Lake Naivasha Day Tour Including the Crescent Island

Just 56 miles from Nairobi, the Lake Naivasha Day Tour offers an unforgettable adventure into Kenya’s natural beauty. Featuring a guided wildlife walk, scenic boat ride, and the chance to spot hippos, giraffes, and zebras, the tour culminates at Crescent Island Game Park – a serene wildlife reserve where visitors can interact with diverse species in a vehicle-free environment. With rave reviews from nature enthusiasts, this day trip promises an immersive experience that will leave you captivated and eager to explore more of Kenya’s stunning landscapes.

Good To Know

• A day tour from Nairobi to Lake Naivasha, including a guided wildlife walk, boat ride, and visit to Crescent Island Game Park to spot hippos, giraffes, and diverse bird species.
• Stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and tranquil setting of Lake Naivasha enhance the overall wildlife safari experience.
• Crescent Island Game Park offers a serene, vehicle-free environment for intimate interactions with giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests during guided walking tours.
• Tour pricing starts at $102.57 per person, with additional fees for the boat ride and Crescent Island entrance, providing excellent value for the diverse wildlife encounters.
• The tour includes pickup from Nairobi hotels or the airport, with a maximum group size of 7 travelers for a personalized experience, though moderate physical fitness is required.

Overview of the Tour

On a day tour from Nairobi, travelers can explore the picturesque Lake Naivasha, located just 56 miles away. The tour includes a stop at the Great Rift Valley, offering stunning photo opportunities.

It’s a full-day experience, providing wildlife encounters throughout. Operated by Tours and Holidays Africa, the tour promises an immersive experience in the region’s natural splendor.

The tour highlights include a guided wildlife walk, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha for game viewing, and a visit to Crescent Island Game Park, known for its diverse animal population.

Travelers can expect to see a variety of wildlife, such as hippos, giraffes, zebras, and a wide array of bird species.

Highlights of the Day

The tour provides a range of thrilling highlights for visitors. A guided wild game walk led by a ranger offers the chance to observe wildlife up close.

Gliding across the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha on a boat ride provides ample opportunities to spot hippos, giraffes, zebras, and an abundance of bird species.

The Crescent Island Game Park, known for its diverse fauna, is a must-visit destination where guests can enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

From the stunning landscapes of the Great Rift Valley to the captivating wildlife encounters, this day tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Exploring Lake Naivasha

Situated in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake renowned for its diverse wildlife and captivating natural beauty.

The lake’s calm waters are home to a thriving population of hippos, while the surrounding shores and nearby islands host an array of bird species.

A boat ride on the lake offers visitors an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures, as well as the opportunity to spot giraffes, zebras, and other animals that come to drink at the lake’s edge.

Cruising across the glassy surface, travelers can enjoy the tranquil and picturesque setting of this natural wonder.

Crescent Island Game Park

Nestled within the confines of Lake Naivasha, Crescent Island Game Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a private wildlife reserve teeming with diverse species.

Spanning over 4 square miles, the island is home to a variety of animals, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and a wide array of bird life.

Visitors can embark on a guided walking tour, allowing them to get up close and personal with the resident wildlife.

The park’s tranquil setting and lack of vehicles provide a serene and immersive experience, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts on the Lake Naivasha day tour.

Wildlife Sightings and Encounters

During the Lake Naivasha day tour, visitors are treated to an array of wildlife sightings and close-up encounters.

Led by knowledgeable rangers, guests embark on a guided walk through the stunning Crescent Island Game Park. Here, they’re likely to spot graceful giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species.

The highlight, however, is the boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where travelers can observe hippos lounging in the water and other aquatic creatures up close.

With the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley, this safari-style experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Kenya’s natural wonders.

Tour Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts at $102.57 per person, which covers the fuel surcharge, bottled water, hotel pickup and drop-off, and lunch.

However, there are a few additional fees to be aware of:

• The boat ride on Lake Naivasha costs approximately 4,500 KES.
• Entrance to the Crescent Island costs $30 for adults and $15 for children.

These extra costs provide access to some of the tour’s key highlights, allowing visitors to fully experience the wildlife and natural beauty of the region.

Tour Logistics and Requirements

Typically, the tour picks up guests from any hotel in Nairobi or the nearby airport. The tour group size is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, a moderate level of physical fitness is required to participate. Visitors should note that the entrance fees to Crescent Island aren’t included in the tour price and need to be paid separately.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure, providing flexibility for travelers. The logistics and requirements of the Lake Naivasha day tour cater to a wide range of visitors seeking a memorable wildlife encounter.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

According to the reviews, visitors have overwhelmingly positive experiences on the Lake Naivasha day tour.

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides who provide valuable insights during the wildlife encounters.

The tour’s highlights are frequently cited, including:

1. Spotting a diverse array of wildlife, such as hippos, giraffes, and zebras, during the guided game walk and boat ride.
2. Stunning views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Naivasha’s picturesque landscapes.
3. The opportunity to explore the Crescent Island Game Park and its thriving ecosystem.

While some reviewers note additional costs for the boat ride and park entrance, the overall consensus is that the Lake Naivasha day tour offers excellent value and an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Customers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the tour price doesn’t include them. The tour package covers hotel pickup/drop-off, a guide, and lunch, so additional snacks or beverages are optional.

What Type of Camera Equipment Is Recommended?

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing close-up shots of the wildlife on this tour. Compact cameras can also work, but a zoom lens will provide better results.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for travelers in moderate physical condition. Children are welcome, though the boat ride and Crescent Island entry fees may be an additional cost for them.

Can I Book Private or Customized Tours?

Yes, private or customized tours are available. The tour operator, Tours and Holidays Africa, offers flexible options to accommodate individual needs and preferences for the Lake Naivasha day tour from Nairobi.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Activity During the Tour?

The tour allocates about 1-2 hours for the guided wildlife walk, 45-60 minutes for the boat ride, and 1-2 hours to explore Crescent Island. The rest of the day is spent traveling between sites and having lunch.

The Sum Up

The Lake Naivasha Day Tour, including the Crescent Island, offers a captivating opportunity to take in Kenya’s natural wonders. From the serene boat ride to the vehicle-free encounters with diverse wildlife, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts seeking an intimate connection with the region’s remarkable ecosystem. With convenient logistics and rave reviews, it’s a must-consider day trip for visitors to Nairobi.