The short answer
- Lake Nakuru
- Rhinos, flamingos at times; US$90
- Lake Naivasha
- Boat trips, walking safaris
- Hell's Gate
- Cycling safari; US$50
- From Nairobi
- 2 to 3 hours
Both lakes sit on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, a few hours north west of Nairobi and on the road to the Masai Mara. One night at each, or a night at one with a day visit to the other, fits easily into a safari.
Lake Nakuru National Park
- Rhinos: A fenced sanctuary with both black and white rhinos, often seen on a half day drive.
- Flamingos: Numbers vary with the water level; in recent years many flocks have moved to other lakes such as Bogoria.
- Also: Rothschild's giraffes, lions, buffaloes and the view from Baboon Cliff.
Lake Naivasha
- Boat trip: An hour on the freshwater lake among hippos and fish eagles.
- Crescent Island: A private sanctuary where you walk with a guide among giraffes, zebras and antelopes. Entry is paid separately.
- Hell's Gate National Park: Cycle or walk past cliffs and steam vents, then hike into the gorge with a guide. US$50 a day.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Lake Nakuru worth visiting?
Yes, especially for rhinos, which are hard to see in the Masai Mara. Flamingo numbers vary from year to year.
Can you walk with animals at Lake Naivasha?
Yes. On Crescent Island and in Hell's Gate there are no big predators, so you can walk or cycle among giraffes, zebras and antelopes with a guide.
Kenya month by month
More Kenya guides
Best time to visit Kenya: safari seasons, rains and the migration
June to October and January to February are the best months for a Kenya safari, with dry weather and animals gathered near water. July to October adds the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, at peak prices.
Updated 16 October 2026
The Great Migration in Kenya: when and where to see it
Around 1.5 million wildebeest, with zebras and gazelles, circle between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Masai Mara. They are usually in the Mara from July to October, with river crossings peaking in August and September.
Updated 16 October 2026
How much does a Kenya safari cost? Prices, park fees and a calculator
Expect about US$150 to 250 per person per day on a budget safari, US$300 to 500 mid range and US$700 or more for luxury, including park fees. Park fees alone can be US$200 to 600 per person on a short Masai Mara trip.
Updated 16 October 2026
Masai Mara safari guide: reserve or conservancy, how long and how to get there
The Masai Mara is Kenya's most famous safari, with big cats all year and the Great Migration from July to October. Choose between the busy national reserve and quieter private conservancies, and allow at least two or three nights.
Updated 16 October 2026