Why visit Lake Naivasha

Why visit Lake Naivasha : Do you intend to go on a safari in Kenya? You probably have a list of must-see safari destinations that includes Masai Mara, Samburu, Nairobi National Park, and Lake Nakuru. Lake Naivasha is a location that might not be on your list but might be on your safari itinerary.

This freshwater lake is the highest elevated lake in the Great Rift Valley, rising to a height of 1880 metres, or roughly 6200 feet, midway between Lake Nakuru and Nairobi National Park. The Masai word for rough water is where the name Naivasha originates.

The waters of Lake Naivasha can get extremely turbulent during unexpected storms, which are common in the region. Naivasha is a well-liked weekend getaway spot for locals due to its close proximity to Nairobi; it’s an excellent safari destination for leisure, observing wildlife, and engaging in active hobbies like hiking, horseback riding, and cycling.

Lake Naivasha wildlife.
There are over 1500 hippos in the lake alone, so there’s a good chance you’ll get some great hippo snaps.

With over 400 different bird species living there, including pelicans, African fish eagles, hamerkops, and enormous kingfishers, it’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise. A few of the local catch includes carp, tilapia, and catfish, making it an excellent place to go fishing. Giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, impala, warthog, buffalo, and various monkey species, including the striking colobus, are among the other noteworthy animals.

What activities are offered at Lake Naivasha?

A boat ride around Lake Naivasha is a well-liked activity. During the day, taking a leisurely boat ride is an excellent method to observe hippos in the water.

In addition, there’s a good chance you’ll see many other species of water birds, including the African fish eagle. Because of the excellent light, early mornings are usually the best—especially for photographers. Walking through the Crescent Island bush with a guide is an additional option that pairs well with a boat ride.

The giraffe, zebra, and buffalo are among the many plains mammals that call the island, which is a portion of a volcanic crater rim, home. For those who enjoy riding, Hell’s Gate is a small national park where you can rent a bike and ride among the cliffs. Zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, and topi can all be seen near the geothermic springs that give Hell’s Gate its name. You can also take a guided walk through an intriguing canyon with one of the local guides.

If you enjoy hiking and strolling, Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano located in a different, less well-known national park, is only 25 minutes away down the road. It takes about four hours to walk up and down the crater, but the walk is well worth it because you will see breathtaking views of Lake Naivasha and the surrounding area when you reach the crater rim.

There are also a number of farms and ranches in the region where you can go horseback riding and see wildlife.

How long to spend at Lake Naivasha?

It’s good to stay here for one to three days, depending on how many activities you want to do. It works especially well for two days, and you should be able to fit in the majority of the main events.

What is the best time to visit Lake Naivasha?

Any time of year is a great time to visit Lake Naivasha. Although afternoon storms and rain showers can happen at any time of year, they are most common in the area during the rainy season, which runs from April to June. Even though it can get chilly in July and August, especially in the evenings, many of the camps and lodges have fireplaces where you can stay warm.

Lake Naivasha accommodation.

The accommodation options around Lake Naivasha are very good and with a variety that will suit most pockets. From the very luxurious Chui Lodge to the wonderful mid-range Sopa Lodge to the well-run camp sites such as Camp Carnelley’s, there is a lodge option to meet every budget and lodging preference.