Is Lake Naivasha worth visiting?
A lot of travellers who plan a Kenya holiday often come up with one question, “Is Lake Naivasha worth visiting?”
| Top 10 Reasons Why Lake Naivasha is Worth Visiting |
|---|
| 1. Lake Naivasha National Park |
| 2. Lake Naivasha Boat Ride |
| 3. Lake Naivasha Flamingos |
| 4. Bird Watchin |
| 5. Crescent Island |
| 6. Hiking Mount Longnot |
| 7. Hell’s Gate National Park |
| 8. Elsamere Conservation Centre |
| 9. Maasai Village |
| 10. Stay Around Lake Naivasha |
Is Lake Naivasha worth visiting?
This blog will help you to get those answers. The renowned Lake Naivasha is a hidden gem located outside the town of Naivasha in Nakuru County, about an hour’s drive from the perpetually crowded capital city of Nairobi. Nearly 2000 meters above sea level, at the highest point of the Kenyan Rift Valley, this freshwater lake rises among an intriguing geological conglomeration of volcanic rocks and sedimentary layers. Surrounded by lush greenery grass, Lake Naivasha is the best place to see wildlife, so it is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Lake Naivasha is worth visiting, and should unquestionably be on your bucket list. Here is a list of the top reasons to visit Lake Naivasha.
Top 10 Reasons Why Lake Naivasha is Worth Visiting
1. Lake Naivasha National Park
Lake Naivasha National Park offers exhilarating adventures including rock climbing, bicycling, and trekking. It is home to an abundance of plain game and wildlife where walks are permitted. Here, you may see Rothschild giraffes, waterbucks, zebras, wild buffalos, tree-climbing lions, and black and white rhinos, two endangered species.
Two smaller lakes close to the park, Oloiden and Sonachi, are also well worth seeing. A large portion of the lakes are encircled by bird-rich yellow fever tree woods.
2. Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
Lake Naivasha’s boat ride is a unique experience and one of the many reasons that make Lake Naivasha worth visiting. It’s a bird lover’s dream where a boat trip can get you up close to avian marvels, including pigeons, flamingoes, crows, and even fish eagles. You can enjoy a leisurely boat journey that lasts, on average, 90 minutes and allows you to see the various bird species that live on Crescent Island as well as dozens of hippos wading in the water.
The 1985 Meryl Streep film “Out of Africa” was featured on this island. While you’re here, you can have a picnic or go on a walking safari with a guide to observe creatures like zebras and wildebeest.
3. Lake Naivasha Flamingos
Imagine standing on the shores of Lake Naivasha, surrounded by stunning natural beauty and suddenly catching sight of a flock of flamingos gracefully wading through the waters. Flamingo flocks that can number in the hundreds of thousands are what give this lake its well-known pink hue. The vibrant pink feathers of these majestic birds create a breathtaking sight. You can discover here both the greater and lesser flamingos. The best time to see the flamingos is during the rainy season, between November and May. And one more interesting fact about Lake Naivasha there are no crocodiles in Lake Naivasha.
4. Bird Watching
Lake Naivasha is a great destination for bird watching, with over 400 species of birds. This lake is home to a diverse waterbird community including numerous species of duck and Palearctic waders. You can also spot speckled pigeons, mourning-collared doves, red-eyed doves, ring-necked doves, and many more. Hippos, flamingos, and more than 400 different species of birds live in abundance around the lake which makes Lake Naivasha worth visiting. Bird enthusiast can plan their trip during the cool-dry season from July to October and enjoy a Lake Naivasha Safari.
5. Crescent Island
This island is often called Naivasha’s best-kept secret and is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Lake Naivasha. This Island is a kind of private wildlife sanctuary. Here you can see some animals. This island is one of the great places for those who love birdwatching.
Here you can see over 200 species of birds. Surrounded by water, this island is accessed by boat transfer. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy a guided tour to see animals up close.
6. Hiking Mount Longonot
You can also enjoy hiking in Lake Naivasha. Mount Longonot is a dormant volcano located about 20 kilometres from Lake Naivasha. It is popular among tourists of Lake Naivasha viewpoint.
This mountain destination is popular for hiking, with a trail that takes you to the top of the crater. The hike is very difficult and dangerous but the top views are really worth your hard work to get there.
7. Hell’s Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park is unique just outside of Naivasha Lake, Nairobi. It got its name from a pair of quite large red-tinged cliffs that surround a geometrically dynamic core filled with bubbling springs and steam vents.
The park is known for its towering cliffs, geothermal activity, and diverse wildlife. This park is also home to several hot springs and geysers, including the famous Fischer’s Tower.
8. Elsamere Conservation Centre
The Elsamere Conservation Centre is a museum and a wildlife sanctuary, located on the shores of Lake Naivasha. The centre was once home to Joy and George Adamson, the couple behind the famous book and movie ‘Born Free’. The centre also has a restaurant and a gift shop.
9. Maasai Village
There are several Maasai villages located near Lake Naivasha where you can explore Maasai culture and traditions. These Maasai are semi-nomadic tribes. They have been living in Kenya more than hundreds of years.
These villages make Lake Naivasha worth visiting. Visitors can see their traditional way of life, including their distinctive dress, music, and dance. These villages also offer a chance to buy traditional Maasai crafts and souvenirs.
10. Stay Around Lake Naivasha
Stay around Lake Naivasha offers a tranquil escape amidst breathtaking natural beauty. The air carries a crisp freshness, filled with the earthy scent of wild flora. As you stroll along the lakeshore, the gentle lapping of water against the shore soothes your soul. The vibrant colours of vibrant birdlife, gracefully perched on nearby trees, paint a picturesque scene. The rustling of leaves and distant calls of wildlife create a symphony of nature’s harmony. Sunsets cast a warm golden glow, casting enchanting reflections on the water’s surface. Here, amidst serene surroundings, one finds solace, peace, and a connection to the raw beauty of Africa’s wilderness.
Conclusion
Lake Naivasha is a destination that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, hiking, culture, or simply the natural beauty of the area, you’ll find everything that makes Lake Naivasha worth visiting.
F.A.Q.
Lake Naivasha’s stunning beauty and rich biodiversity make it an irresistible destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its flourishing wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and diverse bird species, the lake offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Lake Naivasha is renowned for its diverse attractions, including the Crescent Island Game Park, where visitors can engage in exhilarating walking safaris, and Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its dramatic scenery and opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting.
Lake Naivasha stands out due to its remarkable ecosystem, which supports a diverse array of wildlife, including hippos, giraffes, and an abundance of bird species. Its proximity to major urban centers and its tranquil surroundings also make it a preferred destination for both local and international travelers.
The best time to visit Lake Naivasha is during the dry season, which typically falls between July and October, and from January to February. During these periods, the weather is pleasant, wildlife sightings are abundant, and outdoor activities are more accessible, offering visitors an optimal and enjoyable travel experience.
Visitors to Lake Naivasha can anticipate unique experiences such as exploring the breathtaking landscapes, encountering wildlife up close, and enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the lake. Additionally, the opportunity to engage in cultural interactions, savor local delicacies, and participate in eco-friendly tourism activities makes the visit to Lake Naivasha an enriching and unforgettable journey.