KENYA DESTINATIONS
Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha
Two Rift Valley lakes that fit perfectly between Nairobi and the Masai Mara: Lake Nakuru for rhinos, and Lake Naivasha for hippos and a boat ride.
Why go
Lake Nakuru National Park is a fenced rhino sanctuary, one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos. Nearby Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake where you can take a boat among hippos and fish eagles, and walk among giraffes and zebras on Crescent Island.
- Black and white rhinos, plus Rothschild’s giraffes and lions at Nakuru
- Flamingos and pelicans (numbers vary with the lake level)
- Hippo-watching boat rides on Lake Naivasha
- Walking safari on Crescent Island and cycling in Hell’s Gate
When to go
Good all year. Both lakes are easy stops on the way to or from the Masai Mara.
Getting there and how long to stay
Nakuru is about 3 hours from Nairobi, and Naivasha about 2 hours. One night at either works well.
Safaris that visit the Rift Valley lakes
Build your own route
Combine any parks, lodges and pace.
Ready to plan your Kenya safari?
Tell us your dates and how you like to travel. We’ll reply with a tailored itinerary and price.