Lake Naivasha and Gorilla Trekking

For travellers seeking a safari that goes beyond the ordinary, combining a Lake Naivasha safari in Kenya with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda or Rwanda offers a journey rich in landscapes, wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This combination not only immerses you in Africa’s diverse ecosystems but also connects two of the continent’s most iconic wildlife encounters: vast savannah safaris and the rare mountain gorillas.

Why Combine Lake Naivasha & Gorilla Trekking?

• Two contrasting ecosystems in one trip: From the bird-filled freshwater lake of Naivasha to the misty rainforests where gorillas roam, travellers experience the breadth of East Africa’s biodiversity.
• Accessible travel route: Lake Naivasha sits on Kenya’s safari circuit, easily paired with flights to Entebbe or Kigali for gorilla trekking.
• Balanced safari pace: Lake Naivasha offers relaxed boat rides and walking safaris, while gorilla trekking is more adventurous and active an ideal balance for safari enthusiasts.
• Unforgettable photography opportunities: Capture hippos basking in Lake Naivasha, giraffes browsing along Crescent Island, and the piercing eyes of a silverback gorilla in the wild.

Highlights of Lake Naivasha Safari

• Boat Safaris: Glide across the freshwater lake surrounded by hippos, fish eagles, and more than 350 bird species.
• Crescent Island: Walk among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in a predator-free sanctuary.
• Nearby Parks: Explore Hell’s Gate National Park, famous for its dramatic cliffs, gorges, and cycling safaris, or Lake Nakuru National Park, home to rhinos and flamingos.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Naivasha is ideal for unwinding between game drives in Kenya’s busier reserves.

Highlights of Gorilla Trekking

• Close Encounters: Spend an hour with a gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) or Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)—a humbling and transformative experience.
• Scenic Hikes: Trek through lush rainforests, bamboo zones, and cloud-draped mountains.
• Conservation Impact: Every permit supports gorilla conservation and benefits local communities.
• Unique Wildlife: Besides gorillas, you may see golden monkeys, forest elephants, and colourful birdlife.

Best Time to Go

• Lake Naivasha: Best visited in the dry seasons (June–October & December–February) when roads are passable, and wildlife is easier to spot.
• Gorilla Trekking: Also best during the dry seasons (June–August & December–February) when forest trails are less slippery.

Combining both in June–October gives you perfect weather for both destinations, coinciding with the Great Migration in Kenya for travellers who want to extend their safari.

Planning the Combination

1. Start in Kenya: Enjoy a safari circuit at Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara, or Amboseli.
2. Fly to Uganda or Rwanda: Connect via Nairobi or direct regional flights to Entebbe or Kigali.
3. Trek the Gorillas: Choose between Uganda’s Bwindi or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park depending on time, budget, and preferences.
4. Accommodation Choices:
   • Lake Naivasha: Mid-range lodges by the lake or luxury eco-lodges.
   • Bwindi / Volcanoes: Intimate lodges or high-end forest retreats.
5. Permits: Book gorilla permits well in advance.
6. Safari Operator: Partner with a trusted company like Otter African Safaris, which will design your itinerary, arrange permits, and ensure smooth logistics.

Plan Your Dream Safari the Right Way

A Lake Naivasha safari and Gorilla Trekking expedition blends tranquillity, adventure, and wildlife encounters that few destinations in the world can match. Whether it’s the thrill of locking eyes with a gorilla or the peaceful moments drifting on Naivasha’s waters, this safari duo creates an unforgettable East African story.

At Otter African Safaris, we specialise in crafting seamless journeys that combine Kenya’s scenic treasures with Uganda or Rwanda’s primate adventures. Let us design your next safari where every detail, from lakeside sunsets to gorilla encounters, comes together in harmony.

Contact us: info@otterafricansafaris.com or otterafricansafaris94@gmail.com
Visit: www.otterafricansafaris.com
Call: +256773945555 or +256773932802. #OtterAfricanMagic.