2 Day Tour Lake Nakuru, Hell' s Gate & Lake Naivasha Safari

This 2-day safari offers a compact but enriching experience of Kenya’s central wildlife hotspots. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed accounts and reviews suggest it’s a well-rounded adventure, combining game drives, active cycling, and relaxing boat rides. It’s a great way to pack wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and some authentic local encounters into just a weekend.

What immediately appeals are the diverse activities—from spotting flamingos at Lake Nakuru to cycling through Hell’s Gate, and then enjoying a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. The tour is priced at $425 per person, which seems reasonable considering the included guided game drives, bike rentals, and hotel stay. The only thing to keep in mind is that the accommodation received mixed reviews, so if comfort is a priority, it’s worth being prepared for a simple stay. This tour appears well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, active travelers, or anyone looking to experience Kenya’s natural beauty without a lengthy commitment.

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Key Points

Wildlife variety: See giraffes, rhinos, lions, flamingos, and many more species.
Active adventure: Bike within Hell’s Gate for up-close animal spotting.
Scenic views: Elevated stop at the Great Rift Valley offers breathtaking vistas.
Boat ride: Enjoy a calming hour on Lake Naivasha, spotting hippos and birds.
Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides help maximize spotting and understanding.
Mixed accommodation reviews: Hotel quality varies; some travelers found it basic but clean.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Looking for more options in Nakuru? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel, where a private driver guides you northwest into Kenya’s heartland. The journey itself is part of the experience, with a quick stop at a viewing point to admire the Great Rift Valley from an elevated position. This spot really sets the tone, giving you a sense of the vast geological forces shaping the landscape.

Arriving at Lake Nakuru, you’ll settle in for a pre-lunch game drive. This park is famous for its huge flocks of flamingos that blanket the lake shores, feeding on algae. But it’s not just about the birds—you’re likely to encounter Giraffes, Waterbucks, Black and White Rhinos, Buffalo, Lions, and Leopards. The park’s diverse habitats make it a prime spot for spotting all these animals in their natural environment.

Lunch is served at Buraha Zenoni Resort or similar, which offers a relaxing break and a chance to reflect on the morning’s sightings. The afternoon continues with another game drive around Lake Nakuru and its surrounding forest. Reviewers note that Richard, the guide, was very reliable and committed to showing as much wildlife as possible, helping guests see lions, zebras, rhinos, and more.

Day 2: Hell’s Gate National Park & Lake Naivasha

The second day begins with a mid-morning arrival at Hell’s Gate, where you’ll have the chance to cycle for two hours inside the park. For those who prefer, driving is also an option, making it accessible regardless of fitness or cycling preference. This activity not only offers an active way to explore but also brings you face-to-face with Giraffes, Zebras, Gnus, Hyenas, and even rare lammergeyer vultures.

One of the highlights here is the wildlife seen during the bike ride, with numerous species such as Bushbucks, Dikdiks, Gazelles, Impalas, and Buffalos. Reviewers appreciate the well-informed guides like Stephen Mutuku, who worked hard to ensure guests saw and learned about the animals. The park’s landscape is dramatic, with rugged volcanic formations and hot springs adding to the outdoor adventure.

Around noon, you’ll return the bikes at the park gate before heading to Naivasha Fisherman’s Camp for lunch (own expense). Then, the tour offers a relaxing boat ride on Lake Naivasha at about USD 20 per person. This peaceful cruise provides a different perspective on the wildlife, with hippos, buffalo, fish eagles, and pelicans often spotted. The boat ride is a favorite for many, providing tranquil scenery and wildlife sightings that are best appreciated at a gentle pace.

The tour concludes with the drive back to Nairobi, arriving around 6 pm, making it ideal for travelers with limited time but a strong interest in Kenya’s natural wonders.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers hotel accommodation at Buraha Zenoni Resort or similar, bicycle hire at Hell’s Gate, and a private guide for the park and biking activities. The transportation between Nairobi and the parks is also included, which simplifies logistics and ensures comfort.

However, extras like the Lake Naivasha boat ride (USD 20), lunch on the second day, and any alcoholic drinks are not included. Reviewers mention that the hotel’s quality can vary significantly; some found it basic and lacking atmosphere, but it’s a clean place to rest after a long day.

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Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer, Martin, highlighted the variety of wildlife sightings—from lions and zebras to rhinos—and praised the reliability and friendliness of Richard, the guide. He also appreciated the hotel’s cleanliness and comfort.

Another, Annelies, enjoyed the excellent activities and guide, particularly noting Stephen Mutuku’s knowledge and caring attitude. Her main gripe was the hotel, which she found very disappointing, describing it as “the most miserable hotel” she’d stayed in, mainly due to poor food and atmosphere. Despite this, she emphasized that the guides’ efforts made the tour memorable, and she felt she saw all the animals she hoped for.

There's plenty more to explore in Nakuru

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for biking and game drives.
Bring binoculars if you have them; the birdlife and distant animals are often best seen through binoculars.
Prepare for variable hotel standards—if comfort is a priority, consider bringing your own amenities or upgrading if options are available.
The boat ride is optional but highly recommended for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
Timing is key—arriving at Hell’s Gate mid-morning maximizes the wildlife you’ll see during biking.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of wildlife, scenery, and physical activity. It’s ideal for those with a day or two to spare, looking for a cost-effective way to see Kenya’s iconic parks without sacrificing the variety of experiences. Nature lovers who appreciate both sightings and outdoor pursuits will enjoy the combination of game drives, biking, and boat rides.

It’s also suited for families or groups comfortable with basic accommodations and eager to learn from knowledgeable guides. However, if hotel comfort is a priority or if you prefer a more luxurious stay, you might find the lodging lacking.

The Sum Up

This 2-day safari offers a well-rounded glimpse of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, blending active pursuits with relaxing moments on lakeshores and boat decks. The guided game drives, cycling, and boat rides provide multiple ways to connect with nature, making it a versatile option for adventure-minded travelers.

While the hotel quality may vary, the overall experience seems rewarding, especially with dedicated guides like Richard and Stephen, who enhance the trip with their knowledge and friendly attitude. The tour’s value lies in its multifaceted approach—combining wildlife, scenery, and activity—at a reasonable price point.

If you’re looking for a dynamic, wildlife-focused getaway that balances adventure with comfort and affordability, this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly suitable for those with a curiosity about Kenya’s diverse ecosystems and a desire to include some physical activity in their safari adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included from Nairobi to the parks?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Nairobi, ensuring easy and comfortable transportation.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can expect to see giraffes, rhinos, lions, flamingos, zebras, buffalo, hippos, and many bird species including fish eagles and pelicans.

Can I cycle inside Hell’s Gate?
Yes, you will have a 2-hour biking experience inside Hell’s Gate Park, with an option to drive if preferred.

Is the boat ride on Lake Naivasha included?
No, the boat ride costs an additional USD 20 per person but is highly recommended for wildlife viewing.

What accommodation is provided?
The stay is at Buraha Zenoni Resort or a similar hotel, which some travelers found to be simple but clean.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, guides like Richard and Stephen are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and dedication to showing wildlife.

How physically demanding is the biking activity?
The biking is moderate—suitable for most fitness levels—though some may opt to drive instead.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for biking, binoculars, sunscreen, and personal essentials.

Is dinner included?
Dinner is included on the first night, but the second day’s lunch is at your own expense.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with flexible booking options and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the joy of outdoor activity, all within a manageable weekend trip. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Kenya’s natural beauty—perfect for adventurers eager to explore beyond the usual safari routes.