Crater Lake Naivasha: a small lake in a volcanic rim
Crater Lake is a small crater lake west of the main lake. The Crater Lake Game Sanctuary surrounds it. The sanctuary is private land, not a national park, so the KWS tariff does not apply there. Paths run along the crater rim.
The lake sits in its own crater. It is not a bay of Lake Naivasha. That is why it differs from the large freshwater lake, where Lake Naivasha boat rides leave from several landing points.
Lake Oloiden
The small lake next to Lake Naivasha.
Lake Oloiden lies beside the main lake. Freshwater has flowed in from Lake Naivasha in the past, and the birds and fish living there have changed. How salty the water is depends on the water level, so do not expect one fixed condition. Boat trips on Oloiden are offered. Ask about the rate and the season when you book.
Flamingo numbers at the small lakes have varied a lot over the years, and in some years none were seen. Do not plan a day around flamingos. If they are your goal, see the Lake Nakuru flamingo guide.
Our pick: Crater Lake plus Crescent Island
This is the tour that visits the Crater Lake sanctuary, and it adds Crescent Island with a boat ride and lunch.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Lake Naivasha boat rides and day tours
Boat trips, hikes and day trips around the lake, with live prices and availability.
The three lakes at a glance
Each lake offers a different kind of visit.
| Lake | What it is | Typical visit | Check first |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Naivasha | Large freshwater lake in the Rift Valley | Boat rides, hippos, Crescent Island | Water level, landing points |
| Crater Lake | Small crater lake in a private sanctuary | Walks on the crater rim | Entry rate, opening times |
| Lake Oloiden | Small lake next to the main lake | Boat trips, birds | Boat rate, water conditions |
For most visitors with one day, start with a Lake Naivasha boat ride and add the small lakes only if you have a second half-day.
Visiting Crater Lake and Oloiden
What to ask before you go.
Entry rates
The sanctuary charges per person. Rates differ for citizens, residents and non-residents. The operator sets them, so check the current rate before you go.
Opening times
Ask for the days and hours when you book. Do not assume the sanctuary is open every day.
Walking
The rim trails give views over the small lake. Bring water, a hat and sturdy shoes. Ask about the length of the loop on arrival.
Water levels
Lake levels in the area have risen since 2010, and shores and tracks change with them. Ask whether paths and landing points are open on the day.
Swimming
Do not assume swimming is allowed in any of the lakes. Ask first, and keep in mind that hippos live in the main lake.
Hippo safety →The Rift Valley setting
Why the lakes differ.
All three lakes lie in the southern Rift Valley of Kenya. Lake Naivasha is fed by the Malewa and Gilgil rivers and has no visible outflow. Water leaves underground, which helps explain why the main lake stays fresh. Crater Lake sits in a separate volcanic crater, so it has its own water and its own conditions.
The main lake has also changed in size. The lake rose by up to about 7 m between 2010 and 2026, and its water surface is about 40 percent larger, roughly 50 km² more. For you this means shores, tracks and landing points that older maps do not show. Ask your operator what is open before you drive out.
Bring water, sun protection and a hat. Rim trails have little shade, and you should not count on buying supplies at a private sanctuary.
Plan the rest of your trip
Stops that fit with the small lakes.
Crater Lake and Lake Oloiden: frequently asked questions
What is Crater Lake in Naivasha?
It is a small crater lake west of Lake Naivasha. A private game sanctuary surrounds it, with walking paths along the crater rim.
Is Lake Oloiden part of Lake Naivasha?
It is a separate small lake beside the main lake. Freshwater has flowed in from Lake Naivasha, and its water conditions change with the water level.
Will I see flamingos?
Flamingo numbers vary a lot from year to year, and in some years none are seen. Treat flamingos as a possible bonus, not a reason for the trip.
How much does Crater Lake cost?
The sanctuary is private and sets its own rates per person, with different rates for citizens, residents and non-residents. Ask for the current rate before you go.
Can I swim in the lakes?
Do not assume it is allowed. Ask the operator first. Hippos live in the main lake.
Is this site the official Crater Lake website?
No. This is an independent travel guide. It is not run by the sanctuary, KWS or any boat operator.