Naivasha

Written by Andreas Keller, Harry Mboya
10/08/2025
Giraffes walking across railway tracks in the vast African savanna under a clear blue sky.
Youngafrikanna ., Pexels

Naivasha, a serene escape nestled in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, offers a blend of tranquil lakeside beauty, diverse wildlife encounters, and active outdoor pursuits. It is a destination well-suited for visitors seeking a refreshing natural experience away from urban centers.

For those seeking social interaction, Naivasha Town Center provides a lively atmosphere with various budget-friendly accommodations and eateries. Along the lake, popular campsites like Camp Carnelley's and Fisherman's Camp are known for their social settings, particularly appealing to backpackers, although formal nightlife options are generally limited.

Top 5 Things to do in Naivasha

Visitors to Naivasha can immerse themselves in nature with tranquil lake safaris, engage in active wildlife encounters on foot or by bike, and enjoy rewarding hikes with panoramic views.

1. Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha

Embarking on a boat safari on Lake Naivasha offers a serene way to witness the lake's abundant wildlife. During these tranquil rides, one can observe hippos submerged in the water and spot a wide variety of bird species, including majestic fish eagles and vibrant kingfishers. The best times for viewing are typically early morning or late afternoon when the wildlife is most active. Combining this with a visit to Crescent Island enhances the experience.

Cost: A private boat can cost approximately $30-$50 per boat for one to two hours, accommodating up to 6-8 passengers. Alternatively, some operators offer per-person rates ranging from $25-$30 for an hour-long ride, based on a group of 5-6 people.

Transport: Boats are typically accessed from various jetties along the lake's shore, often at lodges or designated public access points. From Naivasha town, a taxi would be required to reach these departure points; costs vary depending on distance.

2. Walking Safari on Crescent Island

Crescent Island offers a unique opportunity for a walking safari in a predator-free sanctuary, allowing for close and personal encounters with plains game. Strolling through the open landscapes, one can walk alongside zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and various antelopes. Guided nature walks are often included with the entrance fee, providing insights into the island's ecology and history. It is a peaceful setting perfect for photography and birdwatching.

Cost: The entrance fee for non-resident adults is $33, while children (5-15 years) are charged $16, and students $22. The boat transfer to the island is a separate cost, ranging from approximately $20-$50 per boat, or around $20 per person if joining a shared transfer.

Transport: Crescent Island is only accessible by boat from the mainland of Lake Naivasha. Various operators facilitate these boat transfers from different points around the lake. A taxi from Naivasha town to the boat departure points would be necessary.

3. Cycling and Hiking in Hell's Gate National Park

Hell's Gate is a dramatic landscape of towering cliffs, water-gouged gorges, and volcanic formations, unique for allowing visitors to cycle or walk among its wildlife. It's an invigorating experience to pedal past herds of zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and various gazelles. The park also features the impressive Hell's Gate Gorge, which can be explored on foot, and offers opportunities for rock climbing at Fischer's Tower. Beginning the visit early helps to avoid midday heat and dust.

Cost: The park entrance fee for non-resident adults is $20, and $15 for children (3-17 years). Bike rentals are available from vendors outside the park gate, typically costing around KES 500-1000 (approximately $3.5-$7) per day. Guides for gorge walks or climbing are recommended and can be hired at the gate for KES 1720 for up to 4 hours or KES 3015 for over 4 hours.

Transport: Hell's Gate National Park is located about 20 km along Moi South Lake Road from Naivasha town. A motorbike (boda boda) from Naivasha Matatu Stage costs approximately KES 526 (about $3.5) for a 34-minute ride. A taxi from Naivasha town typically ranges from KES 1500-2000 (about $10-$14).

4. Hiking Mount Longonot

Hiking Mount Longonot, a dormant stratovolcano, is a challenging yet highly rewarding experience. The trail leads up to the crater rim, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and the surrounding landscape. One can also hike around the crater rim, which reveals a thick forest inside the crater. It is advisable to start the hike early in the morning to avoid the intense midday heat and make the most of cooler temperatures.

Cost: The park entrance fee for non-resident adults is $20, and $10 for children (3-17 years). A licensed guide is recommended for safety and interpretation and costs KES 2000 per group per day.

Transport: Mount Longonot National Park is approximately 25 minutes by road from Naivasha town. A private taxi from Naivasha town can be hired for around $30 for the afternoon, which often includes waiting time for the return journey.

5. Relax at Olkaria Geothermal Spa

After adventurous activities, the Olkaria Geothermal Spa offers a relaxing retreat. Located within Hell's Gate National Park, it features naturally heated mineral pools. The spa has cascading pools where the water cools to comfortable temperatures, including a large adult pool resembling a mini-lake and a separate baby pool with a playground. Soaking in these warm, mineral-rich waters provides a unique and rejuvenating experience amidst a scenic backdrop.

Cost: Access to the Olkaria Geothermal Spa requires a separate fee in addition to the Hell's Gate National Park entrance fee. General non-resident entrance fees for the spa are not explicitly detailed, but some sources indicate a range of $10-$20.

Transport: Since the spa is located inside Hell's Gate National Park, transport to Hell's Gate applies. From Naivasha town, a taxi costs around KES 1500-2000 (about $10-$14) or a motorbike (boda boda) about KES 526 (about $3.5).

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