Day 2 in Kenya was another marvel! Our morning started with a Lake Naivasha Boat Safari, where we spotted several bloats of hippos along with plenty of birdlife. In the afternoon, the adventure continued at Lake Nakuru National Park, where we were so lucky to see rhinos up close. Honestly, how could a day get any better than this?
Originally, our plan was to spend the entire day at Lake Nakuru National Park. But our safari consultant from Native Afrika Voyages advised us that the famous “millions of flamingos” weren’t there. Flamingos flock to the lake when the conditions are just right—shallow, alkaline water and plenty of algae. This usually happens during the dry seasons, from June to March.
So, we decided to add a Lake Naivasha Boat Safari in the morning before heading to Nakuru in the afternoon. Best decision ever! Read on to see what to expect from a short visit to Lake Naivasha.
If you missed it, check out my first post about Nairobi National Park where we spotted 4 of the Big Five on Day 1! 🤯
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On The Way To Lake Naivasha
Our safari guide and consultants met us in the hotel lobby that morning for a quick briefing about our safari. Then we headed out, and the moment I saw the safari jeep waiting outside, I couldn’t contain my excitement! This was it, the real start of our adventure!
The drive to Lake Naivasha took about an hour and a half, with a couple of short breaks along the way. Most of these stops were at small souvenir shops, where the bathrooms are free to use, but it’s a good idea to bring a little cash in case you want to buy something.
No pressure, though. You’re completely free to just stretch your legs and look around. One of the highlights was a stop at a viewpoint overlooking the breathtaking Great Rift Valley.
Our Lake Naivasha Boat Safari Experience
The adventure began with a boat ride across the lake. Almost instantly we were surrounded by wildlife. Pods of hippos lounged in the shallow, swampy areas. Some barely breaking the surface, with just their little ears and eyes peeking out of the water.
Pelicans soared gracefully before gliding across the lake. We noticed some tourists from other boats tossing food to lure the pelicans closer, but we chose not to. Simply watching them in the water was already magical.
But the moment that stole the show? Watching an African Fish Eagle swoop down and snatched food right from the lake. It was so fast, so powerful, and so majestic. The scene was like something out of a National Geographic documentary.
Walking Safari at Crescent Island
After the boat ride, we traded water for land. We walked past zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes, all roaming freely. A guide accompanied us the whole time to make sure we kept a safe distance and respected the animals’ space.
Of course, I had to take selfies with the giraffes, but honestly, I enjoyed the boat ride more. There’s something special about quietly photographing wildlife from a distance rather than feeling like you’re intruding on their home.
We only explored on foot for about an hour before heading back to the boat to continue our safari on the water.
Fun fact about Crescent Island: It was actually used as a filming location for the 1985 movie Out of Africa starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford. For the film, many African animals, including the Big Five, were brought to the island. Once filming wrapped, the animals were relocated, leaving behind the gentler species that still roam the island today.
Overall Experience
Overall, we spent about three hours at Lake Naivasha. By lunchtime, we wrapped up and hit the road toward Lake Nakuru National Park. And let me tell you, Lake Nakuru turned out to be another one of my absolute favorite destinations in Kenya. Watch out for that post, because you won’t want to miss it! 🙂
FAQs about Lake Naivasha Boat Safari
Is Lake Naivasha worth visiting?
Absolutely! Lake Naivasha offers a different experience from the big game safaris. The boat safari is just chill but definitely exciting. You’ll see hippos, African fish eagles, and plenty of birdlife up close. Add the walking safari on Crescent Island, where animals roam freely, and you’ve got the chance to get a little closer (always at a safe distance, of course).
Which is better, Lake Nakuru or Lake Naivasha?
It depends on what you’re looking for. At Lake Naivasha, you can enjoy a boat safari, see pods of hippos, go birdwatching, and take a walking safari on Crescent Island. Lake Nakuru, on the other hand, is all about rhinos, diverse wildlife, and during the right season, large flocks of flamingos. If you have the time, I definitely recommend doing both!
What to wear to Lake Naivasha?
Comfortable, casual safari clothing works best. Light layers, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential. Since you’ll be on a boat and walking on Crescent Island, wear comfortable shoes. A light jacket may also come in handy if you’re visiting in the early morning or late afternoon when it can get breezy.
Where to Book a Lake Naivasha Boat Safari?
Lake Naivasha is a popular stop before heading to the Maasai Mara, especially if you’re traveling there by land. Many safari companies offer it as an optional tour, so it’s easy to include in the itinerary.
We booked our affordable Kenya safari package through Native Afrika Voyages, and I can’t recommend them enough. They made everything seamless, from my initial inquiry months ago, to their clear communication, and even adjusting our itinerary upon arrival. If you decide to book with them, ask for Brian @midasafaris as your guide. Thank me later!
That’s a wrap for our Lake Naivasha adventure! A huge thank you to my friends who shared this adventure with me. You made it even more unforgettable. 💛
Have you ever been on a Lake Naivasha Boat Safari or a walking safari before? Drop your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!
And don’t forget to follow along, because up next is our game drive at Lake Nakuru National Park.
