How to Plan Your Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour in Nairobi

If you’re visiting Nairobi, taking a day trip to the stunning Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Parks is a must-do activity. With the help of a private driver/guide, you’ll have the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, enjoy bird watching, and take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your day tour.

Overview of the Tour

The Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour is led by a private driver/guide and lasts for approximately 10-11 hours. You’ll begin with early morning pickup from your Nairobi hotel at 6:00 AM and head straight to Lake Nakuru National Park. After exploring the park and having lunch at a local lodge, you’ll proceed to Lake Naivasha for an hour-long boat ride before being returned to your hotel.

Highlights of the Tour

The Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour offers several exciting experiences for visitors, including:

• Spotting hippos and eagles while enjoying a boat ride on Lake Naivasha
• Exploring Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha with a private driver/guide
• Seeing brilliant flocks of pink flamingoes at Lake Nakuru
• Enjoying close-up wildlife encounters in Lake Nakuru National Park

Tour Itinerary

Here’s a more detailed look at the Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour itinerary:

6:00 AM: Pickup from Nairobi

Your day tour starts early in the morning with pickup from your Nairobi hotel at 6:00 AM. You’ll be greeted by your private driver/guide who will take you straight to Lake Nakuru National Park.

9:30 AM: Arrival at Lake Nakuru National Park

After a 3-hour drive from Nairobi, you’ll arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park where you will have the opportunity to view multiple wildlife species, including the endangered black and white rhino species.

12:00 PM: Lunch at a Local Lodge

After wildlife viewing, you’ll enjoy lunch at a lodge within the park where you’ll have the chance to purchase a meal at a local restaurant.

1:00 PM: Continue to Explore Lake Nakuru National Park

After lunch, you’ll continue to explore the park and enjoy more wildlife viewing before eventually departing for Lake Naivasha.

3:00 PM: Drive to Lake Naivasha National Park

After leaving the park, you’ll start the drive towards Lake Naivasha National Park, stopping along the way for a variety of wildlife sightings.

4:00 PM: Arrival at Lake Naivasha National Park

Once you arrive in Lake Naivasha, you’ll take a boat tour around the lake that lasts for approximately an hour.

5:00 PM: Return to Nairobi

After completing the boat tour, you will be transported back to your Nairobi hotel by your private driver/guide.

Booking the Tour

To book the Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Park Day Tour, you can visit this link: book the tour here. The tour is operated by a third-party company, and all payments and booking details will be handled through the GetYourGuide website.

Book Your Tour Now

A day tour to Lake Nakuru & Naivasha National Parks is a fantastic way to explore and experience the natural beauty of Kenya. With diverse wildlife sightings, pink flamingos, and a boat tour, visitors can enjoy a full day of adventure and relaxation outside of Nairobi. By following this guide and booking your tour through a trusted provider, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Nairobi

If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi, Kenya, you might have some questions about the city. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to help you plan your trip:

1. What is Nairobi famous for?

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city, is famous for its wildlife and natural surroundings. Nairobi National Park is located just a few miles from the city center, making it one of the only cities in the world where you can see wild animals in their natural habitat. The Maasai Mara National Reserve, which is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, is also accessible from Nairobi. Another popular attraction is the Giraffe Centre, where visitors can feed and interact with giraffes. Nairobi is also known for its vibrant culture, music, and art scene, and its bustling markets.

2. Is Nairobi safe to visit?

As with any big city, Nairobi has its share of crime, so it’s important to take precautions when traveling there. Visitors should avoid walking alone at night, carrying large amounts of cash, or wearing expensive jewelry. It’s also best to use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing services like Uber, particularly after dark. In addition, visitors should be aware of scams, such as people offering tours or safaris that turn out to be fraudulent. It’s wise to book tours and safaris through a reputable travel company.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Nairobi?

The best time to visit Nairobi is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and from January to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the wildlife is more visible because the vegetation is less dense. However, if you want to see the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara, which is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles, plan your visit between July and October.

4. What language is spoken in Nairobi?

The official languages of Kenya are English and Swahili, and both are widely spoken in Nairobi. Visitors may also hear other languages spoken, such as Kikuyu and Luo.

5. What is the local currency in Nairobi?

The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks, hotels, or licensed foreign exchange bureaus. It’s also common to find ATMs throughout the city.

6. What should I wear when visiting Nairobi?

Nairobi is a cosmopolitan city, and visitors can wear whatever they feel comfortable in, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and culture. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, particularly in more conservative areas. Shorts and sandals are acceptable casual wear, but visitors should dress more formally when attending business meetings or other formal events.

7. What are the best places to eat in Nairobi?

Nairobi has a diverse food scene, with a wide range of international cuisines available. Some popular dining options include: – Talisman Restaurant – Carnivore Restaurant – Thai Chi Restaurant – Sierra Brasserie – Mediterraneo Restaurant & Bistro

8. What are some cultural events in Nairobi?

Nairobi hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, film festivals, and art exhibitions. Some popular events include: – Blankets and Wine: This quarterly event features live music, food, and drinks, and takes place in different locations around Nairobi. – Nairobi Film Festival: This annual festival showcases local and international films and includes workshops, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers. – Art & Craft Market: This weekly market features works by local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

9. What is the transportation system like in Nairobi?

Nairobi has a variety of transportation options, including buses, matatus (minibusses), taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber. However, traffic is often congested, so visitors should plan accordingly. Many visitors also choose to hire a car and driver for the day, particularly for safaris or day trips outside the city.

10. What are some popular day trips from Nairobi?

There are many popular day trips from Nairobi that visitors can take, including: – Nairobi National Park: This park is located just a few miles outside the city and is home to many different species of African wildlife. – Maasai Mara National Reserve: This reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa and is home to the wildebeest migration. – Lake Naivasha: This freshwater lake is located in the Great Rift Valley and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and bird-watching. – Mount Longonot: This dormant volcano is a popular hiking destination, and visitors can hike to the crater rim for stunning views of the surrounding area. In conclusion, Nairobi is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. From wildlife and nature to culture and cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. By taking precautions and planning ahead, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Nairobi.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Nairobi

Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a beautiful and vibrant city that is popularly known for its wildlife, culture, and nightlife. Despite its reputation for being a bit of a chaotic city, it’s home to many fantastic attractions and experiences that you won’t want to miss. Here is a guide on how to make the most out of your time as a tourist in Nairobi.

1. Explore the Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is the only national park in the world located within a city. The park is home to a variety of animals such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalos, giraffes, and zebras. Taking a game drive within the park is a great way to experience Kenya’s wild animals in their natural habitat. The park also offers spectacular views of the Nairobi skyline.

2. Visit the Giraffe Centre

The Giraffe Centre is located in Langata and is home to endangered Rothschild’s Giraffes. Visitors can get up close and personal with these majestic animals and even feed them by hand. It’s an incredible experience to have a giraffe’s wet tongue tickling your palm as it takes a pellet of food from you.

3. Discover the Karen Blixen Museum

The Karen Blixen Museum is located on the outskirts of Nairobi in the suburb of Karen. It was the home of the famous Danish author Karen Blixen, who wrote the book “Out of Africa,” which became an award-winning movie. The museum gives visitors a glimpse into the lives of Karen Blixen and her family, as well as the history of Kenya during the colonial era.

4. Shop at the Maasai Market

The Maasai Market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry. It’s open every day of the week, but it’s best to visit on weekends when the market is at its busiest. The market is a great place to bargain and practice your negotiation skills. Make sure to keep an eye on your belongings while shopping, as pickpocketing is common in crowded marketplaces.

5. Enjoy the Nairobi nightlife

Nairobi boasts a world-class nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. For live music and dancing, some popular spots include Mercury Lounge, J’s Fresh Bar and Kitchen, and Brew Bistro. To enjoy a stunning view of the city, visit Sky Bar at the newly opened Four Points by Sheraton Hotel. However, remember to be safe when clubbing in Nairobi by staying within well-lit and populated areas.

6. Take a trip to the Bomas of Kenya

The Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center located just outside of Nairobi where visitors can learn about Kenya’s diverse cultures. You will be treated to traditional dances, music performances, and costumes from various ethnic groups in Kenya. The center is a fantastic way to experience the Kenyan culture and history.

7. Tour the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is an elephant orphanage located within the Nairobi National Park. Visitors can have a chance to watch the elephants during their feeding time as handlers bottle-feed them. It’s best to visit the center in the morning as the feeding usually takes place between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.

8. Walk in the Karura Forest

The Karura Forest is Nairobi’s largest urban forest, covering over 1,000 hectares of land. Visitors can take a walk along the many walking trails while enjoying the beautiful scenery or even have a picnic with family or friends. The forest is also home to a beautiful waterfall and a bat cave that you can explore.

Book Your Tour Now

Nairobi has a lot to offer to tourists, from wildlife parks to cultural centers, restaurants, and clubs. The above options are some of the best attractions to visit while in Nairobi, but there’s so much more to explore in this beautiful city. Just remember to stay safe and enjoy your stay.