North Lake Road is one of Naivasha’s most “peaceful” corridors. If South Lake Road feels like the action route toward major park gates and busy weekend energy, North Lake Road often feels more like slow living by the water—acacia woodland, open skies, and a steady rhythm of lake activities.
Table of Contents
Quick Snapshot
- Location / direction: Runs along the north / northwestern side of Lake Naivasha, often referred to as Moi North Lake Road.
- What it’s known for: Quiet lakeside scenery, birdlife, private ranch/lodge stays, and boat connections to key lake activities.
- Vibe / lifestyle: Calm, green, and “more countryside” compared to town—ideal for people who like space and nature.
- Who it suits: Weekend visitors, birders, families seeking quieter living, and anyone wanting a lake-adjacent base.
- Access / transport: Best with a car for daily convenience; some areas are spread out and last-mile transport can add up.
Overview
It’s popular for lakeside stays, and it also has growing interest for residential living, especially for people who want a quieter home environment while still staying within reach of Naivasha Town.
Where It Is and How to Get There
North Lake Road branches out from the wider Naivasha area toward the north/northwestern lakeshore. The Lake Naivasha Ramsar documentation references the area around the junction of Moi North Lake Road, which helps confirm the road name and its relevance in the lake zone.
Travel operators also note that some properties on the northwestern shore sit off North Lake Road, reinforcing it as a key access route to the quieter lake side.
To get to North Lake via Matatu (mini buses), make your way towards Mbaria Kaniu Road, opposite where the G4S office is located. There you’ll find the public transport stage ( stage ya Nakuru) that has matatu’s heading towards Kasarani town / Great Rift Valley Lodge (GRVL), which is on North Lake. The average charge to North Lake from Naivasha town ranges from Ksh 100 up to 150 Ksh, depending on the type of matatu you take.
Another option to get to North lake from Naivasha is by taking a Taxi. The cost of taking one ranges from Ksh 1500 – Ksh 2500. Also note that Uber and Bolt are available in Naivasha for those who prefer using digital taxi apps.
Popular attractions and areas in Naivasha North Lake
As I have highlighted above, Naivasha North Lake doesn’t have as many activities compared to South lake. But the main attractions on this side of the lake are:
- The Great Rift Valley Lodge (GRVL)
- Malewa Bay
- Loldia Airstrip
- Eburu Hills
- Kasarani town centre
- Morendat Training and conference centre
What the Area Feels Like (Lifestyle + community + typical housing)
North Lake Road is typically:
- More spread out: Homes, farms, and lodges can sit on larger plots, so you’ll notice more space between “neighbours.”
- Nature-forward: Expect strong birdlife and classic lake-country scenery because Lake Naivasha is a shallow freshwater lake surrounded by acacia woodland.
- Lifestyle-oriented: Many people choose the area for calm, views, and fresh air—rather than “walkable errands.”
Housing patterns vary by pocket, but common options include standalone houses, small estates, and lodge-style properties (some rented short-term, others long-term). Because the corridor is not a single “town centre,” daily convenience depends a lot on the exact location you pick.
Main Attractions & Things To Do
- Lake Naivasha scenery + birding: The lake is internationally recognized (Ramsar site) and is widely associated with rich wetland and woodland birdlife.
- Boat rides and lake viewing: A signature Naivasha activity—many operators run trips on the lake (often arranged through hotels/camps or independent boat owners).
- Crescent Island Game Sanctuary (walking safari): The sanctuary notes it is only accessible by boat, and visitors must organize boat transfer with operators on Lake Naivasha.
- Northwest lakeshore ranch/lodge experiences: For example, Loldia House is described as set on Loldia Ranch on the northwestern shore with activities like boat safaris and guided excursions.
- Slow travel moments: Picnic-style afternoons, photography, and relaxed sundowners—especially for visitors who want a quieter base than town.
Economic Drivers
- Tourism & hospitality: Lodges, camps, boat services, and guided nature experiences linked to Lake Naivasha’s appeal.
- Lake-based recreation services: Boat operators, guides, and nature activities (including access to Crescent Island via boat).
- Agriculture & horticulture (wider lake basin): Ramsar documentation for Lake Naivasha notes the lake system and its management context; the wider basin is associated with intensive land use, including irrigated horticulture in historical RIS documentation.
- Property & rentals: Demand for “quiet-lifestyle” homes, weekend houses, and longer stays (varies by exact pocket).
- Local trade & supply: Food supplies, maintenance services, and transport that support hospitality and residential living.
House-Hunting Tips in This Area (practical + local)
- Pinpoint your exact pocket first: “North Lake Road” is long and varied. Before you commit, ask for a Google pin, visit the location, and test the drive to town.
- Check access roads (especially in rainy seasons): Even if the main road is okay, some turn-offs can get rough—important if you commute or host guests.
- Water reliability matters: Confirm the water setup (borehole, piped, tanks) and ask how it performs in dry months.
- Internet and power: Don’t assume coverage—verify which ISP works best where you plan to live.
- Mosquito / lakeside comfort: If you’re very close to wetland edges, plan for nets/screens and basic prevention—especially at night.
- Security basics (neutral, practical): Prioritize secure gates, lighting, and a clear caretaker/management setup for standalone homes.
- Renters vs buyers:
- Renters: Focus on water + access + internet first, then lifestyle extras (views, garden space).
- Buyers: Do deeper due diligence—survey, access road status, and proper conveyancing through a qualified advocate.
- Renters: Focus on water + access + internet first, then lifestyle extras (views, garden space).
Handy Local Tips
- Do “town errands” in batches: Many residents do weekly runs for supermarket shopping, pharmacy, and hardware—then enjoy the calm of the lake road.
- Plan boat activities ahead: Especially if you’re targeting Crescent Island—remember it’s boat-only access.
FAQs
1) Is North Lake Road good for a quiet stay in Naivasha?
Yes—many visitors choose the north side for a calmer lakeside feel while still accessing Lake Naivasha activities.
2) Can I visit Crescent Island from North Lake Road?
Yes. Crescent Island states it is accessible only by boat, and you organize transfers via boat operators on Lake Naivasha.
3) What is North Lake Road known for?
It’s strongly associated with lakeside scenery, birdlife, boat rides, and lodge/ranch-style stays on the northwestern shore.
4) Do I need a car to live along North Lake Road?
It helps a lot. Many pockets are spread out, and “walkable errands” are limited compared to Naivasha Town.
5) Is Lake Naivasha a protected wetland?
Lake Naivasha is listed under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance.
Conclusion
North Lake Road is a strong choice if you want quiet lake living, nature-focused stays, and easy access to boat experiences. Next, explore our directory for accommodation, restaurants, boat operators, tours, rentals, and real estate services around North Lake Road and the wider Lake Naivasha area.