3-Day Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Crescent Birding Safari
Overview of 3-Day Lake Nakuru & Naivasha Crescent Birding Safari
This specialized 3-day safari is perfect for bird watchers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a calm, immersive experience in Kenya’s Rift Valley. Explore the flamingo-filled shores of Lake Nakuru, home to white and black rhinos, and cruise Lake Naivasha by boat while spotting African fish eagles and other iconic birds. Visit Crescent Island Sanctuary for an up-close walking safari with giraffes, zebras, and antelope. This itinerary balances wildlife observation, photography opportunities, and comfortable lodge accommodation for a memorable short safari.
Highlights of this Tour
Itinerary and Where to Stay
Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru
Depart Nairobi in the morning and drive through the Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Enter the park for an extensive game and birding drive, spotting flamingos, pelicans, storks, and raptors. The park is also home to white and black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalo, and lions. Lunch at the lodge followed by continued wildlife and bird observation in the afternoon.
Meals Day 1: Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park
Where you sleep
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Mid-RangeDay 2: Nakuru to Lake Naivasha
After breakfast, drive to Lake Naivasha. Check in and enjoy lunch before heading out for a boat safari on the lake, where African fish eagles, kingfishers, cormorants, and hippos are commonly seen. The afternoon is ideal for photography with scenic lake views and birdlife along the shoreline.
Meals Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Destination: Lake Naivasha & Hell's Gate
Day 3: Crescent Island & Nairobi
After breakfast, take a short boat ride to Crescent Island, a private sanctuary accessible only on foot. Enjoy a guided walking safari, observing giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and a wide variety of birds in their natural habitat. This is a prime opportunity for photography and close encounters with wildlife in a safe environment. After the walk, return to Naivasha for lunch and a leisurely drive back to Nairobi, arriving in the afternoon.
Meals Day 3: Breakfast, Lunch
Destination: Lake Naivasha & Hell's Gate
What's Included
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- Accommodation on full-board basis
- Park entry fees (Lake Nakuru
- Lake Naivasha
- Crescent Island)
- Guided boat ride on Lake Naivasha
- All government taxes and levies
- Bottled drinking water during drives
What's Not Included
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal items and gear
- Drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
Places You will Visit
Book This Package
Quick Info
- Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starts: Nairobi
- Ends: Nairobi
The Rift Valley lakes of Kenya are some of the most spectacular birding destinations in Africa. This 3-day safari is designed for slow-paced observation and photography, giving travelers the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and birdlife of Lake Nakuru and Lake Naivasha.
Lake Nakuru, famous for its pink flamingos and large pelican populations, also hosts white and black rhinos, Rothschild giraffes, and numerous other wildlife species, making it a haven for both birders and photographers. The nearby Lake Naivasha offers a contrasting experience with lush shores, hippos, and a large diversity of birds. A guided boat safari allows for excellent viewing and photography from the water.
A visit to Crescent Island Sanctuary provides a unique walking safari among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, an experience that cannot be matched by vehicle drives. This safari is ideal for travelers who want intimate wildlife encounters, photographic opportunities, and a peaceful pace, all within a short timeframe.
With comfortable lodges, expert guides, and a focus on both wildlife and birdlife, this 3-day Rift Valley safari is the perfect escape for enthusiasts looking to explore Kenya’s diverse ecosystems without rushing.
