Lakes Nakuru& Naivasha National Park Wildlife Highlights

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Lakes Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Wildlife Highlights Review

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines Kenya’s stunning landscapes with its incredible wildlife, this tour offers a solid option. We haven’t personally been on it, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear this experience provides a blend of birdwatching, game viewing, and relaxing boat rides that many travelers find memorable.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to see brilliant flocks of flamingoes at Lake Nakuru truly captures the essence of Kenya’s birdlife. Second, visiting two lakes in one day offers a diverse experience—wildlife and scenery at Nakuru, followed by a peaceful boat cruise on Lake Naivasha. Third, the knowledgeable guides like Anthony enhance the experience with local insights.

However, one consideration is the timing—with a 6:00 AM pickup and potential delays, your day can feel quite packed. Also, the cost of entrance fees and optional extras can add up, so budget accordingly.

This tour suits travelers eager for a full immersion into Kenya’s lakes and wildlife without the need for overnight stays. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of the safari experience, appreciate birdwatching, and enjoy scenic boat rides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Affordable Value: At $150, including transportation and a guide, it offers good value for a full-day experience.
Wildlife & Birdlife: Excellent opportunities to see flamingoes, rhinos, hippos, and more.
Scenic Views: Stunning Rift Valley vistas from the drive to the parks.
Diverse Activities: Game drives at Nakuru, a boat ride on Naivasha, and birdwatching.
Flexible Booking: Book now, pay later, with full refunds if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides like Anthony, who enhance the tour with local insights.

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

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting early at 6:00 AM, the tour kicks off with a pickup from your Nairobi accommodation or airport, ensuring no time is wasted. The drive to Lake Nakuru National Park takes you through the scenic Rift Valley, giving you a taste of Kenya’s iconic landscapes. The journey itself is part of the charm—rolling hills, lush terrain, and maybe a few roadside monkeys.

Exploring Lake Nakuru

Once inside the park, wildlife and birdwatching take center stage. Known as the “Birds’ Paradise”, Nakuru hosts over 400 bird species, with some days witnessing up to two million flamingoes. The sight of these pink birds flocking around the lake waters is truly captivating, creating a vibrant, living canvas. As one reviewer noted, “The abundance of animals!” is just part of what makes Nakuru special.

The park is also a rhinoceros sanctuary, offering exciting chances to see both black and white rhinos, which are increasingly rare elsewhere. Wildlife encounters often start right at the gate, with giraffes, zebras, and buffalos ready to greet visitors. The guides like Anthony are praised for their knowledge, helping to spot elusive animals and providing interesting facts that enrich your experience.

Lunch Break

Around midday, you’ll pause at a local lodge for lunch (own expense). While not included, this gives you a chance to relax, enjoy some local flavors, and recharge for the afternoon. The park drive continues after lunch, with more chances to see animals on the move.

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Transition to Lake Naivasha

By approximately 3:00 PM, you’ll leave Nakuru and head toward Lake Naivasha. This transition marks a shift from terrestrial wildlife to aquatic scenery. The lake is known for its hippos and diverse birdlife, including kingfishers and eagles, which you’ll have the chance to observe during the boat ride.

There's plenty more to explore in Nakuru

Lake Naivasha Boat Ride

The boat ride, lasting about an hour, is the highlight for many. As one reviewer happily shared, “Going through dead forest was breathtaking,” pointing out how the boat navigates through lush, sometimes eerie, landscapes. You’ll enjoy birdwatching, feeding eagles, and spotting hippos lounging in the water. The boat offers a peaceful, immersive way to connect with nature and see some of Kenya’s aquatic wildlife up close.

Returning to Nairobi

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Nairobi, arriving around 6:00 PM. It’s a long but rewarding day, especially if you’re eager to tick off multiple iconic lakes and their wildlife in one trip.

What’s Included and What To Budget For

Included in the price ($150 per person):

Pickup from your Nairobi accommodation or airport
Private transportation in a comfortable vehicle
An experienced, professional guide
Drop-off back in Nairobi

Extras you should plan for:

Park entrance fees ($60) which are paid on arrival
Boat ride (optional, $25) if you choose to include it
Lunch, which isn’t included but can be purchased at a local lodge
Food and drinks during the day

Some reviews highlight the importance of budgeting for these additional costs to avoid surprises.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most reviews are positive, a couple of travelers noted issues with timing and communication. For instance, one experienced a delay with the driver not showing up due to vehicle breakdown, which impacted their day. It’s worth confirming with the tour provider about vehicle status and backup plans if delays occur.

Another reviewer expressed disappointment that the tour felt rushed and that the lunch stop was skipped, which should be clarified beforehand. The guide and staff seem generally professional, but travelers should be aware that the itinerary can vary based on circumstances.

On the bright side, travelers like Maher praised the expertise of guides and the stunning scenery, especially the boat ride through what he called a “dead forest,” which added a unique perspective.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Bring your passport or ID for park entry.
Wear comfortable clothing and layers, as temperatures can fluctuate.
Prepare for early starts—a 6:00 AM pickup means waking up early but maximizing your day.
Bring binoculars for better bird and animal spotting.
Money for extras like lunch and optional activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Kenya’s lakes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It suits nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and those eager for a safari experience close to Nairobi.

It’s great for first-time visitors who want a quick immersion into Kenya’s diverse landscapes. However, if you’re very particular about timing and detailed itinerary, clarify expectations with the provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a cost-effective way to see some of Kenya’s most famous lakes and wildlife, all within a manageable day. The combination of game drives, flamingo sightings, and a peaceful boat ride makes for a varied, engaging experience. The presence of knowledgeable guides like Anthony adds value, helping you spot wildlife and learn about the environment.

While some travelers have experienced delays or felt the day was rushed, many found the scenery breathtaking and the animal sightings rewarding. It’s a good choice for those who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation in a single day.

If you’re ready for a full Kenyan lakes experience, this tour from Nairobi could be just what you need—especially if you love birdwatching and scenic landscapes. Just remember to confirm your bookings, bring some extra cash for food and fees, and get ready for a day filled with stunning views and wildlife encounters.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 AM with pickup from your Nairobi accommodation or airport.

How long is the drive to Lake Nakuru?
The drive from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru takes approximately 2-3 hours, offering scenic Rift Valley views along the way.

Are lunch and drinks included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but can be purchased at a local lodge. Drinks are also not included, so bring some water and snacks.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You may see flamingoes, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, eagles, and other savannah animals. Nakuru is especially famous for its abundant flamingos.

How much does the park entrance fee cost?
The park entrance fee is approximately $60 per person and is paid on arrival at Nakuru.

Can I join the boat ride?
The boat ride is an optional add-on costing about $25 per person. Many travelers enjoy it for the birdwatching and hippo sightings.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothing, binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera. Don’t forget extra cash for optional expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those interested in wildlife and birdwatching, but check with the provider about age restrictions for the boat ride.

This tour promises a lively, scenic, and wildlife-rich day that captures some of Kenya’s best features. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or just want to see the country’s iconic lakes, it offers a practical, rewarding adventure that many find well worth the price.