Nairobi to Lake-naivasha-national-park

Traveling from Nairobi to Naivasha by bus is a popular and affordable option. The distance between Nairobi and Naivasha is approximately 90 kilometers, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Boarding Points

The main boarding points for buses and matatus heading to Naivasha are located in the central parts of Nairobi. Key areas where you can catch these services include:

• Nyamakima Stage: This is one of the busiest bus terminals in Nairobi for travelers heading to Naivasha. You will find several buses and matatus that depart regularly throughout the day.
• Odeon Cinema Stage: Located in the CBD (Central Business District), Odeon is another popular departure point. Buses and matatus heading to Naivasha are readily available here, especially during the morning hours.
• Accra Road Terminal: This is another reliable terminal where buses to Naivasha depart frequently.

Bus Timings
Buses and matatus from Nairobi to Naivasha start departing as early as 6:00 AM and continue at frequent intervals throughout the day, usually every 20 to 30 minutes. The service runs until late in the evening, around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM, depending on the demand and the bus company.

• Morning departures are usually less crowded, and the journey is faster due to lighter traffic.
• Mid-day and late afternoon trips can experience heavier traffic, particularly around Nairobi and near Naivasha during peak hours.

Booking 
You can book a bus using several websites such as Buupass, Kiwibuses, Quickbus etc.

Route Taken 
Buses and matatus from Nairobi to Naivasha generally take the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway (A104). This route is a major highway connecting Nairobi to several towns, including Naivasha. The drive along this route provides scenic views of the Great Rift Valley, with several designated viewpoints offering stunning vistas.

Major Stops Along the Route:

• Limuru: Some buses may make brief stops at Limuru town, especially matatus that pick up or drop off passengers along the way.
• Mai Mahiu: Another common stop is in Mai Mahiu, a town located around halfway between Nairobi and Naivasha.

Costs
Standard Fare: Typically ranges between KES 200 to KES 300 depending on the bus company, time of day, and whether you're traveling on a weekday or weekend.
Premium Buses: Some bus companies offer more comfortable services with slightly higher fares, ranging between KES 400 and KES 500. Matatus on the other hand are slightly cheaper ranging between KES 100-200

For the most reliable service, it is advisable to arrive at the terminal early in the day to secure a seat, especially if you plan to travel during peak hours or holidays.

Driving from Nairobi to Naivasha gives you flexibility and the opportunity to explore the route at your own pace. The distance is approximately 90 kilometers, and the drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Route: The most common route is via the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway (A104), which is a well-maintained road with stunning views of the Great Rift Valley. There are several viewpoints along the way where you can stop for photos.

Popular Car Rental Operators: Avis Kenya, Hertz Kenya , Europcar Kenya, Kenya Car Rentals

Costs:

• Pricing: Daily rates for sedans start around KES 4,000, while 4x4 rentals range from KES 8,000 to KES 12,000, depending on the vehicle's specifications.  A standard sedan would be on the lower end, while an SUV or 4x4 would be more expensive. 
• Fuel Costs: Depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, expect to spend around KES 1,500 to KES 2,500 for fuel for the round trip.
• Additional Charges: Some rental companies may charge extra for GPS, child seats, or additional drivers. Insurance is usually included but it’s wise to check the coverage.
• Parking Fees: Parking fees may apply near attractions in Naivasha, such as Lake Naivasha or Hell’s Gate National Park.

Recommendations:

• Plan Ahead: Book your car rental in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• Vehicle Choice: Consider renting a 4x4 if you plan to explore off-road areas or national parks near Naivasha, such as Hell’s Gate or Mt. Longonot.
• Documentation: Ensure you have a valid driver’s license and check if an international driving permit (IDP) is required. Additionally, keep the car’s rental agreement and insurance documents handy while traveling.
• Road Conditions: The road conditions are generally good, but be cautious of heavy trucks along the highway, as this is a major transport route. If you're planning to visit attractions like Hell's Gate National Park or Crescent Island, having your own vehicle is advantageous for easier access.

If you're looking for air travel, chartered flights are possible for tourists or private travelers using Wilson Airport in Nairobi and landing at nearby private airstrips like Loldia Airstrip near Naivasha. Most visitors opt to travel by road as Naivasha is relatively close to Nairobi (about 90 kilometers away), making road travel the more common and practical option.

Booking
Chartered flights between Nairobi and Naivasha are typically booked through private aviation companies or specialized travel agencies that offer customized air travel for individuals or small groups. Some of the key companies offering these services include Safarilink, Fly-SAX, and Air Kenya. Flights are arranged upon request, and you can book through their websites, via email, or through a phone call. Private companies like Phoenix Aviation and Tropic Air Kenya also offer chartered services.

Frequency
Chartered flights do not operate on a fixed schedule. Instead, they are organized based on the traveler's preference, meaning flights can be arranged to depart at any time of day depending on the availability of the aircraft and crew. This makes it a highly flexible travel option, especially for those looking to avoid the time constraints of scheduled commercial flights.

Cost
The cost of a chartered flight from Nairobi to Naivasha depends on the type of aircraft, the number of passengers, and additional services requested. Generally, prices range from KES 145,000. ($1,000 USD) to KES 435,000 ($3,000 USD) for a one-way flight for a small group of passengers (2-4 people). The price may vary based on the type of aircraft (e.g., single-engine plane vs. a private jet), additional services like in-flight catering, and landing fees.

Important Details
Departure and Landing: Charter flights typically depart from Wilson Airport in Nairobi and land at private airstrips near Naivasha, such as Loldia Airstrip or Kongoni Airstrip.

Custom Requests: You can often tailor the flight experience to your preferences, such as adding scenic detours over national parks, arranging for specific in-flight services, or organizing transfers upon arrival.

Flight Duration: The flight from Nairobi to Naivasha takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Flexibility: One of the biggest advantages of chartering a flight is the flexibility in terms of timing and routes. Flights can be arranged around your schedule, and you can avoid the delays and hassles typically associated with road travel. Additionally, chartered flights often allow you to access smaller, more remote locations that commercial airlines cannot reach.

Safety and Regulations: Private aviation companies in Kenya follow strict safety guidelines. Aircraft are maintained to the highest standards, and pilots are typically experienced in flying both tourists and business travelers to remote parts of the country.