportunity to walk around the island, which is free of predators. Hippos and buffalo roam nearby, and views of the lake are uninterrupted. Olkaria Geothermal Spa
Enjoy the hot waters of Olkaria geothermal spa – a swimming pool which is located within the Hells Gate National Park. A simple spot for those looking to do something different while visiting Naivasha region.
The Farm Shop
Stop by this charming store to view local pottery, home goods and a few souvenirs, all produced by the community.