Things To Do
in Naivasha
Naivasha is a beautiful town situated in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. It is known for its stunning freshwater lake, Lake Naivasha, which is home to a variety of bird species. The town is also famous for its flower farms, producing a wide range of flowers for export.
Naivasha is a popular tourist destination, offering activities such as boat safaris, nature walks, and visits to nearby wildlife reserves.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an exhilarating boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and a variety of bird species. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as the sun rises and the lake comes to life.
Visit Crescent Island, where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in their natural habitat. Take picturesque photographs and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
End your day with a sunset cruise on the lake, experiencing the vibrant colors reflecting on the water. Relax and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature as the day comes to a close.
Begin your day with a visit to Hell's Gate National Park, where you can hike or bike through stunning landscapes and dramatic cliffs. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including zebras and gazelles.
Take a guided tour to see the geothermal features and the iconic Fischer’s Tower. After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot within the park.
Return to your accommodation and unwind with a delicious dinner while reflecting on the day's adventures. Consider a night walk near the lodge to experience the local flora and fauna under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty with Lake Naivasha and nearby national parks.
- Rich biodiversity including various wildlife and bird species.
- Rising tourist destination with activities like boat rides and nature walks.
- Strong agricultural sector, particularly in flower farming.
- Pleasant climate contributing to outdoor activities year-round.
- Potential over-reliance on tourism can lead to economic vulnerability.
- Environmental concerns, including pollution and water depletion of Lake Naivasha.
- Infrastructure challenges, including roads and public transport.
- Risk of conflicts over land use between agricultural and conservation interests.
- Social issues such as poverty and inequality may persist in certain areas.
Best Activities in Naivasha
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the serene beauty of Lake Naivasha by taking a boat ride. Spot hippos and a variety of bird species while enjoying the tranquil waters.
Explore the stunning landscapes of Hell's Gate National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs, geothermal activity, and diverse wildlife. Enjoy activities like hiking, cycling, and rock climbing.
Rent a bicycle and take a leisurely ride around the lake's edge. Enjoy scenic views and the opportunity to see wildlife up close.
Naivasha is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to over 400 species of birds. Bring binoculars and enjoy birdwatching in various locations around the lake.
Take a boat trip to Crescent Island, a sanctuary for wildlife where you can walk among animals such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in their natural habitat.
Try your hand at fishing in Lake Naivasha, known for its fish species including tilapia and trout.
Set up camp in designated camping areas around Lake Naivasha to experience a night under the stars, complete with the sounds of nature.
Learn about the conservation efforts in the area and explore the beautiful surroundings. The center was once the home of the famed conservationist Joy Adamson.
Tours
Uncover the best of Naivasha with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Naivasha
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by stunning landscapes, ideal for capturing photos of wildlife such as hippos and a variety of bird species, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its dramatic cliffs and geological formations, Hell's Gate offers numerous viewpoints for spectacular photos, including the iconic Fischer's Tower and the geothermal features.
An extinct volcano that provides panoramic views of Lake Naivasha and the surrounding Rift Valley. Hikers can capture breathtaking vistas from the summit.
A prominent viewpoint overlooking the landscape, with opportunities for scenic photography of the cliffs and the expansive savannah below.
A serene haven with stunning views of Lake Naivasha and its wildlife. This location is perfect for capturing images of the picturesque lake and the animals roaming freely.
Boat rides on Lake Naivasha provide unique angles and opportunities to photograph wildlife, including birds and hippos, as well as the stunning landscapes surrounding the lake.
Food in Naivasha
Naivasha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat, often goat or beef, seasoned with a mix of spices and served with a side of vegetables and ugali. Best experienced at local open-air grills or 'nyama choma' joints like Kikopey Nyama Choma along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught from Lake Naivasha, tilapia is often prepared with a blend of local herbs and spices. Don't miss the chance to savor this dish at Carnelly's Restaurant with stunning lake views.
This staple dish features a stiff maize porridge called ugali, typically served with sukuma wiki, a nutritious and flavorful indigenous vegetable. Enjoy this traditional fare at local roadside eateries or at Mama Njeri's Kitchen for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Naivasha better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Maasai Market in Naivasha town for an array of local street foods such as 'mandazi' (a sweet fried dough), 'bhajia' (spiced potato fritters), and 'smokie pasua' (grilled split sausage).
Explore the Karagita Fish Market for a lively experience where you can sample freshly grilled fish and interact with local fishermen for a deeper understanding of the region's fishing culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Naivasha, greetings are very important. A handshake is common but often followed by asking about each other's well-being. It's respectful to greet the eldest person first in a group setting.
While Kenyans are generally warm and welcoming, maintaining appropriate personal space is important. Avoid standing too close or touching unless you have established a close relationship.
Dressing modestly is highly valued, especially in rural areas like Naivasha. When visiting religious sites or local communities, it is advisable to wear conservative clothing to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Naivasha
Ensure a smooth experience
In Naivasha, Kenya, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip service staff in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides, typically ranging from 10% to 15% of the bill. Tipping reflects appreciation for good service and is often given in cash.
Payment practices in Naivasha include cash and mobile money services like M-Pesa, which are widely used. Credit and debit cards are accepted at some larger establishments, but cash remains the preferred method for many local vendors and small businesses. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This period is generally warm and dry, making it one of the best times to visit Naivasha. Expect sunny days ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, boat rides on Lake Naivasha, and bird watching.
These months mark the long rainy season, with heavy rainfall observed. While the landscape becomes lush and vibrant, outdoor activities may be limited. However, this is a great time for birdwatching as migratory birds return.
This is the cooler and dry season, providing comfortable temperatures for exploration. It is perfect for visiting nearby attractions like Hell's Gate National Park and enjoying wildlife sightings.
This period transitions back to warmer weather, with occasional rains starting in November. Tourist activity increases during this time, particularly in December. Expect beautiful landscapes and an opportunity to engage in festive local events.
Naivasha at Night
Hiking in Naivasha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique hiking destination with scenic views, wildlife, and geothermal activity. The park offers various trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
An iconic stratovolcano offering a challenging hike to the summit with breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha. The trail circles the crater rim.
While primarily known for water activities, there are walking paths and scenic areas around the lake that offer relaxing hikes with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife encounters.
A lesser-known hiking spot with rugged beauty, ideal for adventurous hikers looking to explore the serene landscape and experience local wildlife.
A beautiful island on Lake Naivasha that can be explored on foot. It's home to various animals and provides flat walking paths and stunning views of the lake.
Aiports
How to reach Naivasha by plane.
Located approximately 85 km southeast of Naivasha, this is the largest and busiest airport in Kenya, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Situated about 79 km southeast of Naivasha, Wilson Airport primarily handles domestic flights and is the second busiest airport in Kenya.
Approximately 97 km west of Naivasha, Kisumu International Airport serves both domestic and regional international flights.
Located around 150 km northwest of Naivasha, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kikuyu are the largest ethnic group in Kenya and are predominantly found in the central highlands, including areas around Naivasha.
The Maasai people are a semi-nomadic group known for their distinctive customs and dress. They inhabit the southern part of Nakuru County, which includes Naivasha.
The Kalenjin community is prominent in the Rift Valley region and has a significant presence in Naivasha.
The Luo are predominantly found in the western part of Kenya but have a presence in Naivasha due to migration and urbanization.
The Luhya ethnic group is one of the largest in Kenya, and while they are primarily located in western Kenya, some have settled in Naivasha.
The Samburu people, closely related to the Maasai, are also found in the region and are known for their pastoralist lifestyle.
There is a small but influential Indian community in Naivasha, involved in various businesses and agriculture.
Various other ethnic and demographic groups are found in Naivasha, including immigrants from other regions and countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Naivasha, with local clubs and teams engaging in competitive matches and leagues.
Rugby has a growing following in Naivasha, with schools and clubs promoting the sport and organizing tournaments.
Naivasha hosts various athletics events, with many local runners participating in national competitions.
Basketball is played at schools and community levels, with increasing interest among the youth.
Swimming is popular in Naivasha due to its proximity to lakes, and various clubs offer training and competitions.
Fishing is not only a popular pastime in Naivasha but also a competitive sport, especially given the area's rich aquatic biodiversity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naivasha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prevalent, several eateries in Naivasha, such as Francesco's Pizzeria and Restaurant, offer delicious vegetarian pizzas, pastas, and salads. Additionally, Cafe Lava is revered for its diverse vegan and vegetarian menu.
For those with gluten sensitivities, consider dining at Brioche, which provides gluten-free bread and pastry options, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for gluten-free visitors.