2-Day Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Rift Valley Safari
2-Day Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Rift Valley Safari
Escape the city and discover two of Kenya's most extraordinary Rift Valley lakes on this 2-day safari. Lake Nakuru is famous worldwide for the spectacular flamingo flocks that line its alkaline shores, turning the water pink — and it's also one of Kenya's most important sanctuaries for both black and white rhinos and the critically endangered Rothschild's giraffe.
The second day takes you to the lush, freshwater Lake Naivasha, where hippos doze in the shallows and African fish eagles circle overhead. A boat ride across the lake to Crescent Island offers the unique experience of walking unguided among giraffe, zebra, and wildebeest — no vehicle required.
Ideal for: Birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, first-time Kenya visitors, and travellers looking for a short safari getaway from Nairobi.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi → Lake Nakuru National Park
Depart Nairobi early morning and drive northwest along the Rift Valley escarpment to Lake Nakuru (approximately 2.5 hours). Enter the park and begin a full-day game drive in search of rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, lions, leopards, and the iconic flamingo spectacle along the lakeshore. Stop at Baboon Cliff viewpoint for sweeping panoramic views over the lake and escarpment.
- Flamingo viewing along the alkaline lakeshore
- Black and white rhino sightings in the sanctuary
- Rothschild's giraffe — one of the best places in Africa to see this rare subspecies
- Baboon Cliff panoramic viewpoint
- Lions and leopards in the acacia woodland
- Luxury: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
- Mid-range: Lake Nakuru Lodge, Flamingo Hill Tented Camp
- Budget: Nakuru Town hotels (short drive to park)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Lake Naivasha — Boat Ride & Crescent Island Walk
After breakfast, drive south to Lake Naivasha (approximately 1 hour). Board a traditional boat for a guided lake cruise amongst hippo pods and spectacular waterbirds including African fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants, and kingfishers. Cross to Crescent Island for a guided walking safari — one of the few places in Kenya where you can walk freely among giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and waterbuck. After lunch at a lakeside restaurant, drive back to Nairobi arriving late afternoon.
- Hippo spotting from a traditional boat on Lake Naivasha
- African fish eagle calls echoing across the water
- Crescent Island walking safari with giraffe and zebra
- Over 340 bird species recorded around Lake Naivasha
- Optional Hell's Gate National Park cycling (additional time required)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of Safari
✅ Trip Includes:
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
- 4x4 Safari vehicle with fuel and driver-guide
- Lake Nakuru National Park entrance fees
- Lake Naivasha boat ride and Crescent Island walking safari fees
- Round trip transfers from Nairobi
- Drinking water throughout the trip
❌ Trip Excludes:
- International and domestic flights
- Kenya visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Hell's Gate cycling (optional add-on)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many flamingos will we see at Lake Nakuru?
Flamingo numbers at Lake Nakuru fluctuate seasonally depending on algae levels in the alkaline lake. At peak times, up to 1 million lesser and greater flamingos gather here, creating one of Africa's most spectacular natural displays. Our guides always have up-to-date information on current flamingo concentrations before your visit.
2. Will we see rhinos at Lake Nakuru?
Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya's most important rhino sanctuaries, home to both black and white rhinos. Rhino sightings are common but never guaranteed — your experienced guide will know the best areas to track them. The park's fenced boundaries make it one of the safest rhino habitats in East Africa.
3. Is Lake Naivasha safe for the boat ride?
Yes. Lake Naivasha boat rides are well-established and safe, operated by licensed local boatmen who know the lake intimately. Hippos are viewed at a respectful distance. Life jackets are always provided. The Crescent Island walking safari is also conducted under the supervision of experienced local guides.
4. What is the best time of year to visit?
Both lakes are rewarding year-round. The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) offer the best game drives and clearest roads. However, flamingo populations at Nakuru are highly variable and can be spectacular at any time. The green seasons (November, March–May) bring lush scenery and excellent birdwatching.
5. Can this tour be extended or combined with other safaris?
Absolutely. This Rift Valley safari combines perfectly with the Maasai Mara safari, the Amboseli tour, or a Nairobi city day. You can also extend the Nakuru visit with a third day in Hell's Gate National Park, famous for cycling among wildlife. Contact us to design your ideal Kenya itinerary.
On this tour