Lake Naivasha, nestled in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking scenery. Our trip included a stay at Sawela Lodge, a private boat ride to Crescent Island, and a full day exploring Hell’s Gate National Park—an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

Crescent Island: A Close Encounter with Wildlife

Upon arrival at Sawela Lodge, we immediately fell in love with the serene charm of Lake Naivasha. That afternoon, we set out on a private boat ride to Crescent Island, accompanied by a nature guide from the hotel. The boat ride itself was a treat, offering stunning views of the lake, local fisherman and glimpses of hippos peeking out of the water.

Crescent Island is special because it allows you to walk alongside wildlife. With no predators on the island, you can get remarkably close to animals like giraffes, zebras, ostriches, monkeys, and impalas.

Walking through the island felt like stepping into a living wildlife documentary, Crescent Island’s wildlife population began with animals brought over during the filming of the movie Out of Africa. Over time, the animals have flourished, making it a unique sanctuary for close encounters and immersive experiences.

Hell’s Gate National Park: Cycling, Climbing, and the Gorge

The next day, we spent a full day in Hell’s Gate National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and unique activities. Unlike traditional safaris, the park allows you to explore on foot or by bike, offering an intimate experience with the wildlife.  We started the day by renting bikes and cycling to the crag, where we spent most of the day rock climbing. After climbing, we cycled to the gorge and hiked through the gorge.

Rock Climbing in Hell’s Gate

Hell’s Gate is a rock climber’s paradise, with towering cliffs and unique formations that inspired Disney’s The Lion King. These iconic landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for climbing. Additionally, parts of the 2003 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider – The Cradle of Life were filmed in the park, adding to its cinematic allure. We hired Nyazmy, who I met from the Kenya climbing club, who organised our day.  The park’s rock formations primarily consist of volcanic rocks, including basalt and obsidian, resulting from ancient volcanic activity in the region. These formations provide a variety of climbing experiences, from towering cliffs to smaller rock faces, catering to climbers of different skill levels.

We also discovered a unique animal, the Rock Hyrax while on the rock – these are small animals native to Africa, and while they resemble rodents, their closest living relatives are actually elephants!

Cycling in Hell’s Gate

Around 2 p.m., we grabbed our bikes and cycled 7 km to Ol Njorowa Gorge, passing zebras, giraffes, buffalo, and other wildlife along the way. The surreal experience of cycling past these magnificent animals made the journey as exciting as the destination.

Ol Njorowa Gorge

The gorge had been closed for several years due to a tragic flash flood, underscoring the region’s unpredictable geothermal and weather conditions. Its reopening has restored access to this breathtaking natural wonder. More than just a viewpoint, descending into the gorge reveals a dramatic shift in climate and environment. The towering rock walls, natural hot springs, and lush greenery create a magical atmosphere. It’s a must-visit spot within the park, and we’re glad we took the time to explore it fully after our exhilarating day of cycling and climbing.

Summary

Lake Naivasha and its surrounding attractions offer an unparalleled mix of adventure and tranquility. From walking with wildlife on Crescent Island to cycling and climbing in Hell’s Gate, every moment of our trip was unforgettable. If you’re looking for a destination that combines close wildlife encounters with thrilling outdoor activities, Lake Naivasha is the perfect choice.