Day Trip to Hell's Gate and Horse Riding at Sanctuary Farm from Nairobi
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable riding a bike for 8–12 km and mounting a horse for up to 2 hours.
Overview
Spend a day riding the raw edges of the Rift: cycle between gorges and grazing wildlife in Hell’s Gate, then mount horses at Sanctuary Farm for lakeside views of zebras and waterbuck. This full-day trip from Nairobi combines geology, wildlife and hands-on outdoor adventure.
Day Trip to Hell's Gate and Horse Riding at Sanctuary Farm from Nairobi
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You arrive before sunrise on the Nairobi road, the city peeling away and the highland air growing sharper as the van drops toward Naivasha. By the time the Great Rift Valley unfurls beneath a low, pale sun, the cliffs and gorges of Hell’s Gate have already taken on a sculptural quality—sheer walls carved in bands of burnt orange and gray. Guides unload bicycles and horses; the park seems to inhale as riders and cyclists fan out across flat plains where grazing impala and zebra lift their heads like punctuation.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Hydrate at altitude
The valley sits near 1,800–1,900 m; drink at least 1–2 liters during the day and carry a refillable bottle—bottled water is provided but supplies can run low.
Wear grippy, closed-toe shoes
Biking and short gorge walks involve loose volcanic rock and compact dirt—trail shoes or light hiking boots work best.
Protect from sun and dust
Bring a wide-brim hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+; dust from trails can be kicked up by bikes and animals in the dry season.
Listen to guides around wildlife
Horses and wildlife are accustomed to visitors, but keep to the guide’s instructions to avoid startling animals and to ensure safe viewing distances.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Zebra
- Waterbuck
History
The rift that forms Hell’s Gate is part of the East African Rift system—tectonic forces have exposed volcanic plugs and formed narrow gorges over millions of years, shaping local settlement and ecology.
Conservation
Hell’s Gate encourages low-impact access—walking and cycling instead of large safari vehicles—to reduce noise and emissions; support local craft sellers and follow set trails to limit erosion.
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Adventure Hotspots in Naivasha
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe trail shoes
Grip and foot protection for biking and walking through gorges.
Refillable water bottle (1–2 L)
Hydration is essential at higher elevation and under direct sun.
Sunscreen and brimmed hat
High-altitude sun is strong—protect skin and eyes during open-plain segments.
summer specific
Light wind or fleece layer
Mornings and late afternoons can be cool; a light layer keeps you comfortable between activities.
winter specific