Lake Naivasha — Hippos

Lake Naivasha is one of the few freshwater lakes in the Rift Valley and a popular weekend destination for Nairobi residents — only 90 km from the capital. The lake is situated at an altitude of 1,884 meters and is surrounded by green farmland (Kenya's rose export industry!) and acacia forest.

Highlights

• Boat Trips: On the lake, you encounter hippos in large numbers — they suddenly surface next to the boat and yawn with their huge mouths. Respect the distance! Also cormorants, pelicans, fish eagles, and over 400 bird species
• Crescent Island: A peninsula in the lake where you can walk among giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and waterbucks — one of the few places in Kenya where walking safaris without predators are possible
• Elsamere: The former home of Joy Adamson (author of "Born Free"), now a museum with cozy afternoon tea by the lakeside

Naivasha is ideal as a day trip from Nairobi or as a base for visiting Hell's Gate (15 min drive). Accommodation tip: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge or Camp Carnelley's on the south shore.