Nairobi to Lake Naivasha: A Short Rift Valley Route With Stops Worth Making

The road from Nairobi climbs out of the city, crosses the high ground and then drops into the Rift Valley, where the lake and volcanic hills come into view. It is short enough to make a half day trip but rewards a night or two.

Below we explain the route, stops and pacing. Activities are covered in Naivasha and Hell's Gate activities.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

The Drive

Leaving Nairobi, the road climbs through the highlands and reaches the Rift Valley escarpment, where a viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama across the valley floor to the volcano of Longonot and beyond. The descent follows a busy highway used by heavy trucks, so patience is needed. Once on the valley floor, the road runs towards the lake, and turnings lead to lodges, camps and the national park gates. The journey takes a few hours depending on traffic.

Stops Worth Making

The escarpment viewpoint is the most popular, with stalls selling crafts and refreshments. Some travellers also visit a small roadside church or a rose or flower farm in the lake area, which show a different side of Kenya's economy. Do not feel you must stop everywhere: choose one or two that match your interests.

Pacing: One Night or Two

One night allows a late arrival, a boat trip or walk and a morning at the national park. Two nights add time for cycling and a visit to the crater or gorge. Naivasha is also an easy first night after a long international flight, since you avoid a long drive on your first day. See getting to Naivasha and Hell's Gate.

Continuing From Naivasha

From the lake most travellers continue to Lake Nakuru or on to the Masai Mara, which is a long drive from here. Combined itineraries link Naivasha, Nakuru and the Mara in a loop. See Kenya safari itineraries.

Rail and Other Options

A modern railway line serves parts of the corridor between Nairobi and the Rift Valley, but connections to lodges still need road transfers. Ask your operator whether current services suit your plans. A scheduled air service to Naivasha is not a normal choice.

Weather and Preparation

The lake area is cooler than the lowlands, especially mornings and evenings, so bring a jacket. Dry months are best for cycling, while the rains bring green hills and fewer visitors. See the best time to visit Naivasha. If you are arriving from overseas, tell your operator your flight time so the transfer can be arranged without pressure, and avoid driving at dusk when possible. Keep a small amount of change for the viewpoint stalls and consider carrying a light rain jacket, because the valley can be breezy and showers are possible. A relaxed first evening by the lake, with a short walk and an early night, sets you up well for the rest of the trip.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team