Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake, fringed by thick papyrus. The lake is almost 13kms across, but its waters are shallow with an average depth of five metres. Lake area varies greatly according to rainfall, with an average range between 114 and 991 sq kms.

At the beginning of the 20th Century, Naivasha completely dried up and effectively

disappeared. The resulting open land was farmed, until heavy rains a few years later caused the lake to return to existence, swallowing up the newly established estates.

Afternoon winds and storms can cause the Lake to become suddenly rough and produce high waves. For this reason, the local Maasai christened the lake Nai'posha meaning ''rough water'', which the British later misspelt as Naivasha.

The lake and its surrounds are rich in natural bounty, and the fertile soils and water

supply have made this one of Kenya's prime agricultural regions.

Much of the lake is surrounded by forests of the yellow barked Acacia Xanthophlea,

known as the yellow fever tree. These forests abound with bird life, and Naivasha is

known as a world class birding destination.

The waters of the lake draw a great range of game to these shores. Giraffes wander

among the acacias, Buffalos wallow in the swamps and Colobus monkeys call from the treetops while the Lakes large hippo populations sleep the day out in the shallows.

The region surrounding the Lake is well worth exploring. There are two more smaller

lakes nearby, Oloidien, and Sonachi, a bright green crater lake.

Naivasha is a good stopover during Kenya safari and boat trips on the lake are widely available, and is a great way to spend an afternoon or morning.

Sunsets are always stunning, with the haunting call of a Fish Eagle high over the Lake bringing the day to a perfect end.

Accommodation within Naivasha range and others for Kenya safaris

Central Kenya, Mount Kenya & The Aberdares

The Ark Mt Kenya Safari Club The Aberdare Country Club Sweetwaters Treetops Lodge Mountain Lodge Outspan Elsa Kopje-Meru Great Rift Valley Lodge-Naivasha Izaak Walton Valley Lodge Embu Lake Naivasha country club Loldia House- Naivasha Mundui House-Naivasha