Lake Naivasha, which means ‘rippling water’ in a local dialect, is the largest freshwater lake along the Kenyan section of the Rift Valley. Dominated by huge umbrella-like acacia trees that surround the terracotta waters of the lake, much of Naivasha’s shores is taken up by huge farms growing cut flowers (mainly carnations and roses) for the international market.
There is plenty to do at the lake and its environs. Fishing is good and there are a number of watersports available, but the main attraction is the bird life, which is best observed on a boat trip on the lake. The nearby Hells Gate National Park is also good for bird watching, especially for large raptors such as Verreaux’s eagle, secretary birds, kori bustards and the rare lammergeyer or bearded vulture.
Located about 1¼ hours drive from Nairobi over the stunning Rift Valley escarpment, a couple of nights during a holiday spent by the tranquil waters of Lake Naivasha provide an ideal introduction to Kenya or, alternatively, an excellent place to relax for a night or two at the end of a safari.
