2-day Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha
Embark on a captivating 2-day safari exploring two of Kenya's most stunning lakes. Begin at Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its breathtaking flocks of flamingos and diverse wildlife. Then, venture to the tranquil shores of Lake Naivasha, home to hippos, vibrant birdlife, and the unique Crescent Island sanctuary. This tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and optional adventure activities.
Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru
Day 2: Nakuru to Naivasha, then to Nairobi
Activities:
* Game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park
* Flamingo viewing at Lake Nakuru
* Boat safari on Lake Naivasha
* Nature walk on Crescent Island
Optional activities: Bird watching, hiking Mount Longonot, visiting a Maasai village, or exploring Hell's Gate National Park (additional cost)
Optional Travel Upgrade:
Travel Between Parks with Light Aircraft: For a seamless and time-efficient experience, consider upgrading your transportation between parks with a scenic light aircraft flight. This option offers breathtaking aerial views of the Kenyan landscape and significantly reduces travel time, allowing you to maximize your time on safari.
Wildlife & Scenic Highlights:
Lake Nakuru National Park: Flamingos, rhinos (both black and white), lions, leopards, Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes, waterbucks, zebras, and a plethora of bird species, including pelicans, eagles, and storks.
Lake Naivasha: Hippos, African fish eagles, cormorants, pelicans, herons, kingfishers, and a variety of other water birds.
Crescent Island: Zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, gazelles, and numerous bird species.
Scenic Landscapes: The picturesque landscapes of the Rift Valley, acacia forests, the shimmering waters of Lake Nakuru, the volcanic Mount Longonot, and the lush green shores of Lake Naivasha.
Itinerary
Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park (Approx. 3-4 hours drive)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Departure from Nairobi: Your professional driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel/residence in Nairobi. Ensure you have had breakfast or grab a quick takeaway. A brief welcome and safari briefing will be conducted during the initial part of the drive.
- Mid-morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Scenic Drive to Lake Nakuru: The drive takes you northwest, passing through scenic landscapes and agricultural areas. You'll descend into the Great Rift Valley, offering stunning views.
- Late Morning (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Check-in and Lunch (Optional): Depending on your chosen accommodation, you may check in first or proceed directly to a restaurant for lunch near the park.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park: Enter Lake Nakuru National Park and begin your game drive. While the large flamingo flocks are not always present (their presence depends on water levels and algae growth), the park is a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. It's also a great place for birdwatching, even without the mass flamingo gatherings.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Check-in and Relaxation: Check in to your chosen accommodation near Lake Nakuru. Allow time to freshen up and relax after the game drive.
- Evening (6:00 PM Onwards): Dinner and Overnight: Enjoy dinner at your lodge/camp.
Accommodation Suggestions (Near Lake Nakuru):
- Luxury: The Cliff Nakuru, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
- Mid-Range: Flamingo Hill Tented Camp
- Budget-Friendly: Several budget hotels and guesthouses are available in Nakuru town.
Day 2: Lake Nakuru to Lake Naivasha, then to Nairobi (Approx. 2-3 hours driving total)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Early Morning Activity (Optional): If you wish, you can have an early morning game drive in Lake Nakuru for a final chance to spot wildlife. Alternatively, you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your accommodation.
- Breakfast (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Breakfast and Check-out: Enjoy breakfast and check out of your accommodation.
- Late Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Drive to Lake Naivasha: Drive to Lake Naivasha, a relatively short drive.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha: Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. This is a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching and getting close to hippos.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Lunch at Lake Naivasha: Have lunch at a restaurant overlooking the lake.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Drive back to Nairobi: Begin the drive back to Nairobi.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Arrival in Nairobi and Drop-off: Arrive back in Nairobi and your driver/guide will drop you off at your hotel/residence or at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for your onward flight.
Important Notes:
- This is a sample itinerary and can be customized.
- Driving times are estimates and depend on road conditions and traffic, especially in Nairobi.
- It is recommended to book your safari in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack appropriate clothing for varying weather, including warm layers (especially for early mornings and evenings), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.