Discovering the Best of Naivasha
Summary: Our Guide to Naivasha: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities
Welcome to Naivasha! If you're planning to move to Naivasha, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Naivasha has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Naivasha.
Naivasha, a beautiful town in Kenya, offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most popular sites is Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake that is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including hippos, giraffes, and over 400 species of birds. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surrounding areas, or simply relax by the shore and enjoy the stunning views.
Hell's Gate National Park is another must-visit attraction in Naivasha. This park offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, wildlife, and adventure activities. Visitors can hike or cycle through the park, exploring its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and rock formations. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, baboons, and antelopes. For those interested in geology, the Olkaria Geothermal Station within the park offers guided tours to learn about geothermal power production.
Adjacent to Hell's Gate National Park is the Olkaria Natural Spa, a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploring. The spa features naturally heated pools, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot, offering a soothing experience amidst the beautiful surroundings.
For a more cultural experience, visitors can head to the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, a private game reserve that offers guided walking tours. Here, guests can get up close and personal with giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife while learning about the local Maasai culture and conservation efforts.
Finally, the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary is another popular attraction in Naivasha. This small, yet beautiful park features a volcanic crater lake and is home to a variety of wildlife, including flamingos, pelicans, and colobus monkeys. Visitors can take a guided tour around the lake or hike to the crater rim for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Naivasha offers a variety of options for visitors to enjoy. One popular restaurant is Ranch House Bistro, which serves a mix of international and local cuisine in a cozy, rustic setting. The restaurant also features live music on weekends, making it a great spot for a night out.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can head to The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort, which offers a variety of dining options, including a pizzeria, a grill, and a buffet-style restaurant. The resort also features a bar and lounge, where guests can enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning views of the Rift Valley.
Another popular spot for dining and nightlife is the Lake Naivasha Country Club, which offers a range of dining options, including a formal restaurant, a casual café, and a poolside bar. The club also hosts regular events and entertainment, such as live music and themed nights.
For a more local experience, visitors can explore the various bars and pubs in Naivasha town, such as Club Liquid, which offers a lively atmosphere, music, and dancing. Alternatively, Kengeles Bar & Restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks.
Recreational activities in Naivasha cater to a variety of interests, from outdoor adventures to more leisurely pursuits. For those who enjoy hiking and exploring nature, Hell's Gate National Park offers a range of trails and guided tours, while the nearby Mount Longonot National Park provides a challenging hike to the summit of an extinct volcano.
Water sports are also popular in Naivasha, with Lake Naivasha offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Visitors can rent boats or join guided tours to explore the lake and its surrounding areas, such as Crescent Island Game Sanctuary and Elsamere Conservation Centre.
For golf enthusiasts, the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort features an 18-hole championship golf course, set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Rift Valley. The resort also offers other recreational facilities, such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a spa.
Finally, for those looking to experience local culture and community projects, a visit to the Oserengoni Wildlife Sanctuary provides an opportunity to learn about conservation efforts and support local communities through tourism. The sanctuary offers guided tours, as well as accommodation and dining options for visitors who wish to stay overnight.

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Naivasha: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Kenya Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Kenya
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Kenya
- Best Places to Live in Kenya
- Real Estate in Kenya
- Guide to Real Estate in Kenya
- Pros & Cons of Living in Kenya
- Cost of Living in Kenya
- Culture Shock in Kenya
- Homeschooling in Kenya
- How to Enroll Your Children in School in Kenya
- Educational System in Kenya
- Pros and Cons of Living in Kenya 2025