Savvy travelers looking for aquatic adventures near Nairobi have several excellent options. The standout experience is Lake Naivasha, where peaceful boat rides bring you face-to-face with hippos and countless water birds in their natural habitat. Lake Nakuru National Park offers another rewarding cruise, where you’ll spot white rhinos along the shoreline and, with luck, catch glimpses of the famous tree-climbing lions.
I’m particularly fond of the half-day tours on Lake Naivasha – they’re well-organized, reasonably priced, and include expert naturalist guides who know exactly where to find the wildlife. The sunset cruises here are especially magical, offering perfect lighting for photography.
Let’s check out the top boat tours worth your time and money in Nairobi.
Key Points
- Lake Naivasha offers serene boat rides with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting, with optional cruises priced around $25 per person.
- Crescent Island provides unique wildlife encounters during a full-day tour with a boat ride, priced at $192 per person.
- Hell’s Gate National Park tours include bike rentals and round-trip transfers, allowing visitors to explore the scenic landscapes.
- Private tours to Mount Longonot combine hiking, biking, and optional boat rides, with prices starting from $125 per person.
- Budget-friendly small group tours with a maximum capacity of 90 travelers offer a cost-effective way to explore the national parks, starting from $60 per person.
Day Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
A popular day tour option for visitors to Nairobi is the excursion to Hell’s Gate National Park and the optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
This 154-review tour boasts a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. The experience includes round-trip transfers, bike rentals, and park entrance fees, with a price starting from $135 per person.
Guests can explore the unique landscape by bike, boat, and on foot, spotting wildlife like eagles, zebras, and hippos along the way.
While the Hell’s Gate Gorge is currently closed, the tour still offers an intimate perspective of the area. Lunch is included, and pickup is available from various accommodations.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Full Day Lake Nakuru Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
This full-day tour from Nairobi takes visitors on an immersive wildlife experience in Lake Nakuru National Park, followed by an optional boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha.
During the 3-hour game drive, you’ll spot white rhinos, waterbucks, hippos, and tree-climbing lions, as well as the park’s renowned birdlife.
After a break for lunch, the afternoon drive offers more opportunities to see diverse wildlife.
The optional 1-hour boat ride on Lake Naivasha allows you to observe birds and hippos in their natural habitat.
With private transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible scheduling, this tour provides an excellent way to explore Kenya’s stunning natural landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Read our full review: Full Day Lake Nakuru Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Day Tour To Lake Nakuru Park With Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
Visitors seeking an immersive wildlife experience can embark on a day tour to Lake Nakuru National Park, followed by an optional boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha.
The tour offers private transportation with a knowledgeable guide, providing live commentary and the chance to spot lions, rhinos, and flamingos in their natural habitat.
The boat ride on Lake Naivasha adds a relaxing element to the day, and the tour is highly recommended by previous travelers.
With pickup and drop-off services, flexible scheduling, and competitive pricing, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Kenya’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Day Tour To Lake Nakuru Park With Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Day Tour To Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha.
Embarking on a day tour to Hell’s Gate National Park offers visitors an exhilarating blend of outdoor adventure and wildlife encounters.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 69 reviews, this private tour provides a Badge of Excellence experience. Guests can explore the park’s stunning landscapes by bike, led by professional guides.
Along the way, they may spot warthogs, giraffes, zebras, and even hippos in the nearby Lake Naivasha. The tour also includes an optional boat ride on the lake, allowing travelers to observe the diverse birdlife.
While entrance fees and activities incur additional costs, the overall experience provides a unique and flexible way to take in Kenya’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
What better way to explore the natural wonders of Kenya than a private tour to Mount Longonot and an optional boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha?
This highly-rated 5-star experience offers an unforgettable adventure. Hikers can enjoy the scenic views from the crater’s rim, while bird watchers and hippo enthusiasts can relax on a boat tour of Lake Naivasha.
With a knowledgeable, friendly guide, travelers can expect a personalized experience. Though the tour requires moderate fitness, the stunning landscapes make the effort worthwhile.
At just $125 per person, this private tour is an excellent value, with flexible booking and cancellation policies to accommodate any plans.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Small Group Budget Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
For those seeking an affordable yet enriching adventure, the Small Group Budget Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride offers a fantastic opportunity.
Priced from $60 per person, this tour by African Beast Tours and Safaris takes travelers on a captivating journey to explore Kenya’s natural wonders.
With a maximum capacity of 90 travelers, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a bicycle for Hells Gate, entrance fees, and a boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to spot diverse wildlife. The lunch at a scenic restaurant is an added highlight.
This budget-friendly tour provides an excellent way to discover the beauty of Nairobi’s surroundings.
Read our full review: Small Group Budget Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Review
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Private Layover Tour to Hells Gate National Park With Optional Boat Ride
Travelers seeking to maximize their Nairobi layover can embark on a captivating Private Layover Tour to Hells Gate National Park, which offers an immersive full-day experience.
The tour combines hiking, biking, and an optional boat ride, providing visitors with a comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s iconic landscapes. Highlights include a 2-hour cycling tour, a visit to the park’s dramatic gorges, and a chance to spot birds and hippos during the optional boat cruise on Lake Naivasha.
Convenient door-to-door airport transfers, a stop at the Great Rift Valley View Point, and a provided lunch make this tour a well-rounded and comfortable experience.
With positive reviews and flexible booking options, this private tour is an excellent choice for layover travelers.
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Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Guided Tour From Nairobi
Gracepatt Ecotours Kenya offers a guided Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Tour from Nairobi, allowing visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
Priced from ₹16,923.44 per person, the tour includes park entrance fees, bike rental, and a boat ride. With a maximum of 7 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Pickup is available at Airbnb, private apartments, and villas, with a start time of 7:00 AM. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Guests can enjoy a lunch at their own expense.
The tour has a 5-star rating based on a single review, and offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Hells Gate and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Guided Tour From Nairobi Review
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Hells Gate: Park/bike Ride/walk In The Gorge/lunch/boat Ride
Embarking on the “Hells Gate: Park/bike Ride/walk In The Gorge/lunch/boat Ride” adventure from Nairobi offers visitors an exhilarating opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of the region.
Operated by Wasili Kenya Safaris, this full-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through Hells Gate National Park, where they can enjoy a bike ride and a walk through the dramatic gorge.
After a delicious lunch, you will embark on a boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
Priced from €98.73 per person, this activity accommodates up to 99 travelers and includes park entry fees, bike rental, and the boat ride.
With a 5-star rating based on reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Nairobi.
Read our full review: Hells Gate: Park/bike Ride/walk In The Gorge/lunch/boat Ride Review
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Lake Nakuru Park/Lakenaivasha Boat Ride Riftvalley Day Trip
For those seeking to explore the stunning landscapes of Kenya’s Rift Valley, the “Lake Nakuru Park/Lake Naivasha Boat Ride” day trip from Nairobi offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Operated by Wasili Kenya Safaris, this tour takes travelers on a journey through Lake Nakuru National Park and a boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha. Priced from $180 per person, the tour includes transport, a professional guide, park fees, lunch, and bottled water.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this intimate group experience allows for personalized attention. Pickup is available from Nairobi hotels, residences, or the airport, and the tour ends back at the meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: Lake Nakuru Park/Lakenaivasha Boat Ride Riftvalley Day Trip Review
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Safari Day Trip – Hell Gate, Lake Naivasha Birds Boat Safari & Crescent Walk
This exciting full-day safari takes travelers on an adventure through the dramatic landscapes of Hell’s Gate National Park, followed by a serene boat safari on Lake Naivasha and a nature walk in the Crescent Island Sanctuary.
Priced from ₹13,363.44 per person, the private tour includes pickup and drop-off in Nairobi, an experienced guide, and optional activities like biking in Hell’s Gate and a boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
With a moderate fitness level required, visitors can expect stunning views, diverse wildlife, and an immersive experience in Kenya’s natural wonders.
The tour’s five-star rating and positive reviews highlight the guide’s expertise in enhancing the overall experience.
Read our full review: Safari Day Trip – Hell Gate, Lake Naivasha Birds Boat Safari & Crescent Walk Review
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Private Day Tour Nakuru National Park & Boat Ride
Travelers seeking a captivating wildlife experience can embark on a private day tour to Nakuru National Park and enjoy a serene boat ride.
Operated by Wasili Kenya Safaris, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes pickup and drop-off, a game drive, a boat ride, and lunch. Priced from €192.51 per person, the tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers and provides drinking water, park entry fees, and gratuity.
Visitors can opt for a direct meeting point or request pickup, and they should carry a credit card for park entry payments. The tour starts at 5:00 AM, and participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour Nakuru National Park & Boat Ride Review
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Hells Gate Park & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Tour
Embark on an exhilarating group tour that whisks travelers to Hells Gate Park and the serene waters of Lake Naivasha.
The tour includes round-trip transport from Nairobi, a knowledgeable guide, and a bike ride through stunning scenery where you might spot giraffes and zebras.
Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Lake Naivasha and a delicious lunch.
With a maximum of 99 travelers, this small-group experience ensures personalized attention.
Flexibility is key, as you can choose hotel pickup or a designated meeting point, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.
At €144.38 per person, this all-inclusive day trip offers an exceptional value for nature lovers.
Read our full review: Hells Gate Park & Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Day Tour Review
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1 Day Hiking Mt Longonot With Optional Boat Ride From Nairobi
Adventurous travelers can conquer the dramatic slopes of Mount Longonot on a private day hike from Nairobi.
The one-day tour, operated by Day to Day Tours and Safaris, starts at $103.85 per person. Hikers will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, and a knowledgeable driver/guide.
An optional boat ride on the scenic Lake Naivasha is available for an additional $25 per person. The tour includes bottled water and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Visitors should dress in smart casual attire and be prepared for a moderate hike. This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Kenya’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: 1 Day Hiking Mt Longonot With Optional Boat Ride From Nairobi Review
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Mt Longonot Hiking Tour With Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure near Nairobi, the Mt Longonot Hiking Tour with Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha delivers an unforgettable experience.
Priced from $140 per person, this tour allows travelers to hike the scenic Mt Longonot and optionally enjoy a boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha.
With hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an expert driver-guide, the tour caters to groups of up to 99 people.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the tour offers the flexibility of free cancellation and rescheduling.
The optional $25 boat ride at Lake Naivasha adds to the overall experience, making this tour a must-consider for nature enthusiasts visiting Nairobi.
Read our full review: Mt Longonot Hiking Tour With Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha Review
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Full Day at Crescent Island With Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
Explore the tranquil Crescent Island on a full-day adventure from Nairobi. Operated by City Sightseeing Tours, this tour includes a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, where you can spot hippos and birdlife.
The price starts from $192 per person, with hotel pickup, lunch, and admission fees included. The tour lasts around 7 hours, starting at 7 am. Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience. With its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, this Crescent Island tour is an excellent way to experience Kenya’s stunning landscapes.
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Lake Nakuru Tour With Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
Sabilom Kenya Tours & Safaris offers a captivating Lake Nakuru tour with an optional boat ride at Lake Naivasha, providing visitors a chance to enjoy the natural wonders of Kenya’s renowned national parks.
This full-day excursion starts with pickup from Nairobi and takes travelers to the stunning Lake Nakuru, known for its diverse wildlife, including the iconic flamingos. Guests can explore the park in a customized tour van and have the option to embark on a boat ride at the nearby Lake Naivasha.
The tour includes professional driver-guides, park entrance fees, and transport, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Participants can enjoy a lunch break during the tour, though it’s at their own expense.
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This shared safari walking tour in Naivasha allows visitors to explore the captivating natural wonders of the region.
The tour includes a boat ride on Lake Naivasha, providing a unique perspective of the serene waters and surrounding wildlife. Priced from €144.38 per person, the private tour ensures an intimate experience with only your group participating.
Accessibility is a key feature, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly. Moderate physical fitness is required, and infants can be accommodated.
Pickup is available from select locations in Gigiri, UNEP Avenue. The tour includes all fees and taxes, with lunch available at an additional cost.
Flexibility is ensured through the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Shared Safari Walking Tour in Naivasha With Boat Ride Review
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Nakuru National Park Day Tour With Optional Boat Ride Lake Naivasha
Set out on a captivating day tour of Nakuru National Park, with the option to enhance your experience by taking a boat ride on the serene waters of Lake Naivasha.
This private tour departs from Nairobi and is priced from $265 per person, depending on group size. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and park entry fees.
The optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha costs an additional $20 per person. While food and drinks aren’t included, gratuities are optional.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but most travelers can participate. Flexibility is offered, with free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Nakuru National Park Day Tour With Optional Boat Ride Lake Naivasha Review
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2 Days1 Night Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Rides Road Safari
Travelers can look forward to an exciting two-day, one-night safari that takes them to the breathtaking Lake Nakuru National Park and the serene Lake Naivasha, where they can enjoy thrilling boat rides.
Operated by Scenery Adventures Ltd., this private tour ensures a personalized experience for only your group. The tour includes meals, private transportation, insurance, tips, and drinks.
Departing from Nairobi, the safari is open for bookings from May 28, 2020, to June 29, 2025, with operating hours from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Pricing starts at $738.47 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.
Read our full review: 2 Days1 Night Lake Nakuru National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Rides Road Safari Review
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Private Day Tour to Lake Nakuru With Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
Embarking on a private day tour to Lake Nakuru offers travelers an opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of this renowned national park.
Operated by Bush Pumba Safaris, the tour starts at 6:00 AM and is priced from €215.95 per person, with the price varying based on group size.
The tour includes a driver/guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by safari vehicle with a pop-up rooftop, National Park fees, and the option to add a boat ride on Lake Naivasha for an additional €25.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a lowest price guarantee is offered.
Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Lake Nakuru With Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Private Crescent Island Tour and Boat Ride in Nairobi
One of the must-do activities in Nairobi is the Private Crescent Island Tour and Boat Ride, operated by Majestic Quest Tours and Travel.
The tour includes a private boat ride and a visit to Crescent Island, priced at $190 per person. The package includes transportation, a professional guide, bottled water, and entrance fees.
Pickup and drop-off are provided from your hotel or agreed-upon location within Nairobi. The tour starts at 6 AM and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for free, and gratuities aren’t included. This private tour ensures an intimate experience, with only your group participating.
Read our full review: Private Crescent Island Tour and Boat Ride in Nairobi Review
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Mt. Longonot Hiking With a Boat Ride in Lake Naivasha Guided Tour From Nairobi
This guided tour from Nairobi takes adventurers on a thrilling excursion to the iconic Mt. Longonot, followed by a relaxing boat ride in Lake Naivasha.
Priced from €134.75 per person, the tour includes pickup, transport, and a driver/guide. Participants will explore the volcanic crater and enjoy stunning views, though a moderate fitness level is required.
The tour also includes bottled water and optional alcoholic drinks. While not wheelchair accessible, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling up to 24 hours before, this tour provides flexibility and value for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience in Kenya.
Read our full review: Mt. Longonot Hiking With a Boat Ride in Lake Naivasha Guided Tour From Nairobi Review
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Day Tour to Hells Gate and Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
Adventurers exploring the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya can discover the thrilling Day Tour to Hells Gate and the optional boat ride at Lake Naivasha.
Operated by Wild Bond Tours and Safaris, this tour offers a chance to bike through the Hells Gate National Park and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, Hells Gate entry fees, bike rental, and a guide. Visitors can also opt for a $25 USD boat ride at Lake Naivasha.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, this day trip provides an exciting way to explore the natural wonders of the Maasai Mara region.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Hells Gate and Optional Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha Review
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Day Trip to Hells Gate With Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha
The Day Trip to Hells Gate with a boat ride at Lake Naivasha offers an exhilarating opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Kenya’s Rift Valley.
Operated by KT Safaris, this tour takes travelers from Nairobi to the stunning Hells Gate National Park, followed by a boat ride on the serene waters of Lake Naivasha.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a driver guide, safari van, admission fees, gratuities, and lunch, all for the price of $140 per person.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour starts at 6:30 AM and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible and convenient option for visitors to Nairobi.
Read our full review: Day Trip to Hells Gate With Boat Ride at Lake Naivasha Review
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Common Questions
Is Transportation to and From the Tour Locations Provided?
Many boat tour operators provide transportation to and from the tour locations as a convenience for their customers. The availability and specifics of this service may vary, so it’s best to check with each operator before booking.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for These Tours?
The maximum group size for these tours varies, but most operators accommodate groups of up to 20 people. Some may offer private tours for smaller groups or individuals, while larger groups may require special arrangements.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for Participants?
Most boat tour operators don’t have strict age or fitness level restrictions, allowing a wide range of participants. However, they may recommend certain tours for more active individuals or provide options for families with young children.
Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated on the Tours?
Many boat tour operators accommodate dietary requirements. They’re often able to provide vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free meals upon request. It’s best to inquire about specific dietary needs when booking the tour.
Are There Any Cancellation or Rescheduling Policies for These Tours?
Boat tour companies typically have flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies, allowing customers to make changes if needed. Many offer full refunds or the option to reschedule with no additional fees, providing customers with peace of mind when booking their excursions.
The Sum Up
Nairobi offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes. From the serene waters of Lake Naivasha to the dramatic scenery of Hells Gate National Park, these tours provide an opportunity to witness the diverse wildlife and picturesque vistas that Kenya is renowned for. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a more in-depth excursion, there’s a boat tour to suit your interests and preferences.