At a glance
- Best for
- Weekend breaks, families, walking and cycling safaris
- Getting there
- About 2 to 2.5 hours by road from Nairobi
- Time needed
- A day trip, or one to two nights
- Base yourself
- On the lake shore, mostly along the southern side of the lake
Getting there
Lake Naivasha is about 90 to 100 kilometres (55 to 60 miles) from Nairobi, usually a drive of 2 to 2.5 hours. The road leaves the city through Limuru and drops down the escarpment into the Rift Valley, with a viewpoint on the way down that is worth a stop for the view across to Mount Longonot. It is tarmac all the way. Until mid-2027, the highway is being widened between Rironi, near Limuru, and Mau Summit, so allow extra time and avoid Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons if you can.
A chauffeur-driven car from our sister company, Urban Escape Luxury Cars, makes the day easy, and self-drive hire is available if you'd rather drive. Their road trips from Nairobi guide covers the route in detail.
When to go
Naivasha is pleasant all year: warm days and cool evenings. The long rains usually fall around April and May and the short rains around November, when the countryside turns green and some tracks get muddy. Weekends and school holidays are busier, so book ahead then.
What to do
- A boat ride on the lake: see hippos, pelicans and the fish eagles that swoop for their catch. Go with a licensed boat operator who provides life jackets, and keep a respectful distance from hippos.
- Crescent Island: a walking safari among giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and antelope. With no big predators, it is ideal for children.
- Hell's Gate National Park: cycle or drive past towering cliffs and grazing zebras, then walk down into the gorge with a local guide. The gorge can flood suddenly after rain, so follow the guide's advice. Check current park fees with the Kenya Wildlife Service.
- Mount Longonot: a steep hike up a dormant volcano and around its crater rim, for fit walkers who start early.
- Lake Oloiden: a smaller lake nearby, sometimes visited by flamingos.
- Combine it with Lake Nakuru National Park, further along the highway, known for its rhinos.
Where to base yourself
Most stays are on the lake shore, much of it along the southern side of the lake. You can choose a lakeside lodge with lawns running to the water, a family cottage, or a simple campsite. Ask us for our current, personally vetted picks.
With children
Naivasha might be the best family weekend from Nairobi. Children can walk among giraffes on Crescent Island, see hippos from a boat and ride bikes in Hell's Gate. Choose a stay with space to run around, and bring warm layers for the evenings.
Hippos after dark
Hippos leave the water at night to graze, often on lodge lawns. They are dangerous if surprised. After dark, stay on the paths, never walk to the water's edge, and let staff walk you to your room if they offer.
Game drives
If you'd like to game-drive in a vehicle of your own around the lake or at Lake Nakuru, only the Land Cruiser Safari from Urban Escape Luxury Cars may be used on game drives. With any other car, book a game drive with a local operator or your lodge.
Ready to plan?
Tell us whether it is a day trip or a weekend, and who is coming, and we'll arrange the rest. Plan your trip with us, or read our guide to getting around Kenya.
Transport by our sister company, Urban Escape Luxury Cars.
Questions about Lake Naivasha
How far is Lake Naivasha from Nairobi?
About 90 to 100 kilometres, usually a drive of 2 to 2.5 hours. Allow extra time until mid-2027 while the highway beyond Limuru is being widened.
Can I do Lake Naivasha as a day trip?
Yes. Leave early, take a boat ride and visit Crescent Island or Hell's Gate, and head back before dark. A night or two is more relaxed, especially with children.
Is Lake Naivasha good for children?
Yes. Walking among giraffes on Crescent Island, hippo-spotting by boat and cycling in Hell's Gate are all family favourites. Stay on the paths after dark because hippos graze at night.
Facts checked . Fees, schedules and entry rules change, so always confirm the latest with the official source.
