Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in Kenya’s Rift Valley noted for its islands, birdlife and proximity to horticultural and tourism businesses. It supports a mix of aquatic and shoreline wildlife.

Boat trips to islands such as Crescent Island provide close views of hippos and waterbirds and allow walking among habituated antelope and other wildlife. The lakeshore supports lodges, farms and flower-growing enterprises that have grown around the lake’s water resources.

The lake and its islands have long been used for fishing, grazing and settlement; conservation measures and tourism infrastructure developed in the 20th century to manage competing uses between wildlife and agriculture.

Lake Naivasha lies in the central Rift Valley north-west of Nairobi and is surrounded by farmland, ranches and small towns along the lakeshore.

• Boat access: Boat trips on the lake are the primary way to view hippos and waterbirds; local operators run short excursions from lakeshore towns.
• Local water use: The lake supports both freshwater habitats and nearby farming and horticultural estates that rely on its water resources.

What to See #

• Crescent Island Sanctuary: Crescent Island is a private sanctuary within the lake offering guided walking safaris among habituated wildlife on foot or by boat access.