About Destination
Lake Naivasha is believed to be between 6000 to 13,000 years old and was part of a much larger lake that encompassed the present lakes Elementaita and Nakuru, and discarded down the Rift Valley southwards.
The lake is an overflow of beauty with tranquil surroundings dboasting a variety of wild animals and bird species. The forest surrounding the lake is home to over 400 bird species, making it the perfect destination for birdies from all corners of the world. The principal water supply to the lake is from Aberdare Mountains. Two rivers drain these areas and enter the lake. The Malewa river has a catchment of 1,730km2 and provides 90% of the inflow.
Lake Naivasha was designated as a RAMSAR site in 1995 and is managed by the local property owners under the Lake Naivasha Riparian Association formed in 1934. The lake provides diverse habitats for a variety of mammals, birds, and fish (tilapia, black bass, and crayfish). The fishery is conducted for both domestic and commercial purposes.
Tourism is also a major sector in the lake and its catchment basin. The lake environment is fragile but dynamic and supports tourism and geothermal power generation from deep-rooted stream jets among other economic activities. The rich flora around Lake Naivasha attracts a variety of animals that include buffalo, antelope, giraffe, warthog, and monkey, and you will almost certainly catch sight of hippos lazily watching proceedings from the cooling water.
There are many activities to enjoy while seeing the beauty of your surroundings. Taking a boat safari is undoubtedly the most popular attraction at Lake. The Crescent Island Sanctuary offers a rare chance to walk with the animals. The sanctuary isn't home to any predators, so you can safely trade the safari car for your own two feet as you wander alongside zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest!
The opportunity to hike a dormant volcano, Mount Longonot, might be too hard to resist! The relatively challenging 4-5 hour hike to ascend the crater of Mount Longonot takes you through land inhabited by buffalos and antelopes.