Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 20 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi worth booking?
Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi is a 12-hour experience in Nairobi, Kenya, from $48 per person. It scores 76 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 20 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 76 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (20)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $48 per person
This day trip to Lake Nakuru National Park stands out for its perfect blend of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and convenience from Nairobi. It offers a rare opportunity to experience Kenya’s natural beauty in just one day, without the need for an overnight stay. The drive through the Great Rift Valley showcases breathtaking views, while Lake Nakuru’s shimmering waters attract flocks of flamingos and pelicans, creating a photographer’s paradise. Beyond its birdlife, the park is one of Kenya’s best places to see both white and black rhinos up close, along with lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. The visit to Baboon Cliff provides unmatched panoramic views, and a stop at Makalia Falls adds a refreshing touch of nature and serenity. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a rich safari experience packed with wildlife, scenic beauty, and adventure — all in one unforgettable day. Lake Naivasha also has different types of birds and water animals.
What you get
About this experience
This day trip to Lake Nakuru National Park stands out for its perfect blend of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and convenience from Nairobi. It offers a rare opportunity to experience Kenya’s natural beauty in just one day, without the need for an overnight stay. The drive through the Great Rift Valley showcases breathtaking views, while Lake Nakuru’s shimmering waters attract flocks of flamingos and pelicans, creating a photographer’s paradise. Beyond its birdlife, the park is one of Kenya’s best places to see both white and black rhinos up close, along with lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. The visit to Baboon Cliff provides unmatched panoramic views, and a stop at Makalia Falls adds a refreshing touch of nature and serenity. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a rich safari experience packed with wildlife, scenic beauty, and adventure — all in one unforgettable day. Lake Naivasha also has different types of birds and water animals.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport by air-conditioned Tour Van
- Bottled water
- Driver/guide
- Lunch break (Own expense)
- Local taxes
Not included
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
- Lake Nakuru Admission fee
- Lunch
- Tips
- Boat Ride Fee
What you'll see and do
LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK
This Lake Nakuru day trip offers an unforgettable blend of scenic beauty, wildlife diversity, and adventure — all within a single day from Nairobi. The journey through the Great Rift Valley sets the tone with breathtaking views and photo stops before entering one of Kenya’s most iconic national parks. Lake Nakuru is famous for its pink-hued flamingos, but it’s also a sanctuary for endangered white and black rhinos, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. The park’s compact size allows for excellent wildlife viewing, with chances to spot lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and zebras against the backdrop of the shimmering lake. A visit to Baboon Cliff rewards travelers with panoramic views, while Makalia Falls offers a tranquil spot for relaxation and photos. Later visit Lake Naivasha, participate in a boat ride, watch various birds as they hover around the water surface. There also various wildlife found on the water banks and you can visit Cresent island for a few minutes.
480 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
Lake Nakuru with entry fees
Lake Nakuru National Park: In this option, an entry fee is provided in the booking price. An entry fee is included. Pickup included
Lake Nakuru Private Tour
Private Tour: In this tour, once you book no one else will be included in the tour. The park fees are not in the price of the tour. Pickup included
Lake Nakuru without entry fee
year round: Get to the pink lake 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
- Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris Ltd
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 20 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
7 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Food and drink
2 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
20 verified traveler reviews for Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent first-time safari experience
Despite doing a last minute booking our tour was so memorable.Pickup was timely & Fidelis was really great . He gave great explanations to everything, was very helpful,attentive & definitely knew his way around the park. We saw lots of animals & took so many photos . Great experience & would definitely recommend this for anyone
via Tripadvisor
A Beautiful Day Exploring Kenya Together
My partner and I wanted to experience something different during our stay in Nairobi, so we booked the Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi with Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris. It was a lovely way to spend a day together away from the busy city. We really enjoyed our time around Lake Nakuru. The scenery was beautiful, and seeing wildlife in its natural surroundings made the experience special. We took plenty of photographs and enjoyed having someone knowledgeable with us to explain more about what we were seeing. The boat ride at Lake Naivasha was perhaps the most relaxing part of the day. Sitting on the water and looking across the lake created a peaceful atmosphere, and it was a nice contrast to the excitement of the safari. What impressed us most was how smoothly the day came together. They were friendly and attentive, and we never felt rushed unnecessarily. It was a memorable experience for both of us, combining wildlife, scenery and relaxation in one day.
Response from the operator: Dear Christen, Thank you for choosing Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris for your recent visit to Kenya. We are delighted to hear that you and your partner enjoyed such a wonderful and relaxing day exploring Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha. It is fantastic to know that our team’s attentive service and the seamless coordination of your itinerary helped make your experience so memorable. We strive to provide exactly that balance of wildlife excitement and peaceful relaxation, and we are thrilled that we hit the mark for you. We truly appreciate your kind words and your recommendation. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for another adventure in the future.
via Tripadvisor
A Great Break From a Busy Business Schedule
I was in Nairobi for business and had one free day before my flight home. Rather than spending the day in the city, I decided to book the Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi with Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris. The trip was a welcome change from meetings and conference rooms. Lake Nakuru gave me an opportunity to experience Kenya's wildlife and natural scenery even though my schedule did not allow for a longer safari. I enjoyed the game-viewing experience and appreciated the information provided along the way. The Lake Naivasha boat ride was another enjoyable part of the day. After a busy business schedule, being on the lake and taking in the peaceful surroundings was surprisingly refreshing. It gave me time to relax, take photographs and appreciate a different side of Kenya. I found their guides professional and easy to deal with. The itinerary made good use of my limited free time, and I returned to Nairobi feeling refreshed. For business travelers with a spare day, this is a very worthwhile option.
Response from the operator: Dear Philipo, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We are delighted that you chose to spend your limited free time in Nairobi with us and that our Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha day trip provided such a refreshing break from your business schedule. It is wonderful to hear that our team’s professionalism and the relaxing nature of the excursion helped you unwind before your flight home. We truly appreciate your recommendation, and we hope to have the pleasure of hosting you again for a longer safari adventure on your next trip to Kenya.
via Tripadvisor
An Excellent Choice For A Day Trip
I was visiting Nairobi and wanted to spend one of my free days experiencing Kenya's wildlife and scenery without joining a long multi-day safari. I booked the Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi and it turned out to be exactly what I was looking for. Lake Nakuru offered an exciting wildlife experience, and I enjoyed having time to observe the surroundings and take photographs. Traveling alone gave me the freedom to concentrate on the things that interested me most. I also appreciated being able to ask questions about the animals and the area throughout the trip. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha was a lovely contrast to the safari. The peaceful atmosphere on the lake made it a great opportunity to slow down and enjoy the scenery. I particularly liked seeing the landscape from the water rather than simply viewing it from the road. The whole experience was comfortable and well coordinated. Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris gave me a memorable introduction to two beautiful destinations in a single day.
Response from the operator: Dear traveler, Thank you for choosing Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris for your Nairobi day trip. We are delighted to hear that our Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha excursion provided the perfect balance of wildlife discovery and relaxation you were looking for. It is wonderful to know that our team’s coordination and local knowledge contributed to a memorable and comfortable experience. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another adventure during your next visit to Kenya.
via Tripadvisor
Family Trip- A Wonderful Day out Together
Our family had a wonderful experience on the Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi with Day to Day Tours and Safaris. We were looking for something that would allow both adults and children to enjoy nature without spending several days away from home, and this trip turned out to be a great choice. Lake Nakuru was a highlight for us, especially seeing the wildlife and enjoying the beautiful scenery around the park. The children were excited throughout the safari and kept pointing out animals they had never seen in person before. Later, the boat ride at Lake Naivasha gave us a completely different experience. Being on the water and seeing the surroundings from the lake was relaxing after the safari. Day to Day Tours and Safaris made the day easy for our family. Everything felt well organized, and we appreciated the friendly approach of the team. It was a memorable family adventure and one we would happily recommend to other families looking for a day trip from Nairobi.
Response from the operator: Dear traveler, Thank you for choosing Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris for your family excursion. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the wildlife at Lake Nakuru and the relaxing boat ride at Lake Naivasha. It is our goal to make every family trip both engaging for children and stress-free for parents, so we are thrilled to know our team succeeded in making your day well-organized and memorable. We truly appreciate your kind recommendation and look forward to the opportunity to host your family for another adventure in the future.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $48 to $405
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris Ltd, who run 10 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.1.
See everything Day 2 Day Tours and Safaris Ltd runsWhy this scores 76
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Nairobi.
How much does Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi cost?
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Prices start at $48 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi take?
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Plan for about 12 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 76 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 20 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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Around 7 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 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; Transport by air-conditioned Tour Van; Bottled water; Driver/guide; and Lunch break (Own expense). Not included: Souvenir photos (available to purchase); Lake Nakuru Admission fee; Lunch; and Tips. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 663 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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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.
Is Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi 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 Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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Across 20 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, the guide, knowledge and storytelling. The views and photo stops come up again and again. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Lake Nakuru & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Trip from Nairobi?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Lake Nakuru with entry fees, Lake Nakuru Private Tour, Lake Nakuru without entry fee. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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