Great Rift Valley in Kenya: Lakes, Escarpments and Safaris Near Nairobi
The Great Rift Valley runs through Kenya from north to south. Just one to two hours by road from Nairobi, the escarpment opens onto a vast trench of volcanoes and lakes. It is the easiest region to combine with the capital: you can do a walking or cycling safari, a boat trip among hippos and a flamingo park without taking a flight. The most visited stops are Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate and Lake Nakuru, often covered in two days before the Masai Mara.
Highlights
The escarpment viewpoint
On the old Nairobi–Naivasha road, viewpoints overlook the valley; craft sellers set up there and prices are negotiable. The stop is free and takes a few minutes.
Lake Naivasha
A freshwater lake at about 1,900 m, known for hippos and birdlife; see Lake Naivasha.
Hell's Gate
A park where you walk and cycle among giraffes, zebras and buffalo; see Hell's Gate.
Lake Nakuru
A national park famous for its flamingos and rhinos; see Lake Nakuru National Park.
Practical info
Tips
- Leave Nairobi early to avoid the traffic out of the west side. The Nairobi–Naivasha road is busy with trucks, so avoid driving at night. Most travellers sleep in Naivasha or Nakuru; see where to stay in Kenya and the 10-day itinerary. KWS raised park entry fees in October 2025 and the increase was challenged in court: confirm the current rates before you go.
How to get there
Naivasha is about 90 km from Nairobi, 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic; Nakuru is about 160 km, around 3 hours. By car with a driver, on an organised minibus tour or by public minibus (matatu); rental cars drive on the left.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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