Lake Nakuru National park & Lake Naivasha Day tour from Nairobi

A complete guide to the Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha day tour from Nairobi

Taking a day trip from Nairobi to see some of Kenya’s most iconic natural wonders sounds like a perfect plan, especially if you’re short on time but crave authentic wildlife encounters. This tour, offered by Wasili Kenya Safaris, promises a well-rounded experience with a game drive through Lake Nakuru National Park and a relaxing boat ride on Lake Naivasha, culminating in a safari walk on Crescent Island. Having checked out reviews and the detailed itinerary, it’s clear this trip has a lot to offer for those eager to explore Kenya’s Rift Valley’s stunning landscapes and abundant birdlife.

What we love about this tour is its combination of wildlife viewing, scenic boat rides, and the convenience of round-trip transfers—all packed into a single day. The private nature of the tour means you get personalized attention from your guide, which can significantly enhance the experience. Plus, the early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy the parks in the morning tranquility. However, with a 12 to 14-hour itinerary, it’s quite a long day, so this adventure is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind an early start and a full schedule.

One thing to consider is the price point—$250 per person—which is quite reasonable considering the inclusions like transportation, boat rides, and park entry fees. But it’s wise to budget for lunch separately, as it’s not included, and be prepared for some early mornings. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and anyone eager to get a taste of Kenya’s most famous lakes and their surrounding parks without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines a game drive at Lake Nakuru with a boat ride and optional safari walk at Lake Naivasha.
• Convenient logistics: Round-trip transfers from Nairobi mean you don’t have to worry about transport.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about wildlife and the parks.
• Time-efficient: Perfect for travelers with limited time, covering two major sites in a single day.
• Value for money: At $250, it offers a comprehensive experience with included boat ride and park access.
• Early start: Picking up at 5:30 am means you’ll see the parks at their most peaceful and lively.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Each Stop

Lake Nakuru National Park: Wildlife and Birdlife at Its Best

Your day begins early, with a pickup from your Nairobi hotel or residence around 5:30 am. This helps you beat the crowds and catch the park in the cool morning light, perfect for wildlife spotting. The drive down the Rift Valley offers scenic views and sets the tone for the day ahead. Arriving around 8 am, you’ll jump straight into a game drive lasting until about 12:30 pm.

Lake Nakuru is famous for its flamingos, which flock in such vast numbers that the lake often appears pink from afar. While flamingos are a highlight, the park is also home to rhinoceroses, buffalos, zebras, waterbuck, gazelles, Rothschild giraffes, and lions. Our review points out that guides are well-versed in spotting these animals, even in the dense bush, and are eager to share their knowledge. One traveler mentioned that the guide was “super cool and knowledgeable,” which makes a big difference when trying to spot elusive animals or identify birds.

After a morning of wildlife viewing, you’ll enjoy a lunch break—though the tour doesn’t include your meal, so packing a snack or purchasing food at the park might be wise. The park fee is separate, but the value of seeing these iconic animals in their natural habitat makes this a worthwhile expense.

Lake Naivasha: A Scenic Boat Ride and a Safari Walk

Post-lunch, the tour continues towards Lake Naivasha, about a two-hour drive. This is Kenya’s highest lake, sitting at roughly 1,785 meters above sea level, with stunning views and a lively bird population. The highlight here is the one-hour boat ride—a chance to get incredibly close to hippos and see a wide variety of bird species like fish eagles and cormorants.

Guests have described the boat ride as “refreshing” and “unbelievably close to hippos,” which can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. The boat also offers opportunities to spot fishermen at work and observe local life, adding an authentic touch to the experience. Many travelers appreciate the boat ride for its relaxed pace and scenic views, offering a peaceful contrast to the morning’s game drive.

Following the boat, there’s an optional visit to Crescent Island for a safari walk. While some reviews highlight the experience as “amazing,” it’s worth noting that this part is optional and not included in the tour price. The walk offers an opportunity to view wildlife on foot, which can be a different perspective altogether—though it’s not suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or a fear of walking in wildlife habitats.

Return to Nairobi: A Long but Rewarding Day

After exploring Lake Naivasha, the group departs around late afternoon, aiming to arrive back in Nairobi by approximately 7 pm. The long day allows for plenty of wildlife and scenic experiences, but it’s important to be prepared for a full schedule. The drive back is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps chat about what you’d like to explore further during your stay in Kenya.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Private and Flexible Experience

Having a private tour ensures you’re not rushed or lost in a large group. Your guide can tailor the pace slightly and answer your questions in depth. Guests have mentioned that guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly, making the experience more engaging.

Scenic Highlights and Wildlife Encounters

From the pink flamingos of Lake Nakuru to the hippos and birds on Lake Naivasha, this tour offers a variety of landscapes and animals. One reviewer even mentioned seeing an island where Out of Africa was filmed, along with an eagle hunting—an authentic experience that adds a touch of adventure.

Practical Inclusions

The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and admission tickets to the boat ride. The round-trip hotel transfers mean less hassle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transportation options.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is comprehensive, remember that lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Also, the early start and long hours may not suit everyone, particularly those with limited stamina or tight schedules. It’s best reserved for travelers eager to maximize their day with wildlife and scenic experiences.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This trip offers a balanced blend of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and convenience. The early start and full day might be challenging, but it’s a great way to see two of Kenya’s most iconic lakes without multiple bookings or logistical headaches. The private guide and included boat ride elevate the experience, making it both educational and memorable.

For wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and those craving a taste of Kenya’s Rift Valley, this tour provides excellent value, especially when considering the included activities and transportation. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, yet immersive, outing that showcases Kenya’s natural beauty in one full day.

If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible, and well-organized Kenyan lake adventure, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks, and plenty of curiosity.

FAQs

What time does the tour start? The pickup is at 5:30 am, ideal for early bird wildlife viewing.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides round-trip transfers from your hotel or residence in Nairobi.

Are park fees included? No, the entrance fee to Lake Nakuru National Park is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.

How long is the total tour? Expect a full day, approximately 12 to 14 hours from pickup to return.

Can I do the safari walk on Crescent Island? Yes, it’s an optional activity that you can choose to do after the boat ride.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and your camera.

Is this tour suitable for kids? Most travelers participate, but check with the provider if you have very young children or mobility concerns.

How do I book? Tours are usually booked about 10 days in advance and can be reserved online or through the provider directly.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What makes this tour special? The combination of game viewing, scenic boat rides, and knowledgeable guides makes it a memorable Kenyan experience.

To sum it up, whether you’re a wildlife lover, birdwatcher, or simply eager to see Kenya’s beautiful lakes, this private day tour offers a practical and rewarding way to explore the Rift Valley’s highlights. With stunning scenery, lively animals, and expert guides, it’s an adventure that’s both fun and educational—perfect for making the most of a single day in Kenya.