Nairobi: Hell's Gate Day Trip and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
Active
11h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is unique because it combines water-based, cycling, walking, and wildlife experiences in a single day, something few destinations in Kenya offer. Tourists begin with a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, allowing close, uninterrupted viewing of hippos and prolific birdlife—an experience that contrasts sharply with traditional vehicle-only game drives. The transition to Hell’s Gate National Park then introduces a rare opportunity to cycle or walk inside a national park, moving at ground level among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes with no large predators present. The guided walk through Hell’s Gate Gorge, with its geothermal steam vents, towering cliffs, and volcanic formations, adds a strong adventure and geological dimension not found in most safari circuits. Scenic Rift Valley landscapes, hands-on activities, and lunch at a lakeside hotel complete a highly interactive, multi-sensory day trip that blends nature, adventure, and scenery rather than passive sightseeing alone.
Available options
Shared Day Trip
Duration: 10 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transportation
Pick up and Drop off
Time for Lunch (own expense)
Bottled water
Driver/Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel or residence in Nairobi and enjoy a scenic drive along the Nairobi–Nakuru highway through the Great Rift Valley, stopping briefly at a panoramic viewpoint for photography and refreshments. On arrival at Lake Naivasha mid-morning, tourists will board a guided boat for a relaxed safari across the freshwater lake. During the cruise, you will watch hippos surfacing close to the boat, observe African fish eagles swooping down to catch fish, and identify pelicans, cormorants, herons, and other water birds along the shoreline. Your guide will explain the lake’s ecosystem, bird migration patterns, and the relationship between wildlife and surrounding communities. After the boat ride, you will disembark and enjoy time at the lakeshore, taking photos, stretching your legs, and appreciating the calm scenery before heading for lunch at Lake Naivasha Crescent Hotel, where you can relax and dine overlooking the lake.
2
Stop 2
After lunch, drive to Hell’s Gate National Park and receive a short briefing at the main gate on park rules, safety, and activities. Inside the park, tourists will experience one of Kenya’s most interactive parks by choosing to cycle through the open plains or enjoy a guided game drive. As you move through the park, you will see zebras, giraffes, warthogs, gazelles, and buffaloes roaming freely without predators. Continue to Hell’s Gate Gorge, where you will take a guided walk through dramatic rock formations, narrow canyons, geothermal steam vents, and hot springs while learning about volcanic activity and local geology. You will stop at iconic landmarks such as Fischer’s Tower and the Central Tower for photography and short nature walks. After completing the activities, exit the park in the afternoon and begin your return drive to Nairobi, arriving in the early evening.
What's not included
Boat ride
Gratitudes
Entry fee to Hell's Gate
Bike hiring
Cycling
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
3 reviews
5★
1
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
25 reviews
5★
22
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code is smart casual
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
About Naivasha
Naivasha is a vibrant town nestled on the shores of Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake in Kenya's Rift Valley. Known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vibrant agriculture, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. The town is a gateway to Hell's Gate National Park and is famous for its flower farms and geothermal energy production.
Top Attractions
Hell's Gate National Park
A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and diverse wildlife. It's famous for its hiking, rock climbing, and biking trails.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
KES 800-1,500
Lake Naivasha
A beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush landscapes and wildlife. Ideal for boat rides, picnics, and bird watching.
Nature/Relaxation
Half day
KES 1,000-3,000
Crater Lake Game Sanctuary
A private game sanctuary offering close-up encounters with wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and various bird species.
Nature/Wildlife
Half day
KES 1,500-3,000
Mount Longonot
An extinct volcano offering a challenging hike with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Adventure/Nature
Full day
KES 1,000-2,000
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned with local spices.
Main Course
Contains meat, can be spicy
Ugali
A staple food made from maize flour, often served with stews or vegetables.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Sukuma Wiki
Collard greens cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock Climbing
Biking
Wildlife Safaris
Boat Rides
Picnics
Bird Watching
Spa Treatments
Best Time to Visit
June to October, January to February
These months offer the best weather with clear skies and minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Swahili
- Widely spoken: English, Swahili, Local dialects
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Naivasha is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty crime and scams. Be cautious in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport • 90 km
By bus
Naivasha Bus Station, Kenya Bus Service (KBS) Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded. Routes are well-known and widely used by locals and tourists alike.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Boda Boda
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Lake Naivasha Area
Hell's Gate Area
Day trips
Mount Longonot
32 km • Full day
An extinct volcano offering a challenging hike with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Hells Gate National Park
14 km • Half day to full day
A stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal activity, and diverse wildlife. It's famous for its hiking, rock climbing, and biking trails.
Lake Naivasha Boat Safaris
In town • Half day
A beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by lush landscapes and wildlife. Ideal for boat rides, picnics, and bird watching.
Festivals
Naivasha Cultural Festival • Annual, typically in July
Flower Festival • Annual, typically in September
Pro tips
- Visit Hell's Gate National Park early in the morning for the best wildlife viewing and to avoid the midday heat
- Book a guided boat tour on Lake Naivasha for a closer encounter with the lake's wildlife and scenic beauty
- Carry plenty of water and snacks when hiking or exploring national parks
- Use reputable tour operators and guides for a safe and enjoyable experience
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
