Things To Do
in Naivasha
Naivasha, Kenya is a stunning lakeside town situated in the Rift Valley. Known for its picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife, it serves as a gateway to national parks and reserves. The area is rich in biodiversity, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Naivasha and the surrounding landscapes, along with a vibrant local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and various bird species. Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake and its islands.
Visit Crescent Island for a walking safari among zebras and giraffes. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.
Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying freshly grilled fish from the lake. End your day with a sunset view over the water.
Head to Hell's Gate National Park for a morning of hiking and exploring the stunning gorges and geothermal activity.
Visit the nearby Elsamere Conservation Centre to learn about wildlife conservation and enjoy tea with views of the lake.
Experience local culture with a traditional dinner and dance performance at a local venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-100 |
| 🚖Taxi fare within town | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir shopping | $5-20 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and wildlife
- Rich cultural experiences
- Variety of outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife options
- Some areas may be crowded during peak season
- Inconsistent infrastructure in rural areas
- "Habari" - Hello
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Samahani" - Excuse me/Sorry
Places to Visit in Naivasha
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning sunrises and sunsets over the lake with reflections of the surrounding wildlife.
Photograph dramatic gorges, wildlife, and geothermal features in this scenic park.
Ideal for wildlife photography, with opportunities to capture animals in their natural habitat.
Food in Naivasha
Naivasha Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught tilapia served grilled or fried, often accompanied by ugali and vegetables.
Must-Try!
Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, enjoyed with kachumbari (fresh salsa) and ugali.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies.
Try samosas, mandazi, and roasted corn from various street vendors around town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's polite to greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile when meeting.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting local communities.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Naivasha
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, and it's common to leave around 10-15% of the bill.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile money services like M-Pesa are popular for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect frequent rains and cooler temperatures. It's best to carry waterproof gear and be cautious on muddy trails.
This is the best time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
Short bursts of rain can occur, but the landscape is lush, making it a beautiful time for photography.
Temperatures can be higher, making it ideal for lake activities but ensure to stay hydrated.
Naivasha at Night
Hiking in Naivasha
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This scenic trail offers stunning views of the geothermal features and unique rock formations.
A challenging hike through narrow gorges with breathtaking views of the park's diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Naivasha by plane.
Located approximately 90 km from Naivasha, Wilson Airport serves domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Maasai are one of the prominent ethnic groups in the area, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
The Kikuyu community is another significant demographic group, involved in various agricultural and business activities in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is immensely popular in Kenya, with many local teams and matches frequently taking place.
Rugby enjoys a strong following, with local clubs and schools competing in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naivasha.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check in advance.
While gluten-free options may be limited, rice and fresh vegetables are widely available.