Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in Kenya’s Rift Valley, its calm waters and surrounding wetlands supporting one of the country’s largest hippo populations alongside prolific birdlife. Unlike many of the region’s soda lakes, Naivasha’s fresh water allows boat trips close to hippo pods and flocks of pelican, fish eagle and kingfisher along the shoreline.

Crescent Island, a private wildlife sanctuary reached by boat, allows visitors to walk on foot among giraffe, zebra and antelope without the presence of large predators, an unusual and popular activity for a lake in this part of Kenya. Fertile land around the lake also supports extensive flower farming, one of the region’s major agricultural industries.

Located within easy road access of Nairobi via the Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha is often combined with Hell’s Gate National Park or Mount Longonot for an active few days away from the capital, blending wildlife viewing with hiking and cycling.