There are so many things to do in Naivasha, making it a perfect destination for every traveler.

The town is known for its wildlife spots, flower farms, luxury lodges, and tourist attractions. It’s also popular with locals and ex-pats as the ultimate partying destination in Kenya.

Whether you plan to visit Naivasha as a pit stop on your way to Maasai Mara or for a short holiday, you’ll find unique experiences.

Flanked by lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, campsites, and game parks, it offers spectacular sights and places to visit. It’s also perfect for a weekend trip and a fun adventure.

Best Things To Do in Naivasha

Naivasha is a unique tourist destination with attractions for all types of travelers. It’s also located close to Nairobi, making it an excellent place for a day trip.

If you’re ready for an adventure, here’s a list of the top things to do in Naivasha, Kenya.

1. Take a Walk Through History

Naivasha town has welcomed visitors since the end of the 19th century. Encouraged by the colonial administration, wealthy Europeans arrived to farm fertile lands around the lake.

Later, a new breed of visitors joined the settlers, and the Happy Valley set legend was born. The set notoriously indulged in orgies of hedonism such as gambling, drugs, alcohol, and erotic games.

Then the era of Imperial Airways flying boats reached Kenya. These remarkable machines landed on Lake Naivasha on their way to Cape Town bringing in more tourists.

Visiting places like the La Belle Inn Hotel and Lake Naivasha Country Club can help you unfold these pieces of history. Also, don’t forget to see the works of Joy Adamson of the “born free” fame at the Elsamere Conservation Center.

2. Bike in the Wild at Hell’s Gate

When you think of Hell’s Gate, the image that immediately comes to mind is breathtaking landscapes and cycling past wildlife. This national park is just that, and so much more.

During my three months living in Naivasha, I visited the park almost every weekend. Its uniqueness attracted me, and writing this article makes me want to head back there.

Although you can do a game drive, cycling in the park is highly recommended. It brings you closer to nature in ways you can’t imagine.

Bike rides start from the main gate (Elsa Gate) and run for about 7 km to the Ol-Jorwa gorge. You’ll spot the Fisher’s Tower, rock cliffs, wildlife, and many bird species along the way.

If you’d like to spend more time in the park, there are several self-catering campsites to choose from. My favorites are Naiburta, and Endachata.

3. A Boat Trip on Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in Kenya on the Great Rift Valley floor. It’s a short distance from Naivasha town along the Moi South Lake road.

The lake is an overflow of tranquility and beauty, decorated with various wildlife, bird species, campsites, and dining spots to enjoy.

A boat trip on the lake will treat you to the sights of hippos and birds and will also take you to Cresent Island – a great wildlife sanctuary.

After the boat ride, take time to explore the shoreline. Here you’ll have the chance to interact with locals and sample their delicious food.

4. Take a Boat Ride to Crescent Island

Crescent Island is a little paradise on Lake Naivasha’s east side. Often referred to as “Naivasha’s best-kept secret,” the game sanctuary is nothing less.

The private island is perfect for bird watching, wildlife viewing, and nature walking. Boat trips on Lake Naivasha provide a close view of the island and sights of resident wild animals like hippos, zebras, and giraffes.

Please note that the sanctuary is only accessible by boat which costs around $30 for a round trip.

5. Hike to The Top of Mount Longonot

If you enjoy hiking as much as we do, spare a day and go hiking at Mount Longonot National Park. The trail is well marked and takes about 5 hours to complete.

The main attraction in the park is the hike up to the mountaintop and around the rim of the crater. It offers breathtaking views of Lake Naivasha, the Great Rift Valley, and nearby hills.

We’ve hiked Mount Longonot more than any other hiking trail in Kenya. We recommend starting the hike early, carrying around 3 liters of water, and taking short breaks along the way.

The Kenya Wildlife Service manages Mount Longonot National Park, and you can check the latest entrance fees on their website.

6. Explore Naivasha Town’s Nightlife

Naivasha is a symbol of fun and adventure. Thanks to the pace set by the Happy Valley set, the town is a center of all-night partying, drinking, and dancing.

During weekends, it’s a playground for locals and residents. Revealers take road trips, especially from Nairobi, giving the town added life at night.

There’s a common phrase in Kenya, “Twende Vasha.” It translates to “Let’s go to Naivasha”; a call to leave the capital behind and head to the party town. The best clubs in “Vasha” include Bubbles Lounge and Skylux Club.

7. Visit the Elsamere Conservation Center

Located along the shores of Lake Naivasha, Elsamere is a lodge and conservation center. It’s the former home of the legendary George and Joy Adamson, who spent most of their life advocating for wildlife conservation in Kenya.

The couple is famous for raising Elsa, an orphaned lion, and re-introducing her into the wild. Today, Elsamere is a pleasant lodge run by the Elsa Trust, offering accommodation in cottages with a homely atmosphere and good food.

It also has a study center that provides conservation programs for tourists, schools, and community groups.

If you’re interested in wildlife conservation and learning about the works of Joy Adamson, a visit to this center is a must. You’ll also learn about her projects in other game parks in Kenya like Meru, Kora, and Samburu.

8. Swim at the Olkaria Geothermal Spa

The Olkaria Geothermal Spa is situated within the Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s a nice place to take a warm dip after a long day in the wild. The spa offers therapeutic swimming in a pool that can accommodate up to 400 people with water temperatures between 30°C and 40°C.

Besides the relaxing effect water naturally provides, this particular pool also contains sulfur which is believed to have many healing effects. Visitors can also enjoy delicious meals at the cafeteria, and sundowners at the bar.

It’s the perfect spot to spend at least half a day unwinding, (particularly if you’ve already covered some ground at Hell’s Gate or taken a hike!).

9. Visit the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary

Crater Lake is a small alkaline lake located at the bottom of an extinct volcano on the western side of Lake Naivasha. It lies within a private game sanctuary that attracts a variety of animals and birds.

Visitors can explore the game sanctuary on foot and spot wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and bird species like the impressive flamingos. A nature walk around the rim of the crater takes about 2 hours.

While it’s possible to do it alone, it’s recommended that travelers get a guide or join a tour from their campsite or lodge.

10. Go Wine Tasting at Morendat Farm

A trip to Kenya is not always about wildlife safaris, adventures, nightlife, and cultural experiences. There are several other things to do and see in the country. One such activity is wine tasting.

Yes, that’s right, wine! Located in Morendat Farm, Leleshwa is the first of its kind in Kenya. When the owner moved to the country almost 30 years ago, nothing pointed to a winery.

However, James Farquharson saw an opportunity and began growing vines on Morendat Farm, which overlooks Mt. Longonot. Today, Leleshwa is an award-winning winery that’s popular with its four brands – Merlot Shiraz, Leleshwa Rose, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chenin Blanc.

If you’re looking for romantic places to visit in Naivasha, I recommend heading to Leleshwa Winery. You can share a wine-tasting experience, take a farm tour, or relax with a glass of well-chilled Leleshwa Rose.

11. Hike the Beautiful Ol Doinyo Eburru

Eburru Forest is one of my favorite hiking destinations in Kenya. Unlike popular trails like Mt. Longonot, it’s less crowded and offers a genuine connection with nature.

This indigenous forest is nestled within the folds of Ol Doinyo Eburru mountain, whose highest point is 2,820 meters above sea level.

From the forest gate, the Eburru hiking trail leads you through dry lands and a thick forest to contrasting valleys and steep ridges. Along the way, you’ll come across crystal clear streams and a waterfall.

The final ascent leads you to a ridge that offers incredible views of Lake Naivasha and the Great Rift Valley. If you plan on exploring hidden gems in Naivasha, don’t miss this fantastic forest hike.

12. Camp and Dine at Camp Carnelly’s

Camp Carnelley’s is our favorite place to camp in Naivasha. It’s conveniently located close to the lake and other places to visit, like Hell’s Gate National Park.

Besides camping grounds, they have a nice restaurant which serves excellent meals and drinks. They also offer activities like boat riding, fishing, and bird watching.

If you’re looking for a tranquil place to relax on a budget, stay at Carnelley’s. You can also make it your base for exploring other Naivasha tourist sites.

13. Eat Fish at Karagita Beach

Karagita Beach is the most popular launching point for boat trips on Lake Naivasha. This public “beach” attracts many travelers (mostly locals), especially during weekends.

The beach is free to visit and offers a spectacular view of the lake and a chance to engage with locals. If you’re feeling peckish, and fancy trying the best-fried fish in Naivasha, this is the place to find it.

However, don’t be fooled by the word “beach”. Karagita is not all white sands and sunbeds. It’s a small center along the marshy shores of Lake Naivasha.

14. Take Horseback Safaris at The Sanctuary Farm

The Sanctuary Farm is a pleasant surprise. Unlike in Hell’s Gate, where you only spot animals from a distance, you can get up close and personal with the wildlife here.

You can choose to explore the sanctuary on foot or on horseback. Either way, you’ll have beautiful encounters with zebras, giraffes, gazelles, and wildebeests.

The charming farmhouse inside the sanctuary is also an excellent base for your trip to Naivasha. It’s perfect for a weekend getaway for families or small groups.

15. Explore Lake Oloiden

Lake Oloiden is a flamingo paradise that offers some of the best camping experiences in Naivasha. Several flower farms also surround it.

If you fancy floriculture, take a tour of one of the farms to get a unique Kenyan experience. Trips to these farms are free and can be arranged from your accommodation facility.

Visitors to Lake Oloiden have many options for places to stay. Besides the Oloiden Camp (our favorite), there’s also the Kongoni Lodge and the popular Hippo Point.