Overview Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake in the Rift Valley, located at the highest point of the Kenyan rift. Its name means “rough water” in the Maasai language, referring to the sudden storms that can arise. The lake is fringed by papyrus swamps and acacia woodlands and is home to a remarkable variety of birdlife. Unlike many other Rift Valley lakes, Naivasha is fresh water, which supports a thriving floriculture industry on its shores. The lake’s water levels have fluctuated dramatically over the decades, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Rift Valley’s geology.
Activities Boat safaris are the most popular activity on Lake Naivasha, offering close-up encounters with the lake’s large hippopotamus population and abundant birdlife, including African fish eagles. A visit to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, a peninsula on the eastern shore, is a must-do, allowing you to walk among non-predatory wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest. Nearby attractions include Hell’s Gate National Park for hiking and cycling, and Elsamere Conservation Centre, the former home of Joy Adamson of “Born Free” fame.
Did you know? Lake Naivasha has no visible outlet, which is unusual for a freshwater lake; it is believed to have an underground outflow.
