If you are planning a Kenya safari, Naivasha is one of the destinations you will visit. But, you might be wondering why Naivasha is popular an one of the preferred destination by safari seekers. Here is the list of 8 best things to do in Naivasha.
Wait, where is Naivasaha and why is it popular? Naivasha is a small town in the Rift Valley near lake Naivasha, the only freshwater lake in the Rift Valley. Upon your visit, Lake Naivasha offers so many opportunities with unlimited possibilities.
From boat riding to seeing beautiful birds along the shores of the lake. From game drives to hiking, horseback safaris to cycling safaris… Lake Naivasha offers so many things to do, but being bored is none of them.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best safari activities in Naivasha, leaving you with memories that last a lifetime. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of Naivasha!
Introduction to Naivasha
If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari destination, look no further than Naivasha. This hidden gem offers a variety of safari activities that are sure to please any traveler; from minors to the seniors.
Naivasha is home to various wildlife, including lions, leopards, and elephants. Apart from the normal safari experience, there are also several best things to do to tailor your experience to your interests. Whether you want to take a boat ride on the lake or go hiking in the wilderness, there’s something for everyone in Naivasha.
In addition to its abundance of wildlife, Naivasha is also home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Africa. There’s no shortage of breathtaking views, from the lush green plains to the stunning Lake Naivasha.
So whether you’re looking for an action-packed safari adventure or a relaxing getaway surrounded by natural beauty, Naivasha is the perfect destination.
Things to Do in Naivasha During Your Safari
If you’re looking for an African safari a little off the beaten path, consider Naivasha, Kenya. This beautiful region is home to a variety of unforgettable safari experiences. Here are just a few of the things you can do on a Naivasha safari:
1. Camping in Hell’s Gate National Park
If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari experience in Naivasha, look no further than Hell’s Gate National Park. This hidden gem offers a unique camping experience unlike any other.
Situated on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Hell’s Gate National Park is home to various wildlife, including zebra, gazelle, eland, and even lions. The park has several geothermal features: hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling mud pools.
One of the best ways to experience Hell’s Gate National Park is to camp overnight in the park. There are several campsites to choose from, each offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. And, with no fences or boundaries, you’ll feel like you’re in the wild.
If you want an unforgettable safari experience, add Hell’s Gate National Park to your list.
2. Wildlife Exploration and African Safari Activities
Nestled in the heart of Kenya’s Rift Valley, Naivasha is a nature lover’s paradise. From hiking and biking to bird watching and wildlife safaris, there is no shortage of things to do in this beautiful region.
One of the most popular activities in Naivasha is wildlife exploration. Whether you are looking to go on a self-guided safari or book a tour with a local company, there are plenty of options for getting up close and personal with the area’s fantastic wildlife.
Some of the best places to see wildlife in Naivasha include Hell’s Gate National Park, and the crescent island. These parks offer unique opportunities to see giraffes, zebras, hippos,buffalo, and many other animals in their natural habitat.
If you want to learn more about the local wildlife, e offer several guided safari tours that will take you on an educational journey through the parks. These tours are led by experienced guides who will share their knowledge about the animals and their ecology with you.
No matter how you choose to explore the wildlife of Naivasha, it will surely be an unforgettable experience!
3. Excursion to Crescent Island Game Park
This park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary located on Lake Naivasha in Kenya. It is known for its stunning scenery, diverse birdlife, and abundant wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and buffalo. If you plan an African Safari, Crescent Island Game Park is a must-visit destination. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your excursion:
- Transportation: You can get to Crescent Island Game Park by road. It’s about a 90-minute drive from Nairobi. You can enjoy a scenic ride on Lake Naivasha by boat and see various birds and hippos.
- African Safari Walk: Crescent Island is unique in that you can take a walking safari through the park. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife and take fantastic photographs.
- Guides: You should hire a guide to take you through the park. The principles know the wildlife and can help you spot animals you might otherwise miss.
- Weather: Kenya has a tropical climate, so it is essential to dress appropriately for the weather. It can get quite hot during the day, so wear light-colored and breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. It is also a good idea to bring a rain jacket, as it can rain unexpectedly.
- Photography: Crescent Island Game Park is a photographer’s paradise, so bring your camera and plenty of memory cards. Be sure to ask your guide for tips on how to get the best shots.
Visiting Crescent Island Game Park is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed on an African Safari.
4. Exploring the Longonot National park
Longonot National park is a popular destination located in Naivasha. It’s known for its stunning views, unique landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Here are some tips for exploring Longonot National Monument.
- Hiking: LongonotNational Monument is home to Mount Longonot, an extinct volcano that offers excellent hiking opportunities. The hike to the top of the crater is about 3 miles long and takes approximately 2-3 hours. It’s a steep climb, so wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
- Wildlife Viewing: Longonot National Monument is home to various animals, including giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and baboons. Keep an eye out for these animals during your hike.
- Birds Watch: The park is also known for its birdlife, with over 70 species recorded in the area. Some common birds you might see include vultures, eagles, and hornbills.
- Photography: Longonot National Monument offers breathtaking views of the Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha, and the surrounding landscapes. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the stunning scenery.
- Weather: The climate in the Rift Valley region can be hot and dry, so be sure to wear light and comfortable clothing. Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Safety: It’s important to note that hiking to the top of the crater can be challenging, and visitors should be in good physical condition. Visitors should also hire a guide during the hike for safety reasons.
Overall, Longonot National park is a unique and exciting destination to explore during an African Safari, Offering a chance to hike, watch wildlife, and capture stunning photographs of the scenic views.
Hot Air Balloon Rides over Masai Mara
Hot air balloon rides over the Masai Mara in Kenya offer a unique and unforgettable experience during an African Safari. Here are some things to remember when planning a hot air balloon ride over Masai Mara.
- Timing: Hot air balloon rides over Masai Mara are usually conducted early, starting before sunrise. This is the best time to view the wildlife, as the animals are more active during the more excellent hours of the day.
- Duration: The duration of the hot air balloon ride varies depending on the operator, but it usually lasts between 1-2 hours. The ride may cover a distance of around 10-15 kilometers, offering breathtaking views of the Masai Mara Reserve.
- Wildlife Viewing: A hot air balloon ride offers unique vantage points to view wildlife in their natural habitats. You can expect to see various animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
- Safety: Choosing a reputable and licensed operator for your hot air balloon ride is essential. The operator should have experienced pilots and well-maintained pieces of equipment. It’s also crucial to follow the safety instructions provided by the operator.
- Dress Appropriately: It can be chilly in the morning, so it’s important to dress warmly in layers. Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, as you will stand in a basket for the ride.
- Photography: A hot air balloon ride over Masai Mara offers incredible photo opportunities, so bring your camera and plenty of memory cards. The lighting during the early morning can be spectacular, so experiment with different camera settings.
A hot balloon ride over Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed during an African Safari. It offers a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes and Wildlife of Kenya.
5. Boat Rides and Fishing Excursions in Safari
Boat riding is one of the best experiences you can get during your safari in Naivasha. Here, you will experience abundant aquatic life on boat, birding, and awe-inspiring views of the lake.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, there’s something for everyone on a Naivasha fishing trip. The freshwater lakes of Naivasha are teeming with tilapia, catfish, and bass, making for some great catches. And if you’re up for a challenge, you can try to spot the elusive Nile perch.
For those who prefer to stay dry, a boat tour on Lake Naivasha is the perfect way to enjoy the stunning scenery. As you cruise around the lake, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like hippos, giraffes, and waterbucks. And be sure to stop at Crescent Island, where you can get up close and personal with zebras, gazelles, and other animals that call this place home.
6. Hiking Trails around Naivasha
Naivasha is a beautiful area for various hiking trails that will take you on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Kenya. From the lush green forests to the open plains, you will enjoy every sight.
One of the best things about Naivasha is that it’s relatively close to Nairobi, so you won’t have to spend hours traveling to get there. Once you arrive, you can start exploring the area’s fantastic hiking trails. Here are just a few of the trails you can check out:
1. The Crater Lake Trail: This trail takes you to the stunning Crater Lake, surrounded by volcanic rock formations. The trail is about 3 kilometers long and takes around 2 hours.
2. The Devil’s Gate Trail: This trail takes you through the Devil’s Gate National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, and elephants. The track is around 6 kilometers long and takes approximately 3 hours.
3. The Lake Elmenteita Trail: This trail takes you around Lake Elementeita, a beautiful soda lake home to various bird species. The course is around 8 kilometers long and takes about 4 hours.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, a trail in Naivasha is perfect for you. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your safari adventure today!
7. Relaxation Areas and Hot Springs in Naivasha
Do you know how Lake Naivasha came to be from your geography class? Yes, you are right. It was due to the Volcanic activities that erupted and the lake was formed. Now, up to date, we have hot springs gushing hot water from the ground. This is one unforgettable experience I want you to enjoy as you are coming for the safari. Another thing, you can take dip in a hot spa and your skin will be as smooth as that of a kid(literally)
One of the best ways to relax in Naivasha is to dip in one of its many hot springs. The springs are located in several places, including the Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha. There’s something genuinely magical about soaking in the warm waters while surrounded by the stunning Kenyan landscape.
No matter what type of safari experience you’re looking for, Naivasha will indeed have something for you. So why not add this hidden gem to your list of must-see destinations?
8. Cultural Experiences in the Region
Naivasha is home to several unique cultural experiences perfect for visitors looking to get off the beaten track. From visiting local Masai villages to learning about traditional Kenyan cuisine, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the local culture.
One of the best ways to experience the culture of Naivasha is to visit one of the many Masai villages in the area. The Masai are traditionally nomadic people who have lived in Kenya for centuries. They are known for their colorful clothing, beaded jewelry, and impressive jumping skills. Visitors can learn about Masai culture and see traditional dances and singing at many village tourist camps.
Another great way to experience the culture of Naivasha is to try some traditional Kenyan cuisine. Several town restaurants serve authentic Kenyan dishes, including stews, curries, and even grilled meats. For something truly unique, try some camel meat – it’s a local specialty!
So, whether you want to learn about new cultures or try some delicious food, add a few cultural experiences to your Naivasha itinerary.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post has helped you discover some of the hidden gems of Naivasha that will make your next safari experience unforgettable! If you have any other questions about safari activities, please get in touch with us at info@denkitravels.
Thank you for reading; we are always excited when one of our posts can provide helpful information on a topic like this!