A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Exploring Naivasha: A Natural Paradise in the Heart of Kenya

Naivasha is a city located in Nakuru County, in Kenya's Rift Valley. It is known for its stunning lake, Lake Naivasha, which is an oasis of natural beauty and biodiversity. This tourist destination offers a variety of activities and attractions for all tastes and ages.

Lake Naivasha

Lake Naivasha is the heart of the city and one of the main tourist attractions. This freshwater lake is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including hippos, over 400 species of birds, and a large number of fish. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and bird watching. In addition, the lake is surrounded by acacia and cypress forests, creating an impressive landscape.

Lake Nakuru National Park

A short distance from Naivasha is Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its large colony of flamingos. This park also hosts a large number of wild animals, including lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos. Visitors can enjoy 4x4 vehicle safaris to get a close look at these impressive animals.

Hell's Gate National Park

Hell's Gate National Park, located near Naivasha, is another popular destination for nature lovers. This park is known for its impressive rock formations and its diversity of wildlife. Visitors can go hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking in this park. In addition, Hell's Gate is one of the few parks in Kenya where walking is allowed.

Mount Longonot Crater

Mount Longonot is an inactive volcano located near Naivasha. Visitors can hike to the top of the volcano to enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley. The volcano's crater is home to a dense jungle and a large amount of wildlife.

Crescent Island Nature Reserve

The Crescent Island Nature Reserve is a peninsula in Lake Naivasha that is home to a large number of wild animals, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Visitors can walk around the island and enjoy close encounters with these animals in a safe and peaceful environment.

Naivasha is a tourist destination that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for nature lovers. With its stunning lake, its national parks, and its diversity of wildlife, Naivasha is a natural paradise in the heart of Kenya.

Gastronomic Products of Naivasha

Fish from Lake Naivasha

Naivasha is famous for its lake, which is home to a wide variety of fish. Local fishermen catch tilapia and catfish, which are then served fresh in the area's restaurants. The fish can be prepared in several ways, but it is often fried and served with ugali (a type of cornbread) and sukuma wiki (a kind of kale).
Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma, which means "roasted meat" in Swahili, is a popular dish throughout Kenya, including Naivasha. The meat, often goat or beef, is grilled until tender and then served with ugali and kachumbari (a tomato and onion salad). It is a common meal at social gatherings and is known for its rich, smoky flavor.
Naivasha Honey

Naivasha is also known for its high-quality honey. Local bees collect nectar from the area's wildflowers, producing a rich and sweet honey. This honey is used in a variety of dishes and drinks, and can also be purchased to take home as a souvenir.

Naivasha's Notable Gastronomic Spots

From lake-view restaurants to cozy local taverns, Naivasha offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its rich cuisine. Below, we present some of the most notable:

Club House at Lake Naivasha Country Club

Located in the heart of the Lake Naivasha Country Club, the Club House is known for its excellent Kenyan cuisine. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as nyama choma (barbecued meat), samosas, and the famous ugali. In addition, the cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.

Marina Tavern

If you're looking for a charming place with good prices, Marina Tavern is an excellent choice. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of local and international dishes, such as fish from Lake Naivasha, chicken tikka, and homemade pizzas. In addition, its extensive wine and beer list will allow you to pair your favorite dishes with the best selection of drinks.

Buffalo Mall Food Court

For those looking for a more casual dining experience, the Buffalo Mall Food Court is the perfect place. With a variety of food stalls offering everything from burgers and fried chicken to local dishes like sukuma wiki and chapati, there's something for every taste. In addition, its convenient location and affordable prices make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

La Pieve Restaurant

For a more sophisticated culinary experience, La Pieve Restaurant is an exceptional choice. This elegant restaurant offers a blend of Italian and Kenyan cuisine, with dishes such as homemade pasta, risotto, and grilled steak. The intimate atmosphere and the impressive view of Lake Naivasha make this place a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Sporting Activities in Naivasha, Kenya

Bike Safari

Naivasha is famous for its bike safaris. Tourists can pedal through Hell's Gate National Park, where they can get up close to wild animals, including giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

Boat Rides

Lake Naivasha is a popular spot for boat rides. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the lake while watching hippos and water birds.

Hiking

Naivasha offers several hiking trails, including Mount Longonot and Hell's Crater. These trails offer stunning views of the Kenyan landscape and the opportunity to see more wildlife.

Sport Fishing

Lake Naivasha is a popular spot for sport fishing. Visitors can rent a boat and fishing gear to try and catch some of the fish that inhabit the lake.

Places near Naivasha

If you are in Naivasha and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Nairobi

Nairobi, the vibrant capital of Kenya, offers a unique blend of wildlife, rich culture and diverse cuisine, from local dishes to international cuisine. Don't miss the famous Nyama Choma and explore the local food markets.

Hell's Gate National Park

Hell's Gate National Park in Kenya offers a wild adventure with hiking, cycling and climbing, in addition to the opportunity to taste authentic African cuisine, surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes and a diversity of wildlife.

Nakuru

Nakuru, Kenya, is a vibrant tourist destination, famous for its Lake Nakuru National Park, home to flamingos and rhinos. The city offers a rich culinary experience with traditional Kenyan dishes and a growing scene of contemporary restaurants.