
Kenya Safari Guide
Everything you need to know
Only a short drive from the crowded capital, you might be excused for thinking you’ve hopped across a couple of borders when you catch the first glimpses of the shimmering expanse of Lake Naivasha. Here, pink-eared hippos peer out over the surface, lily-trotters dart around gnarled acacias, and antelope graze lazily on the banks. The lake itself is one of two permanent lakes in the Rift Valley and is also the highest at an altitude of 1890m. Today, it provides crucial irrigation for the battalions of fragrant rose farms that line the roadsides and attracts safari-goers looking for a slower pace of still excellent game viewing.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
If you’re staying around Lake Naivasha, you’re probably in the market for some R&R. Most lodges encourage lazy, laidback days, usually spent admiring the views of the lake and distant Mount Longonot, curling up with a book, and enjoying alfresco meals. Break the day with a boat trip and look out for hippo and resident birdlife, or a spot of fishing (let us know if this is of interest; it’s not offered everywhere). In some places, you can also drive or boat over to Crescent Island for a bush walk amongst the antelope. On the other hand, you might be in Naivasha to explore Hell’s Gate. It’s the country’s smallest national park but packs a punch in terms of landscape: dramatic, volcanic and very impressive! Game drives are possible – either on a day tip or a shorter drive depending on your location – but most come for cycling, mountain biking (guided or unguided), hiking, walking and even rock climbing. Wildlife-wise, you’ll only really encounter smaller antelope and zebra so it’s not a safari hotspot.
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