
Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha worth booking?
Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha is a 8-hour experience in Nairobi, Kenya, from $40 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 77 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (16)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $40 per person
Hell’s Gate National Park Safaris | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Tours | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip Hell’s Gate National Park is situated in the environs of Lake Naivasha about 90 Kilometers from Nairobi. It was opened in February 1984. The Park is situated 14 Kilometers after the turnoff from the old Nairobi – Naivasha highway. Hell’s Gate or Njorowa Gorge is situated in Nakuru District, Rift Valley Province, covering an Area of 68 square Kilometers. Hell’s Gate National Park provides a variety of wildlife, unusual flora and many species of birds and is one of the two only Kenyan Parks where Climbing, Walking and Biking are allowed. Start and end in Nairobi! With the Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip, you have a full day tour package taking you through Nairobi, Kenya and Hell’s Gate National Park. The Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and so much more.
What you get
About this experience
Hell’s Gate National Park Safaris | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Tours | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip Hell’s Gate National Park is situated in the environs of Lake Naivasha about 90 Kilometers from Nairobi. It was opened in February 1984. The Park is situated 14 Kilometers after the turnoff from the old Nairobi – Naivasha highway. Hell’s Gate or Njorowa Gorge is situated in Nakuru District, Rift Valley Province, covering an Area of 68 square Kilometers. Hell’s Gate National Park provides a variety of wildlife, unusual flora and many species of birds and is one of the two only Kenyan Parks where Climbing, Walking and Biking are allowed. Start and end in Nairobi! With the Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip, you have a full day tour package taking you through Nairobi, Kenya and Hell’s Gate National Park. The Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and so much more.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Bottled water
- Port pickup is available
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Park fees 50 usd Per Adult 25 Usd Per chils
- Boat ride 25 usd per person
- Cycling fees 10 usd Per person
What you'll see and do
Kenya Tours And Safaris
hotel pick up
Pass by without stopping
Hell's Gate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park Safaris | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Tours | Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip Hell’s Gate National Park is situated in the environs of Lake Naivasha about 90 Kilometers from Nairobi. It was opened in February 1984. The Park is situated 14 Kilometers after the turnoff from the old Nairobi – Naivasha highway. Hell’s Gate or Njorowa Gorge is situated in Nakuru District, Rift Valley Province, covering an Area of 68 square Kilometers. Hell’s Gate National Park provides a variety of wildlife, unusual flora and many species of birds and is one of the two only Kenyan Parks where Climbing, Walking and Biking are allowed. Start and end in Nairobi! With the Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip, you have a full day tour package taking you through Nairobi, Kenya and Hell’s Gate National Park. The Hell’s Gate National Park Day Trip includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, transport and so much more.
240 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Walking with animals 3 people
Private Full-Day Tour: Crater Lake Game Sanctuary Pickup included
1Day Walking with animals tour
Full-Day Tour: Crater Lake Game Sanctuary Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Kenya Safaris
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 16 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
10 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
6 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
16 verified traveler reviews for Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent Guide and Stunning Scenery
We decided on this trip for our vacation: The Day Trip to Hell’s Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha. It turned out great and we were quite happy with the over all experience. But...this would not have been possible without the effort of the guide, Mr. Watson. He kept us engaged with stories and information about the area, which made the long drives enjoyable. From Hell’s Gate especially cycling through the park surrounded by wildlife and dramatic rock formations, to the optional boat ride everything is highly recommended. Everything felt peaceful and safe, and filled with bird life and hippos. I will definitely come again, Mr. Watson!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re really glad to hear that your day trip to Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha turned out to be such a great part of your vacation. We’re especially pleased that Watson helped make the journey so enjoyable. His storytelling, knowledge of the area, and ability to keep guests engaged during the drives are exactly what we hope for from our guides, and it’s wonderful to hear this added so much to your experience. Cycling through Hell’s Gate among wildlife and dramatic landscapes, followed by the peaceful boat ride surrounded by hippos and birdlife, really is a special combination—and we’re happy you were able to enjoy it all safely and comfortably. Thank you again for your kind words and recommendation. We truly appreciate it and look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure with Mr. Watson in the future!
via Tripadvisor
A true memorial day out
This was one of the best day trips I’ve ever taken. It was well-planned and full of memorable moments. David the guide, was absolutely fantastic. He made sure everyone was comfortable and explained every part of the journey in a fun and engaging way. Cycling in Hell’s Gate was exciting, especially seeing zebras and antelopes so close without barriers. The optional boat ride added a relaxing touch to the day, with beautiful views and wildlife sightings. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting Kenya.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had one of the best day trips you’ve experienced and that everything felt well-planned and memorable. We’re especially happy that David helped make the day so enjoyable. His ability to keep guests comfortable while sharing information in an engaging way is exactly what we aim for in our guides, and it’s great to know he contributed so positively to your experience. Cycling through Hell’s Gate National Park really is a unique experience, and we’re glad you enjoyed seeing zebras and antelopes up close in such an open and natural setting. We’re also pleased that the boat ride on Lake Naivasha added a relaxing and scenic finish to your day. Thank you again for your kind recommendation. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Kenya!
via Tripadvisor
Incredible Wildlife and Scenery Views
I was truly amazed by the Day Trip to Hell’s Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha. The landscapes were beyond beautiful, with towering cliffs, valleys, and open plains full of wildlife. We had an amazing guide, David, who was outstanding throughout the journey. He shared interesting facts about the formation of the Rift Valley and pointed out animals we would have easily missed. Hell’s Gate was especially exciting because we were allowed to get close to wildlife in a safe environment. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha was peaceful and offered close encounters with hippos and fish eagles. Everything ran smoothly, and I felt well taken care of the entire time.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience on your day trip to Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha. It’s great to know that the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife made such a lasting impression. We’re especially pleased that David helped make your journey even more memorable by sharing his knowledge about the Great Rift Valley and ensuring you didn’t miss any of the incredible wildlife along the way. We’re glad you enjoyed the freedom of exploring Hell’s Gate up close and that the peaceful boat ride on Lake Naivasha, with its hippos and fish eagles, was a highlight of your day. It’s also wonderful to hear that everything ran smoothly and that you felt well taken care of throughout the trip. Thank you again for your kind words and recommendation. We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in Kenya!
via Tripadvisor
Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation
This tour was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The Day Trip to Hell’s Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha gave us a chance to experience Kenya’s natural beauty in a very unique way. Our guide David was excellent - punctual, patient, and very informative. He explained everything clearly and gave us enough time to enjoy each stop without rushing. Cycling through Hell’s Gate was thrilling, especially passing through dramatic cliffs and wildlife up close. The optional boat ride was calm and refreshing, with stunning views and plenty of hippos and birds. I appreciated how David managed the group so well. This is definitely a must-do experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation on your day trip to Hell’s Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha. We’re especially pleased that David helped make your experience so memorable. His punctuality, patience, and knowledge are qualities we truly value, and we’re glad he made sure everyone had plenty of time to enjoy each stop at a comfortable pace. It’s great to know you enjoyed cycling through the spectacular landscapes of Hell’s Gate and that the peaceful boat ride on Lake Naivasha, with its hippos and abundant birdlife, was a highlight of your day. Thank you for your kind recommendation and for recognizing David’s efforts in making the trip run so smoothly. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in Kenya!
via Tripadvisor
An Unforgettable Rift Valley Experience
Our Day Trip to Hell’s Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha was absolutely unforgettable from start to finish. Everything was well organized, and our guide David made the entire journey smooth and enjoyable. He was knowledgeable about the geography, wildlife, and history of the Rift Valley, which made the drive feel like part of the adventure. Hell’s Gate was breathtaking, especially cycling through the park surrounded by zebras and giraffes roaming freely. The optional boat ride at Lake Naivasha was peaceful and magical, with close encounters with hippos and many bird species. David ensured everyone felt safe and included, and his friendly personality made a big difference. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Kenya.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re delighted to hear that your safari was such a memorable experience and a perfect way to explore Nairobi’s incredible wildlife in a short amount of time. It’s wonderful that you were able to see such a variety of animals, including rhinos, lions, and antelopes, and even catch a rare glimpse of a leopard in the distance—that’s always a special moment on safari. We’re especially pleased that Nathan made such a strong impression. His knowledge of the park, communication with other guides, and calm, friendly approach are exactly what we aim for, and we’re glad he helped you make the most of every opportunity. Thank you for highlighting the unique contrast between the city skyline and the wild landscape—it truly is something that makes Nairobi National Park one of a kind. We really appreciate your kind recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable safari in Kenya!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $40 to $113
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Kenya Safaris, who run 6 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 70.6.
See everything Kenya Safaris runsWhy this scores 77
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Nairobi.
How much does Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha cost?
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Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Nairobi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Nairobi is not rushed.
Is Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Nairobi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Nairobi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Nairobi and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Nairobi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Nairobi?
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On Outty we rank every Nairobi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Wild 5-Day Safari: Magical Mara, Nakuru Wonders & Hell's Gate, 2 Days Amboseli Safari using a 4x4 Landcruiser jeep(with options), Kibera Slum Tour with Lucas. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Nairobi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Nairobi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; Bottled water; and Port pickup is available. Not included: Food and drinks; Park fees 50 usd Per Adult 25 Usd Per chils; Boat ride 25 usd per person; and Cycling fees 10 usd Per person. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 646 listed pickup locations in and around Nairobi. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Nairobi. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, the guide, organization. The views and photo stops come up again and again.
What booking options are available for Day Trip to Hell's Gate & Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Walking with animals 3 people, 1Day Walking with animals tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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