After an exhausting morning spent cycling through Hell’s Gate or scrambling up the steep ash trails hiking Mount Longonot, your body is going to demand two things: a cold drink and some serious carbohydrates. When that craving hits, there is one undisputed heavyweight champion: Pizza in Naivasha at Lazybones Restaurant at Camp Carnelley’s, with friends and family.
For years, Camp Carnelley’s has been the vibrant, beating heart of the South Lake Road backpacker and expat scene. While the camp itself offers excellent accommodation and lake activities, its in-house restaurant, Lazybones, has become a destination in its own right. Famous for its bohemian aesthetic, legendary wood-fired pizzas, and incredibly relaxed atmosphere, it is the perfect spot to kick back, share stories of your safari, and refuel.
Here is exactly why a meal at Lazybones needs to be on your Naivasha itinerary.
The Unbeatable Lakeside Vibe while having Pizza in Naivasha at Lazybones Restaurant
Lazybones does not do stiff, formal dining. The entire ethos of the restaurant is right there in the name: it is a place to be delightfully lazy. You can learn more about this place to eat in Naivasha in our complete review.
- The Decor: The restaurant features a distinct, rustic-chic design. Think giant, overstuffed cushions, low-slung wooden tables, intricate tapestries, and open, airy spaces that let the lake breeze flow straight through the dining area.
- The Soundtrack of Nature: Because the restaurant is nestled beneath a thick canopy of ancient acacia trees, the ambient noise is completely natural. You will hear the haunting cries of African Fish Eagles, the rustling of Black and White Colobus monkeys swinging in the branches directly above your table, and the occasional deep grunt of a hippo from the nearby shoreline.
- The Crowd: It is a fantastic melting pot. On any given afternoon, you will find Nairobi residents down for the weekend, international backpackers comparing travel notes, and local guides taking a well-deserved break. It is arguably the best place in Naivasha to socialize and make new friends.
The Star of the Show: Wood-Fired Pizza in Naivasha at Lazybones Restaurant
While the menu at Lazybones is extensive, the undisputed crowd-favorite is their authentic, wood-fired pizza. In fact, many Nairobians will gladly make the two-hour drive to Naivasha solely to grab a slice.
- The Brick Oven: The pizzas are baked in a massive, custom-built, wood-burning brick oven located right in the kitchen. The high heat from the local wood gives the crust that perfect, irresistible combination: chewy on the inside, with a beautiful, blistered char on the outside.
- Fresh, Local Ingredients: The culinary team prides itself on utilizing Naivasha’s rich agricultural output. The tomatoes are sun-ripened, the mozzarella is rich and creamy, and the herbs are incredibly fresh.
- The Menu: Whether you are a purist who swears by a simple, classic Margherita with fresh basil, or an adventurer looking to try an overloaded meat-lovers pie, there is something for everyone. They also accommodate dietary restrictions with excellent vegetarian options.
Beyond the Pizza: A Global Menu
If pizza isn’t calling your name, do not worry. Lazybones has a highly diverse menu that caters to a wide array of palates, pulling inspiration from around the globe.
- Hearty Breakfasts: If you are staying at the camp or simply passing through early in the morning, their breakfast menu is legendary. From classic English fry-ups to thick pancakes and rich, locally brewed Kenyan coffee, it is the best way to start a day of exploring.
- Local and International Mains: The lunch and dinner menus feature everything from comforting British-style fish and chips and loaded American burgers to spicy Mexican nachos. If you want to sample the local cuisine, they serve fantastic Kenyan staples like tender beef stew with Sukuma Wiki (collard greens) and Ugali.
- The Bar: The Lazybones bar is fully stocked and staffed by incredibly friendly bartenders. After a long hike, there is nothing quite like ordering an ice-cold Tusker beer or trying one of their signature, refreshing cocktails to wash down the dust of the Rift Valley.
Practical Tips for Your Visit for Pizza in Naivasha at Lazybones Restaurant
To make the most of your Lazybones experience, here are a few insider tips to keep in mind:
- Location: Camp Carnelley’s is located right on Moi South Lake Road, making it incredibly easy to access by private car or local matatu (minibus).
- Combine with a Boat Ride: Camp Carnelley’s has its own private jetty and a fleet of boats. A highly recommended itinerary is to book a late afternoon hippo-watching boat safari directly through the camp’s reception, and time it so you step off the boat and immediately sit down for dinner and drinks at Lazybones.
- Weekends get Busy: Because of its immense popularity, the restaurant can get packed on Friday nights and Saturday afternoons. If you are traveling with a large group, it is wise to arrive a bit early to secure one of the coveted large lounge areas with the floor cushions.
- Child Friendly: The expansive, bushy grounds are incredibly safe and feature plenty of space for kids to run around and explore while you wait for your food, making it a stress-free dining option for families.
Lazybones at Camp Carnelley’s offers the perfect trifecta of amazing food, stunning natural ambiance, and a welcoming community feel. It is not just a meal; it is a quintessential Naivasha experience.