Finding good boat tours from Nairobi means heading to nearby lakes, where the real action happens. Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru offer the most rewarding water experiences, both just a few hours from the city. I especially love the Hell’s Gate combo tours – you get both an exciting national park visit and a peaceful boat ride where hippos and countless birds make regular appearances. For the best value, the small group tours to Lake Naivasha pack in plenty of wildlife viewing without breaking the bank. The Lake Nakuru excursions, while pricier, are worth it for the flamingo sightings and comprehensive park experience.
Let’s explore the best boat tours you can book from Nairobi.
Key Points
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The Lake Nakuru Park Tour offers a private guided experience with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including flamingos and hippos.
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The Full Day Lake Nakuru Park Tour provides a comprehensive 11.5-hour excursion with morning and afternoon game drives, along with an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
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The Private Tour to Mount Longonot includes a guided hike to the summit of an extinct volcano with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
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The Small Group Budget Tour from African Beast Tours and Safaris offers an affordable option with hotel pickup, transportation, bicycle rentals, and lunch.
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The Hell’s Gate National Park Tour provides a personalized experience with a private guide, featuring activities such as bicycling, rock climbing, and bird watching, along with an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
Day Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
Nestled just an hour’s drive from the bustling city of Nairobi, the Day Tour to Hell’s Gate National Park and the optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha offer visitors a chance to escape the urban landscape and enjoy the breathtaking natural wonders of Kenya.
With a 4.9-star rating and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is highly recommended by 98% of travelers.
Led by a private guide, the experience includes bicycling, rock climbing, and bird watching in the park, followed by a refreshing boat ride on the serene Lake Naivasha.
Travelers can enjoy the convenience of pickup from their accommodation and the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Hells Gate National 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
The Day Tour To Lake Nakuru Park with Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to explore two of Kenya’s premier wildlife destinations.
Departing from Nairobi, the private guided experience includes a visit to the flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru and the hippo-rich Lake Naivasha. Guests can spot a variety of birds and animals, and even enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha.
The tour includes door-to-door transfers, live commentary from a knowledgeable guide, and has earned a 100% traveler recommendation from 76 reviews.
With a Badge of Excellence and competitive pricing, this day tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a wildlife-focused adventure near Nairobi.
Read our full review: Day Tour To Lake Nakuru Park With 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 Lake Nakuru Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha tour offers visitors an immersive wildlife experience just outside Nairobi.
Priced at $60 per person, the 11.5-hour excursion includes a private guide, morning and afternoon game drives in Lake Nakuru National Park, and the option to add a boat ride on Lake Naivasha for $25 extra.
Travelers can expect to see diverse wildlife like white rhinos, hippos, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions, as well as stunning scenery like the Great Rift Valley.
With a 4.7-star rating and 95% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an excellent value for those seeking a comprehensive Kenyan safari experience near the capital.
Read our full review: Full Day Lake Nakuru Park and 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.
A popular day tour from Nairobi, the Day Tour To Hells Gate National Park and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha offers visitors an exhilarating exploration of this stunning region.
Rated 4.9 out of 69 reviews, the private tour includes cycling through Hells Gate, spotting diverse wildlife, and an optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha. Priced from €62.55 per person, the tour provides private transportation, a professional guide, and lunch.
While the park entry fee and cycling cost extra, the experience is highly recommended, with 100% of travelers endorsing it. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic landscapes, though the boat ride may be overpriced.
Moderate fitness is required, and cash is advised for optional activities.
Read our full review: Day Tour to Hells Gate National Park 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
Exploring the stunning landscapes of Hells Gate National Park and the serene waters of Lake Naivasha needn’t break the bank.
The Small Group Budget Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride offers an affordable way to experience these natural wonders. Operated by African Beast Tours and Safaris, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable driver-guide, bicycle rentals, park entrance fees, a boat ride, and lunch – all for as little as $60 per person.
With a 93% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this budget-friendly tour provides an excellent value. Travelers rave about the friendly guides, safe transport, and unforgettable experiences, making it a top choice for those seeking an adventurous yet cost-conscious day trip from Nairobi.
Read our full review: Small Group Budget Tour to Hells Gate National Park and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride Review
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Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha
For those seeking an adventurous day trip from Nairobi, the Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha offers an unbeatable combination of natural wonders.
With a 94% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this full-day experience takes visitors on a guided hike to the summit of an extinct volcano, offering sweeping views of the Great Rift Valley.
The optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha provides opportunities for birdwatching and spotting hippos.
The tour includes pickup, transport, and park fees, while a knowledgeable English-speaking guide ensures a seamless experience.
Priced from €120.28 per person, this private tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Nairobi.
Read our full review: Private Tour to Mount Longonot and Optional Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha Review
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Recap
Nairobi offers a variety of exciting cruise and boat tour options, from exploring Hells Gate National Park and Lake Nakuru to relaxing on Lake Naivasha. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly group tour or a private excursion, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences. With breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife encounters, these boat tours provide an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Nairobi.