2 Days Lake Nakuru And Lake Naivasha Safari Package

If you’re dreaming of Kenya’s iconic wildlife and breathtaking scenery but short on time, this 2-day safari to Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha offers a concentrated dose of nature’s best — without the long-haul or hefty price tag. While it’s a quick trip, it’s packed with opportunities to see flamingos, rhinos, hippos, and more, all set against the backdrop of Kenya’s spectacular Great Rift Valley.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guides bring the parks alive with their knowledge, making each animal sighting more meaningful. Second, the scenic drives through the Rift Valley are genuinely breathtaking, offering photo-worthy views. Third, the boat ride on Lake Naivasha gives you an up-close look at waterbirds, hippos, and the chance to walk freely on Crescent Island — a rare opportunity for a guided walking safari in Kenya.

A potential consideration? The cost of park entry and extras like drinks or canoe rides aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to explore further. This tour is perfect for those seeking an efficient yet authentic safari experience, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.

Key Points

  • Affordable and well-organized 2-day itinerary focused on two iconic lakes
  • Expert English-speaking guides enhance wildlife spotting and park knowledge
  • Includes full-board accommodation at a comfortable guest house
  • Scenic drives and birdwatching opportunities are abundant
  • Boat ride on Lake Naivasha offers close encounters with hippos and waterbirds
  • Park entrance fees and extras are not included, so plan for additional costs
You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Kenya’s Wildlife and Scenic Wonders in Two Days

This 2-day Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha safari is an excellent choice for travelers looking to maximize their time in Kenya without sacrificing the quality of the experience. It combines the thrill of game viewing with the tranquility of lakeside landscapes, all within a budget-friendly package.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Lake Nakuru

Our journey kicks off early, with your driver arriving promptly at your hotel or airport. The trip to Lake Nakuru takes around three hours, but it’s far from dull — the drive alone is a highlight. You’ll wind through the scenic Great Rift Valley, with its steep escarpments and volcanic formations. Stops at viewpoints offer a bird’s-eye view of the long, winding lakes below, giving you a taste of the stunning geology that makes this region so unique.

Once in Nakuru, you’ll check into a local guest house, then head straight into the park by 11 am. The first stop is the lake itself, where flamingos and other waterbirds paint the shoreline in shades of pink and white, creating picture-perfect scenes. The park’s reputation for rhino sightings is well-earned; visitors report seeing black and white rhinos grazing on lush riparian flora, often within easy view.

The game drives include popular spots like Baboons Cliff and Makalia Falls, which add variety and photos. The latter is a lovely waterfall set amidst the woodland — a quieter spot away from the larger herds, perfect for some peaceful reflection or birdwatching.

You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area, a practical touch that keeps the day moving smoothly. As the sun dips, dinner is served back at the guest house, where comfort and good company make for a relaxing evening.

Day 2: Lake Naivasha and Return to Nairobi

Wake up refreshed for your second day, starting with a hearty breakfast before heading to Lake Naivasha, just a short drive away. Here, the highlight is the boat ride, which typically lasts around an hour. It’s a chance to get close to hippos lounging in the water and to see waterfowl like herons and ducks that flock to the lake’s shores.

One of the most memorable parts? The short walk on Crescent Island, a protected area where you can stretch your legs and observe wildlife without the threat of predators. Since there are no big cats on the island, guided walking safaris are safe and more intimate, allowing for a different perspective on the wildlife — from giraffes browsing to zebras grazing.

Lunch in Naivasha provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on your trip, with local eateries offering fresh, tasty options before heading back to Nairobi. The journey home is smooth and relaxed, with your guide dropping you off at your hotel or the airport.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers quality transportation in a customized safari van, full-board accommodation, and the services of a knowledgeable guide who is fluent in English. These guides are often praised for their friendly demeanor and wildlife expertise, making sightings more rewarding. You’ll also enjoy bottled mineral water throughout and guaranteed window seats for prime viewing.

However, it’s important to note that park entry fees and conservation charges aren’t included, so you should budget for those. The tour also excludes lunch on the first day, soft drinks, alcohol, canoe rides, tips, and any additional activities outside those planned.

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Flexibility and Booking

One perk is the ability to reserve your spot with a pay-later option—a flexible approach for travelers with uncertain plans. Cancellations are straightforward, with full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

The Value of This Safari

Considering the cost of $440 per person, this tour offers solid value for its inclusions and the experience it delivers. The combination of game drives, scenic drives, boat rides, and guided walks ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes.

The emphasis on expert guides adds depth to the trip — they help you spot elusive animals and share insightful details that elevate the experience beyond just looking at animals through a window. Plus, the scenery along the Rift Valley is a photographer’s dream, from the volcanic cones of Longonot to the flamingo-filled lakes.

While it’s a fast-paced itinerary, the tour strikes a good balance, offering enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights and take photos without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for travelers who want a concentrated wildlife experience without the commitment of a longer safari.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for first-time visitors to Kenya or those with limited time but eager to see key highlights. It’s also suited for families or small groups looking for a safe, guided, and comfortable adventure.

If you’re someone who values good guides and scenic drives, and you’re comfortable with a full schedule, this trip will satisfy your wildlife curiosity. It’s less suited for travelers seeking an in-depth, multi-day safari or those wanting to explore off the beaten path, but for a quick, immersive experience, it hits many of the right notes.

The Sum Up

This 2-day safari to Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha offers a compact but authentic taste of Kenya’s wildlife and natural beauty. The combination of game viewing, birdwatching, and scenic landscapes makes it a great introduction or a quick getaway for seasoned travelers.

The guided tours ensure you don’t miss key sightings, while the boat ride and walking safari add variety that’s hard to find in many short safari packages. The value is boosted by the knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and the sheer beauty of the lakes and parks.

While park fees and extras are additional, the overall experience remains affordable and highly rewarding. It’s an excellent choice if you want a well-organized, engaging, and scenic safari that fits into a busy schedule — especially if you’re eager to tick off some of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife spots.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a balanced, engaging, and affordable introduction to Kenya’s wilderness, with enough flexibility to make it comfortable and memorable.

FAQ

Are park entrance fees included? No, park entrance and conservation fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

What is the transportation like? You’ll travel in a customized safari van equipped for comfort, with guaranteed window seats to maximize your wildlife viewing.

How long is the boat ride on Lake Naivasha? The boat trip typically lasts around one hour, providing close-up views of hippos and birds.

Can I walk on Crescent Island? Yes, guided walking safaris happen on Crescent Island, which has no big cats, so it’s safe and ideal for a relaxed stroll among wildlife.

Is the accommodation comfortable? Yes, it is a full-board guesthouse that offers a comfortable base after your days of exploring.

Are tips included? No, tips for guides and drivers are not included and are appreciated if you feel the service was exceptional.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and binoculars if you have them.

Is this suitable for kids? The tour can suit families, especially since Crescent Island is safe for walking and there are plenty of animals to see.

What’s the best time to go? While not specified, wildlife sightings are generally good year-round, but check local conditions for seasonal variations.

Can I customize the itinerary? The tour is pre-arranged, but flexible booking options allow you to keep your plans fluid.

This 2-day Kenyan safari proves that even a short trip can be packed with unforgettable wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes—making it a smart choice for those eager to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort or value.

You can check availability for your dates here: