Lake Naivasha

Perfect for a sunset boat safari, where hippos are just a few meters away! Additionally, Lake Naivasha is a world-class birdwatching location, less than a two-hour drive from Nairobi. Therefore, it is the ideal weekend getaway for Kenyans!

What can you see and do?

The banks of this large (139 km2) freshwater lake are a green oasis full of wildlife: giraffes, waterbucks, zebras, buffalos, crocodiles and, above all, many hippos! Bird lovers will also find plenty to enjoy here. Lake Naivasha or nearby Lake Oloiden are perfect for a floating boat safari with the sun on your head. Don't forget your factor 50!

Horse riding among the wild animals

After an intense car ride you'll arrive at the Sanctuary Farm, a unique little paradise where horse riding enthusiasts can indulge themselves. Not only experienced horse riders are welcome here, beginners can also take their first ride here safely and easily. The Angels mount their steeds and begin this unprecedented adventure. The wildlife does not seem to recognize them as people on their four-legged friends, allowing them to get even closer to the animals than normal. Our Angels soon discover that this does not apply to the large, muscular water buffalos and nowadays, even with drops of sweat on their foreheads, they drive around them with a wide berth. Spot giraffes, zebras, water buffalos, wildebeest and impalas while the horses walk zigzagging between them. Beginners ride relaxed behind their guide, while more experienced riders can use the jumping course! Not a horse fan? Don't worry! You can also enjoy beautiful walks here.

Where can you sleep at Lake Naivasha?

There are beautiful accommodations around Lake Naivasha with views over the lake or the Great Rift Valley. Plenty of options in this area! If you choose a cottage with a view over Lake Naivasha, you don't even have to go on the water to spot hippos. They stroll around quietly in front of you! So be careful not to get too close: they may look cute and chubby, but they have very strong jaws! The black and white Colobus Monkey also shows itself regularly.

The Sanctuary Farm

After an adventure on the back of the horse, you can enjoy a fantastic stay at the Sanctuary Farm. Choose to camp basic in a safari tent with beds or stay more luxuriously in one of the rooms. In 2012, the stables were converted into luxury ensuite accommodation with a private veranda, overlooking Lake Naivasha. There is a shared living room with a fireplace and an overstuffed bookcase filled with countless books. Even WiFi is available, so you can connect with those at home and share all your special adventures. In the morning, fresh tea and coffee are served while you wake up peacefully on your veranda. Here and there you see some cows walking around the farm. They are milked by hand twice a day. Guests are more than welcome to roll up their sleeves and grab the bull by the horns (read: udders).

Francis Erskine, a man with a huge passion for horses and polo, bought Sanctuary Farm in 1970. He built a clubhouse, stables and polo field. The 'Club House' now serves as a delicious, organic restaurant for lunch and dinner. Would you like to eat here? Don't forget to make a reservation in advance. The food is served in a delicious buffet format. Everything is super fresh and while you eat you enjoy a beautiful view of grazing hippos and giraffes in the meadow. When our Angels were completely satiated and thought the buffet was over, they were surprised with a delicious cheese board for dessert! Of course, this made the real cheeseheads very happy.

What else does Lake Naivasha area have to offer?

You can combine a visit to Lake Naivasha with a lunch or overnight stay at Elsamere. This is where the story of George and Joy Adams took place. A colonial couple who adopted a lion: Elsa. The film Born Free (1966) is based on this (book) story. Still have some time left in your busy schedule? Then visit the nearby Hells Gate Park and go on a cycling safari, walk through the canyons or climb one of the rocks and admire the park from a bird's eye view.

The Sanctuary Farm is the ideal base for various day trips. Pull out your sporty shoes and climb Mount Longonot, or exchange your horse for the steel steed and take a wonderful bike ride through Hell's Gate National Park. A little less active? Game driving in Nakuru National Park is also highly recommended! Or take it easy and relax by the pool, listening to a wide range of birds passing by.

Don't feel like leaving the Farm? That's not necessary! You can easily have a sweet time here, in the middle of nature. Crescent Island is within walking distance. This island offers beautiful 360° views of Lake Naivasha. Cars are not allowed and with a guide you can take beautiful walks here.

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We know it from the farthest corners, and that results in amazing trips. We put them together by venturing out there ourselves. Believe us, you won't find these experiences anywhere else!

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Lake Naivasha

What can you see and do?

Horse riding among the wild animals