Things To Do
in Naivasha

Grilled meat (often goat or beef) served with kachumbari and ugali; available at local restaurants and barbecue joints around town.

Must-Try!

Cornmeal staple (ugali) served with sautéed collard greens (sukuma wiki) and stews — a filling everyday meal found in markets and diners.

Freshwater fish (often tilapia) prepared fried or grilled in lakeside restaurants and lodges when in season.

Popular street snacks: fried pastries and doughnuts sold at market stalls and by street vendors.

Local hub for fresh fruit, vegetables, roasted maize (mahindi choma), samosas and street snacks; great for tasting everyday Kenyan food and buying fresh produce.

Small stalls near the lake and lodges sell grilled fish, tea, mandazi and fresh juices — ideal after boat trips.

Swahili greetings matter—say 'Habari' or 'Jambo' and exchange pleasantries before launching into requests; a handshake is common among men.

Dress modestly in town and when visiting communities; show deference to elders and ask permission before photographing people, especially women and children.

Keep distance from wildlife, never feed animals, and follow guide instructions in conservancies and parks for safety and conservation.

Christian observance is common; avoid loud behavior during church services and public religious events.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: 10% in restaurants if service isn't included, small tips (~50–200 KES / $0.50–$2) for guides, drivers and porters; tip according to service and group size.

Kenyan shilling (KES) is the local currency. Cash is king in markets and smaller businesses, while major lodges and hotels accept cards. M-Pesa mobile money is ubiquitous for local payments. ATMs are available in Naivasha town but carry cash for remote areas.

Expect frequent heavy showers, muddy tracks in parks and fewer tourists; good for lush green landscapes and migratory birds but check road conditions and bring waterproof gear.

Intermittent rains bring renewed bird activity and fewer crowds; days can still be pleasant for hiking between showers.

Cooler nights, clear skies and excellent conditions for hiking and cycling; this is a popular time so book accommodations in advance.

Warmer daytime temperatures and pleasant evenings; good for boat trips and lakeside relaxation but expect more visitors around holidays.

A classic crater-rim hike with steep ascent and a rewarding loop around the caldera; allow 4–8 hours depending on pace and start early for cooler temperatures.

Several short-to-medium trails through dramatic gorges, geothermal features and cliffs suitable for hiking, cycling and rock-climbing.

Less-visited highland trails with forested sections and panoramic views; good for quieter hikes and birdwatching.

Guided walks and drives through conservancy land with opportunities to see plains wildlife and wetland birdlife in a managed conservation setting.

Vegetarian options are widely available in hotels and cafés (ugali, sukuma wiki, vegetable stews). Ask for no meat stock and specify preferences; markets offer fresh produce for self-catering.

Can be managed with local vegetables, fruits and chapati, but communicate needs clearly in restaurants and choose lodges with flexible kitchens.

Ugali is naturally gluten-free, but processed foods and some breads contain gluten. In hotels, request simple meals with rice, vegetables and grilled proteins.

Drink bottled or treated water; eat cooked hot foods or fruit you can peel. Street food is generally safe at busy, well-trafficked stalls.