Ultimate Guide To A Lake Naivasha Safari

Located just 90 minutes from Nairobi, Lake Naivasha is one of Kenya’s most accessible and rewarding safari destinations. Its ecosystem, including Crescent Island, Hell’s Gate, and nearby sanctuaries, functions as a diverse wildlife safari destination perfect for nature lovers, families, and photographers alike.

This ultimate guide will walk you through the top activities, wildlife to expect, travel tips, and we (Cross Wild Safaris) are your best partner for exploring this magical Rift Valley gem.

 Top Things to Do on a Lake Naivasha Safari

 1. Boat Safari on Lake Naivasha

A boat ride is the signature Lake Naivasha safari experience, where you can drift across the shimmering lake at morning or sunset when the light and wildlife activity are best, spotting hippos bathing in the shallows, African fish eagles diving for fish, and kingfishers, herons, and cormorants in action.

 2. Walking Safari on Sanctuary

Get up-close and personal with wildlife on a walking safari at Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, where; with no predators present, you can safely walk among giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and wildebeests, making it one of Kenya’s most intimate safari experiences.

 3. Explore Hell’s Gate National Park

Just 15 minutes from Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park offers a unique safari twist where adventurous travelers can cycle past zebras and giraffes, hike through the iconic Hell’s Gate Gorge, and enjoy views of volcanic towers and geothermal steam vents, an inspiring landscape that served as the backdrop for Disney’s The Lion King.

 4. Birdwatching Safari

Lake Naivasha is a birding hotspot with over 400 species recorded, including highlights like the African fish eagle, grey crowned crane, malachite kingfisher, spoonbills, and pelicans—so be sure to bring your binoculars, because you won’t be disappointed!

5. Visit Crater Lake Game Sanctuary

For a more secluded safari experience, head to the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary, located on the western side of Naivasha. Hike around the forested rim of a bright green volcanic crater lake, home to giraffes, elands, and zebras.

6. Wildlife Viewing in Lake Naivasha Area

 Best Lodges and Camps Around Lake Naivasha

There’s no shortage of accommodation to suit all budgets. Many are lakeside and offer in-house safari activities.

 Top Picks:

• Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort – Family-friendly, lakeside

• Enashipai Resort & Spa – Luxury retreat with modern amenities

• Kiboko Luxury Camp – Tent-style elegance right on the water

• Fisherman’s Camp – Budget-friendly with great vibes

 How to Get to Lake Naivasha

• By Road: 1.5–2 hours from Nairobi via the Nakuru highway

• By Air: Private airstrips available for charter flights

• Best Time to Visit: June to October and January to March (dry seasons)

 What to Pack for a Lake Naivasha Safari

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Binoculars & camera

• Hat & sunglasses

• Light jacket (evenings can be chilly)

• Eco-friendly insect repellent

Why Book with Cross Wild Safaris?

At Cross Wild Safaris, we specialize in custom Lake Naivasha safari packages that let you explore this unique destination in style and comfort. Whether you want:

• A romantic lakeside escape

• A birdwatching-focused trip

• A family-friendly wildlife adventure

• A combo safari with Lake Nakuru, or the Mara

…we’ll make it happen!

Our local guides ensure a safe, knowledgeable, and immersive experience, with every detail handled.

 Contact us now for custom packages, group rates, and expert safari advice!