Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha Full-Day Guided Tour from Nairobi
Difficulty
easy
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short walks, a 7 km optional bike ride, and brief periods standing on the boat.
Overview
Drive down the Great Rift Valley, cycle through towering gorges and take a quiet boat ride to watch hippos at Lake Naivasha. This full-day guided outing from Nairobi delivers geology, wildlife, and local culture in one accessible adventure.
Hell's Gate and Lake Naivasha Full-Day Guided Tour from Nairobi
Select participants and date
You set out from Nairobi before the city swallows the sun—an easy silence on the road broken only by the guide's cadence and the slow reveal of the Great Rift Valley. By the time the minivan pulls into the viewpoint the valley has already widened, the escarpment folding like a palm. Wind moves through the geology here with intent; the cliffs of Hell's Gate press and dare you to look closer.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early to beat heat and crowds
Pickups begin early—arriving on time gives you cooler temperatures for cycling in the gorge and better wildlife sightings on the lake.
Wear grippy shoes
Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners handle gravel roads and rocky paths better than sandals.
Respect hippo safety
From the boat, keep a safe distance and follow the guide—hippos can be aggressive and are often more dangerous than large predators.
Bring cash for lunch and tips
Lunch at Naivasha Fisherman's Camp is pay-on-site; small bills are useful and guides appreciate a tip for good service.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hippo
- African fish eagle
History
Hell's Gate sits within the Great Rift Valley—land shaped by tectonic forces over millions of years; local Maasai and smallholder communities have long lived along the lakeshore.
Conservation
Lake Naivasha’s freshwater is under pressure from agriculture and tourism; choose operators who support responsible water use and avoid disturbing wildlife, especially hippos.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Naivasha
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe hiking shoes
Provide traction on gravel roads, rock ledges and during the bike section.
Sun protection (hat & SPF)
The Rift Valley is exposed—sunscreen and a wide-brim hat prevent sunburn.
summer specific
Light rain shell
Useful during short showers in the long-rain season to stay comfortable on the bikes.
spring specific
Water bottle (1–2L)
Staying hydrated is vital during cycling and under the dry sun.