I worked as a tour guide in Kenya for many years and spent most of my time off at Lake Naivasha. This is how I know the area so well and all the best places to stay in Lake Naivasha. There are many hotels and resorts at the lake itself but there are some fantastic campsites and even more cabins. If you want to keep the price down, I suggest tenting for a couple of nights but only if you have experience with camping. Let’s take a look at my top picks for where to stay in Lake Naivasha:

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Where to Stay in Lake Naivasha

Quick Answer:

Best Resort in Lake Naivasha – Sopa Resort

Best Cottage in Lake Naivasha – Karibu Cottage

Best Campsite in Lake Naivasha – Fisherman’s Camp

Best Cabins in Lake Naivasha (Camping also) – Camp Carnelley’s

Best Lodge in Lake Naivasha – Elsamere Lodge (Conservation Trust)

Best Resort in Lake Naivasha

Sopa Resort

Features – Swimming pool, lush surroundings, great location, nice rooms.

What I like about the Sopa Resort – Very comfortable rooms and amazing pool.

This is the best option if you are looking for the best hotel in Lake Naivasha or the best resort in Lake Naivasha. Sopa Resort is a tranquil retreat set amid lush gardens and acacia trees, offering breathtaking views of the lake. Known for its beautiful grounds and spacious rooms, the resort blends luxury with nature. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like boat rides on the lake, spotting hippos and diverse birdlife, or relaxing by the pool. The resort is conveniently located near Hell’s Gate National Park, perfect for adventurous hikes and wildlife exploration. With exceptional service, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery, Sopa Resort provides a peaceful escape for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.

Best Cottage in Lake Naivasha

Karibu Cottage

Features – Cottage is situated up a hill near the lake (not right next to the lake but close)

What I like about Karibu Cottage – Private, charming and surrounded by nature.

Nestled by the serene shores of Lake Naivasha, Karibu Cottage is a charming two-bedroom cottage offers an idyllic retreat. Surrounded by acacia trees, the cottage boasts stunning views of the lake and its tranquil surroundings. Just 90 minutes from Nairobi, it’s a perfect escape from the city’s hustle. Guests can enjoy a private garden, a cozy fireplace, and a library of books for peaceful evenings. With easy access to Hell’s Gate National Park, Mount Longonot, and Lake Olodien, the area offers endless outdoor adventures like hiking, boat rides, and wildlife exploration. Secure parking and short scenic walks complete this relaxing getaway.

Best Campsite in Lake Naivasha

Fishermans Camp

Features – Nice restaurant, beautiful views and grounds.

What I like about Fisherman’s Camp – Less developed and lots of natural features.

I’ve been camping at Fisherman’s since 2008 and in my opinion, it is one of the best places to stay in Lake Naivasha! I love how there is so much wide open space to walk around and the monkey’s etc seem to love it too! It feels less developed than other campsites like Carnelley’s next door and the restaurant offers really nice food. That said, please note the toilets, showers and other facilities are more basic than elsewhere. Also, order early at the restaurant because the food, while worth the wait, can take quite a long time to arrive.

Camp Carnelley’s

Features – Good facilities, great food, great staff.

What I like about Carnelley’s – The food and the toilets!!

Located right next to Fisherman’s Camp, Carnelley’s is like a modern version of its’ neighbor. You will find more cabins here and more maintenance and faster service at the restaurant. The toilet facilities are better too which makes this sound like the best campsite in Lake Naivasha right? I’m not sure. You see, the untouched nature of this area is what makes it beautiful and that’s something i really appreciate about Fisherman’s Camp next door. It really depends on your preference but either spot is great for a night or two and both are located in what i believe to be the nicest part of the lake.

Best Lodge in Lake Naivasha

Elsamere Lodge

Features – Stunning views, lots of wildlife, high tea and cakes!

What I like about Carnelley’s – Everything – especially the story behind the lodge!

You can visit Elsamere during the day to learn the story behind Elsa the lion. This was essentially the home of the Adamson’s who raised a lion on their property in the 1970’s. It was a big story at the time and you can watch a video in the lodge which explains everything. The gardens are frequented by monkey’s, hippo and a myriad of birdlife. The rooms are quaint and clean and there is an option to enjoy high tea with cakes each day. I love Elsamere and it is probably the most unique option in terms of the best places to stay in Lake Naivasha.