Maasai Mara Safari

Where Nature Walks Beside You Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is one of Kenya’s most enchanting and underrated wildlife spots. Nestled on the eastern shores of Lake Naivasha, this private sanctuary is a rare place where visitors can walk freely among wild animals no vehicles, no predators, just pure nature. Located just two hours from Nairobi, Crescent Island is the perfect addition to your Rift Valley safari itinerary, offering a peaceful, up-close encounter with Kenya’s beautiful landscapes and wildlife. A Living Paradise on the Lake The sanctuary sits on a peninsula formed from the rim of an extinct volcano, creating rolling grasslands and sweeping 360-degree views of Mount Longonot, the Aberdare Range, and Mau Escarpment. Crescent Island is home to a rich collection of wildlife giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, waterbucks, and gazelles all roam freely here. The absence of large predators makes it one of the safest and most relaxing safari walks in Kenya. It’s also a haven for bird lovers, hosting over 200 species including fish eagles, pelicans, cormorants, and herons that thrive in the lake’s freshwater ecosystem. The Crescent Island Experience Unlike traditional game drives, Crescent Island offers a guided walking safari that feels intimate and liberating. Visitors can walk side by side with giraffes, observe herds of zebra grazing at arm’s length, and enjoy the sound of nature uninterrupted by engines. You can access the sanctuary either: By boat across Lake Naivasha (a stunning scenic ride), or By road via the sanctuary’s private entrance, depending on the lake’s water levels. For photographers and filmmakers, this is one of Kenya’s most cinematic locations used in the iconic 1980s film Out of Africa. Opening Hours & Visitor Information Opening time: 8:30 AM Last entry: 4:30 PM Closing time: 5:45 PM (visitors must leave before dusk due to hippo movement) Location: Lake Naivasha, Rift Valley, Kenya Distance from Nairobi: Approx. 90 km (2 hours by road) Entrance: Payable at the gate or official dock always request a valid receipt from the sanctuary. Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, water bottle, and binoculars if you’re into birdwatching. Why We Recommend Crescent Island At KenyaOnABudgetSafaris, we believe travel should be authentic, ethical, and enriching. Crescent Island is a model of eco-friendly tourism that aligns perfectly with those values. It’s ideal for: ✅ Families looking for a safe, relaxed nature walk. ✅ Diplomats or NGO clients seeking tranquil, exclusive environments. ✅ Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts craving intimate encounters. ✅ Couples and small groups wanting an immersive experience beyond the vehicle. We often pair Crescent Island with Lake Naivasha boat rides, Hell’s Gate cycling adventures, or a Mount Longonot hike for a full-day Rift Valley experience. Pro Tip for Premium Travellers For guests on our Executive Safari Packages, we can arrange: Early-morning private access for golden-hour photography. Tailored conservation talks with local guides. Sundowner picnics overlooking the lake (with required sanctuary permission). These exclusive touches elevate a simple excursion into an unforgettable, world-class memory. Final Thoughts Crescent Island is more than a sanctuary it’s a reminder of how harmonious life can be when humans and wildlife share space respectfully. Whether you’re exploring Kenya for the first time or curating a once-in-a-lifetime itinerary, a walk at Crescent Island is an experience that connects you to nature in its purest form. Plan Your Visit with KenyaOnABudgetSafaris 📍 Destination: Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, Lake Naivasha 🌍 Coordinates: 0.7785° S, 36.3870° E 🌐 Official site: www.crescentisland.co