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Are finding it hard to choose between Lake Naivasha vs Lake Nakuru Which one is the Best to Visit, we explain the differences between these 2 lakes for you to choose the best one to visit on your safari in Kenya. Both Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru offer unique experiences, and the choice depends on your interests.
Are you interested in bird watching, both Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru are great options. Lake Nakuru is the best to see wildlife, that it will allow you to see more wildlife compared to lake Naivasha. You can opt to visit both lakes as part of your Kenya safari vacation if you have many days available.
Your visit to both lakes will not disappoint you. Here’s a comparison between Lake Naivasha vs Lake Nakuru Which one is the Best to Visit:
Lake Naivasha
- Wildlife: Home to a variety of animals including hippos, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species. The nearby Crescent Island Game Sanctuary offers walking safaris.
- Activities: Boat rides, fishing, bird watching, hiking, and visits to nearby attractions like Hell’s Gate National Park and the geothermal spa.
- Scenery: Freshwater lake with beautiful views, lush surroundings, and a backdrop of mountains.
- Accommodation: Wide range of options from budget to luxury lodges and campsites.
Lake Nakuru
- Wildlife: Famous for its large populations of flamingos and other bird species, as well as rhinos, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and zebras within Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Activities: Game drives, bird watching, and picnicking.
- Scenery: Alkaline lake known for its stunning pink hue from the flamingos, surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland.
- Accommodation: Options within the national park and nearby areas, catering to various budgets.
Recommendations:
- For Bird Enthusiasts: Lake Nakuru, due to the flamingos and diverse birdlife.
- For Water Activities and Relaxation: Lake Naivasha, with its boat rides and proximity to other attractions.
- For Game Drives and Big Game Viewing: Lake Nakuru National Park, offering chances to see rhinos and other wildlife in a protected environment.
- For Hiking and Walking Safaris: Lake Naivasha, particularly around Crescent Island and Hell’s Gate.
If you have time, visiting both can provide a well-rounded experience of Kenya’s lakes and wildlife.
What is the Best Time to Visit Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru
The best time to visit Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru is during the dry seasons, which generally occur from late June to October and from late December to early March. During these periods, you can expect:
- Wildlife Viewing: The dry season leads to thinner vegetation and animals gathering around water sources, making wildlife easier to spot. This is especially important in Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its rhinos and flamingos.
- Bird Watching: Both lakes are renowned for bird watching, with Lake Nakuru being famous for its flamingos. Although the flamingo population can fluctuate, the dry season still offers excellent opportunities to see a variety of bird species.
- Comfortable Weather: The weather during the dry season is generally more pleasant, with less rain and more sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities like boat rides on Lake Naivasha or game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park.
A Kenya safari itinerary that includes visit to Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru
Here’s a suggested Kenya safari itinerary that includes visits to Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru, and the Masai Mara:
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
- Arrive in Nairobi: Transfer to your hotel for rest and acclimatization.
- Overnight: Nairobi
Day 2: Nairobi to Lake Naivasha
- Morning: Depart Nairobi and drive to Lake Naivasha.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and birdlife.
- Evening: Visit Crescent Island for a walking safari.
- Overnight: Lake Naivasha
Day 3: Lake Naivasha to Lake Nakuru National Park
- Morning: Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Afternoon: Game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife.
- Overnight: Lake Nakuru
Day 4: Lake Nakuru National Park
- Full Day: Spend the day exploring Lake Nakuru National Park with morning and afternoon game drives.
- Overnight: Lake Nakuru
Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara
- Morning: Depart Lake Nakuru and drive to the Masai Mara National Reserve.
- Afternoon: Arrive in the Masai Mara in time for an evening game drive.
- Overnight: Masai Mara
Day 6: Masai Mara
- Full Day: Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in the Masai Mara. Look for the Big Five and witness the Great Migration if timing allows.
- Overnight: Masai Mara
Day 7: Masai Mara
- Full Day: Another day of game drives in the Masai Mara, including optional activities like a hot air balloon safari.
- Overnight: Masai Mara
Day 8: Masai Mara to Nairobi
- Morning: Early morning game drive.
- Midday: Drive back to Nairobi.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Nairobi for departure or additional stay.
Why book a Kenya safari Through Eco Adventure Safaris?
Eco Adventure Safaris offers unrivaled and professional tour and travel services in Uganda, Kenya, Congo, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Since then, Eco Adventure Safaris as established itself as one of the leading tour operators in all these countries including Kenya. Eco Adventure Safaris boasts of a professional office and field team that takes care of all your requests and inquiries. We are full members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) and work closely with Kenya Wildlife Services.
We are highly recommended on Trip Advisor as well as Trust Pilot. Our website is one of the best and most reliable point to help you start preparing for your Kenya safari as we have the best and most updated information that you can rely on. Eco Adventure Safaris is owned and run by Ugandans who have explored Kenya and as such, you will be dealing with a team that sells what they know. Feel to free to contact us here about Lake Naivasha vs Lake Nakuru Which one is the Best to Visit