Crowned crane and birdlife at Lake Naivasha in Kenya

2 Days / 1 Night

Lake Naivasha Safari

Boat safari, Crescent Island walking safari, and Hell's Gate National Park from Nairobi.

Duration

2 Days / 1 Night

Accommodation

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

Transport

Private 4x4 Safari Vehicle

Group Price

From USD 948

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in Kenya's Great Rift Valley known for hippos, birdlife, open landscapes, and easy access to several different outdoor experiences.

This 2-day, 1-night safari combines three distinct experiences: a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, a walking safari on Crescent Island, and an excursion to Hell's Gate National Park.

Your overnight stay is at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, with full-board accommodation included as part of the package.

Lake Naivasha Safari Highlights

Lake Naivasha Boat Safari

Cruise across the freshwater lake while looking for hippos and the diverse birdlife found around Lake Naivasha.

Crescent Island Walking Safari

Explore Crescent Island on foot with opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, impalas, and other wildlife at ground level.

Hell's Gate National Park

Explore Hell's Gate's dramatic cliffs, gorges, open landscapes, and geothermal scenery. Cycling or hiking can be added at extra cost.

Birdwatching

Lake Naivasha supports more than 400 recorded bird species, making the lake particularly rewarding for birdwatchers and photographers.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Rift Valley, Crescent Island and Hell's Gate

7:00 AM - Nairobi Departure

Your safari begins with an early morning departure from Nairobi in a 4x4 safari vehicle. Travel along the Nairobi-Naivasha Highway with a stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for panoramic photographs.

Arrival at Lake Naivasha

Continue to Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort for check-in and preparation for the first activities of the safari.

Lake Naivasha Boat Safari

Take a guided boat ride across Lake Naivasha, where hippos and abundant birdlife can be observed around the freshwater lake.

Crescent Island Walking Safari

Continue to Crescent Island Sanctuary for a guided walking safari among giraffes, zebras, impalas, antelopes, and other wildlife in an open natural setting.

Lunch at the Resort

Return to Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort for lunch before the afternoon excursion.

Hell's Gate National Park

Travel to Hell's Gate National Park, known for its towering cliffs, gorges, open landscapes, and geothermal features. Explore the park by vehicle, with optional cycling or hiking available at additional cost.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort for dinner and your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

2

Lake Naivasha to Nairobi

8:00 AM - Breakfast and Checkout

Enjoy breakfast at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort before checking out.

Return to Nairobi

Depart Lake Naivasha and travel back to Nairobi, where you will be dropped off at your agreed hotel, residence, or other destination.

Meals: Breakfast

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

Your 2-day, 1-night package includes a stay at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort with full-board accommodation. Meals are provided according to the safari itinerary.

What's Included

  • Full-board accommodation at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort
  • Private transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional safari guide
  • Lake Naivasha boat ride
  • Crescent Island walking safari
  • Hell's Gate National Park entry

What's Not Included

  • Bike hire at Hell's Gate National Park
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • International flights

Best Time to Visit Lake Naivasha

June to October

Dry Season

Generally drier conditions provide good opportunities for boat rides, walking activities, wildlife viewing, and photography.

January to February

Short Dry Period

Warm and generally dry weather makes this another strong period for Lake Naivasha activities and wildlife viewing.

November to December

Short Rains

The landscape becomes greener and migratory bird activity can add variety to the lake experience. Showers are often more likely later in the day.

March to May

Long Rains

The wetter season brings lush scenery and changing conditions for outdoor activities. Tour timing may be adjusted according to weather and road conditions.

Why Choose Danil Scenic Tours

Three Experiences in One Safari

The itinerary combines a boat safari, a walking safari on Crescent Island, and a visit to Hell's Gate National Park.

Full Safari Logistics

Transport, accommodation, guiding, the boat ride, Crescent Island walking safari, and park entry are organised as one package.

Nairobi Departure

The safari begins and ends in Nairobi, making Lake Naivasha a practical short safari for travelers with limited time.

Full-Board Accommodation

Your overnight stay at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort includes meals according to the itinerary.

What to Pack

Clothing and Footwear

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing
  • Warm layer for the early morning
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Light rain jacket

Sun and Health Protection

  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal medication
  • Reusable water bottle

Photography and Equipment

  • Camera or smartphone
  • Binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching
  • Extra batteries or portable charger
  • Memory cards or storage

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Lake Naivasha safari cost?

The group price starts from USD 948 per person. Contact us with your travel dates and group size for confirmed availability and the final quote.

How long is the Lake Naivasha safari?

The package runs for 2 days and 1 night, with accommodation at Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort.

What activities are included?

The package includes a Lake Naivasha boat ride, a guided walking safari at Crescent Island, and entry to Hell's Gate National Park.

Is bike hire at Hell's Gate included?

No. Bike hire is optional and is not included in the package price. You can discuss cycling or hiking options when booking.

What wildlife can I see at Lake Naivasha?

The lake is known for hippos and extensive birdlife. Crescent Island offers opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, impalas, and other wildlife on foot.

Can I swim in Lake Naivasha?

Swimming in the open lake is not part of this safari. Wildlife viewing is conducted by boat and from designated land areas.

Is the Crescent Island walking safari difficult?

The activity is a guided walking experience over natural terrain. Let us know about any mobility requirements before booking so the itinerary can be discussed appropriately.

Is this safari suitable for families?

Yes. The combination of a boat ride, walking safari, and park visit can work well for families. Share the ages of younger travelers when booking so the itinerary can be planned appropriately.

Explore More Kenya Safari Experiences

Continue exploring individual destinations or compare complete safari packages.

Birdlife at Lake Naivasha in Kenya

Plan Your Lake Naivasha Safari

Experience Lake Naivasha by boat, walk among wildlife on Crescent Island, and explore the landscapes of Hell's Gate on this 2-day safari from Nairobi.

Group Price: From USD 948 per person