I recently took a matatu from Nairobi to Naivasha and spent only Ksh 3,200 at Lake Naivasha. Many people think that travelling in Kenya must cost a lot, let me give you the details
Here is the full breakdown:
Budget at a glance (per person)
- Transport (return): Ksh 500 to 800
- Accommodation: Ksh 1,000 to 1,500
- Food and water: Ksh 600 to 800
- Activities: Free to Ksh 500
- Misc: Ksh 200 to 400
Total: Ksh 2,700 to 3,800
1. Getting there and back (Ksh 500-800)
Matatus leave regularly from Nyamakima or Tea Room in Nairobi. Early morning departures are best. The trip takes 2 to 2.5 hours.
Tip: Ask the conductor to drop you near Karagita or main lake access points.
2. Accommodation (Ksh 1,000-1,500)
Skip expensive lakeside lodges. Ask boda boda riders or locals near the market for clean budget guesthouses. Single or double rooms often go for Ksh 800 to 1,500 per night. You can also do it as a day trip and save more.
3. Food (Ksh 600-800)
Eat local: chapati, rice, fish, or nyama choma near the market. Carry snacks and a reusable water bottle.
4. Activities (mostly free)
- Walk along the lake shore
- Visit Karagita beach for sunset
- Watch birds and hippos from a safe distance
- Enjoy the Rift Valley views
Optional: Short boat ride or cycling (Ksh 300-500).
Safety note: Keep a safe distance from the water, especially in the evening. Hippos are wild and can be aggressive.
Best time to visit:
June to September or December to March. Avoid long rains if possible.
What to pack:
Comfortable walking shoes, light jacket, sunscreen, hat, reusable water bottle, power bank, some cash.
Lake Naivasha gives you real Kenyan nature without safari prices. It’s the perfect starter trip before you go for bigger adventures like Maasai Mara.
Let The Wild Be Your Guide, even on a budget.
Written by Oliver Aswani, Founder of Apex African Safaris Contact Us
Have questions or want a custom itinerary? Email me your travel date and budget at apexafricansafaris@gmail.com
