Lake Naivasha: A Freshwater Oasis in the Great Rift Valley

Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake located in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. Situated northwest of Nairobi, it is a popular and convenient destination that offers a serene contrast to the country’s dusty savannahs. The lake is a haven for an incredible variety of wildlife, particularly hippos and birds, and it provides a unique and peaceful safari experience that is best explored on the water and on foot.

A World of Wildlife on the Water

A boat safari on Lake Naivasha is the primary and most rewarding activity. The lake is teeming with wildlife, and a boat trip allows for up-close encounters that are not possible in a safari vehicle.

• Hippos: The lake has a huge population of hippos. From the safety of a boat, you can get incredibly close to pods of these massive animals as they float in the water or graze along the shoreline.
• Birdwatching: Lake Naivasha is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Over 400 species have been recorded here, and a boat safari allows you to see many of them up close. You will likely see African fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants, and a huge variety of kingfishers and other waterbirds. The majestic call of the fish eagle is a constant soundtrack to the journey.

On Foot with the Wildlife: Crescent Island

One of the most unique experiences at Lake Naivasha is a visit to Crescent Island, a private wildlife sanctuary located in the middle of the lake. It is a haven for wildlife that was not affected by the recent rise in the lake’s water levels.

• The Experience: Crescent Island is a walking safari destination. There are no predators on the island, so you can safely walk among herds of giraffes, zebras, waterbucks, and a variety of other plains animals. The experience of walking side-by-side with these magnificent creatures is truly unforgettable.

Adventures in the Surrounding Area

Beyond the lake itself, the area offers a variety of other activities.

• Hell’s Gate National Park: Located a short distance from Lake Naivasha, this park is known for its dramatic volcanic scenery and is one of the few places in Kenya where you can explore the park on foot or by bicycle. It is a fantastic place for hiking and rock climbing.
• Elsamere Conservation Centre: This is the former home of Joy Adamson, the author of Born Free. It is now a conservation center and a great place to learn about the history of the area and the conservation work of the Adamsons.
• Flower Farms: The area around the lake is famous for its large flower farms, which export flowers all over the world. Many of them can be visited to see the process of flower cultivation.

A visit to Lake Naivasha is a peaceful and engaging experience that offers a perfect break from the traditional safari. It is a place to slow down, enjoy the serenity of the lake, and get closer to a different kind of wildlife.