Nairobi: Lake Nakuru National Park & Lake Naivasha Day Tourr

Explore the Natural Wonders of Kenya on a Day Trip to Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha

Setting out on a day trip to Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha provides an exciting opportunity to experience Kenya’s diverse landscapes and wildlife in a single day. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, it’s designed to give travelers a comprehensive snapshot of central Kenya’s natural beauty, packed with memorable wildlife encounters and scenic vistas.

What we love about this trip is how it balances game drives—allowing you to see iconic animals like flamingos and rhinos—with the chance to enjoy a peaceful boat ride and walking safari at Lake Naivasha. The inclusion of professional guides enriches the experience, helping you spot wildlife you might otherwise miss. The scenic drives through lush landscapes and the chance to see endangered species make this a meaningful adventure. A possible drawback is that it’s a long day, so those with limited mobility or young children might need to consider the physical demands.

This tour is well-suited for wildlife lovers, nature photographers, and anyone eager to get a taste of Kenya’s iconic national parks without staying overnight. If you’re after an authentic, value-packed day that combines wildlife viewing and scenic relaxation, this trip offers a lot of what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Wildlife Diversity: See flamingos, giraffes, rhinos, lions, and more in their natural habitats.
• Scenic Landscapes: Experience the stunning views of lakes, ridges, and escarpments.
• Boat & Walking Safari: Enjoy a boat ride and a walk around Crescent Island for close-up animal encounters.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance spotting and understanding of Kenya’s ecological habitats.
• Value for Money: At $180, the tour combines transportation, game drives, and activities, making it quite comprehensive.
• Flexible Booking: Keep plans flexible with a “reserve and pay later” option, cancelling free of charge 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Kenya’s Wildlife: Lake Nakuru National Park

The journey begins with a scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its flamingos and diverse ecosystem. The park’s landscape varies from the shimmering lake, dotted with vibrant pink flamingos, to the surrounding escarpments that add dramatic flair. The shallow waters of Lake Nakuru are rich in algae, attracting countless bird species, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

One of the standout features here is the chance to see endangered species like the Rothschild’s giraffe and black rhinos. The guides are said to be quite good at pointing out these rare animals, which might be a highlight for many visitors. You’ll also look out for lions, leopards, and hyenas, which, while less predictable, can often be spotted during a well-conducted game drive.

Travelers often mention the stunning views at Nakuru, especially the way the flamingos create a surreal pink shoreline. As one reviewer noted, “The lake is just breathtaking, and seeing so many flamingos in one place is a once-in-a-lifetime sight.” The open roof of the game drive vehicle allows for unobstructed views, perfect for photography or just soaking in the scenery.

Timing is important—most tours start early in the morning to maximize wildlife sightings and avoid the midday heat. The drive lasts several hours, and with a professional guide leading the way, you’ll gain insightful info about the ecological importance of the park and its inhabitants.

Exploring Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island

After a satisfying safari at Nakuru, the trip continues to Lake Naivasha, a lush freshwater lake surrounded by thick vegetation. This part of the tour introduces a different atmosphere—more tranquil and peaceful, with a chance to see waterfowl and aquatic animals.

The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is often praised by travelers for its intimacy and up-close animal sightings. You might see hippos, waterbucks, giraffes, and even zebras grazing along the shoreline. For wildlife enthusiasts, the opportunity to walk on Crescent Island is particularly exciting. This private sanctuary allows visitors to walk among freely roaming animals in a setting that feels both wild and safe.

One reviewer mentioned that the walk around Crescent Island provided “a unique chance to get close to animals like giraffes and zebras without the barrier of a vehicle,” making it a highlight of the day. The boat ride fee is not included in the base price, so be prepared for an additional cost, but many find it well worth it.

The overall vibe at Lake Naivasha is relaxed, and the lush greenery offers a stark contrast to the more arid parts of Nakuru. It’s an excellent way to unwind after the game drive and enjoy Kenya’s aquatic ecosystems.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What Not

The tour includes an open-roof game drive, which is essential for wildlife viewing and photography. Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple, and the professional guide ensures you get the most out of each stop.

Bottled water is provided, keeping you refreshed during the day’s activities. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is an optional addition, with its fee paid separately. Likewise, entry to Lake Nakuru costs around USD 60 for adults and USD 35 for children, which is an important consideration for budgeting.

Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food along the way. The tour is conducted in English, and cancellations are flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Transport & Timing

The tour typically begins early, allowing plenty of daylight for wildlife viewing. The transportation aboard a comfortable, open-top van makes for an engaging and immersive experience. Group size tends to be moderate, fostering a friendly atmosphere, and guides are known for their knowledge and engaging commentary.

This is a long day—expect to be on the road for around 8-10 hours—so suitable for active travelers who don’t mind a full schedule. The scenery en route is also a highlight, with views of rural Kenya, lush hills, and expansive savannahs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, photographers looking for iconic Kenyan landscapes, and travelers who prefer a full-day adventure that covers multiple ecological zones. It’s also a good choice for those on a budget, as it combines transportation, guided game drives, and activities into one affordable package.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed pace may find the long hours challenging. It’s also worth noting that lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or planning meal stops might be necessary.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a great snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, combining the vibrant birdlife of Lake Nakuru with the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha. It’s perfect for those wanting to maximize wildlife encounters and scenic views in one day without the need for overnight stays.

The inclusion of boat rides and walking safaris adds a dynamic element, bringing you closer to the animals and landscapes you’ve seen from afar. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make the experience smooth and enjoyable, even for first-time visitors.

If you’re eager to see flamingos, rhinos, giraffes, and more, all set against Kenya’s iconic scenery, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable adventure. It’s especially suited for those who want a full, active day and are prepared for the early start and full schedule.

FAQ

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $180 per person, which covers transportation, game drives, and guided activities. Additional costs are for the boat ride and park entry fees.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You might see flamingos, giraffes (including endangered Rothschild’s giraffe), rhinos, lions, leopards, hyenas, zebras, and waterbucks.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.

Can I do the boat ride?
The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is optional and requires an additional fee. It’s highly recommended for close-up animal encounters.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for older children, but keep in mind the long day and physical activity involved.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Early mornings are preferred for wildlife sightings, with most tours starting early to maximize the experience.

To sum it up, this Nairobi day tour to Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha delivers a satisfying mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and engaging activities—all within a manageable full-day schedule. Whether you’re keen to see iconic animals or simply want to enjoy breathtaking views, this trip offers good value and memorable moments for a range of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: