For travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic nature, wildlife encounters, and tranquil seclusion, Crater Lake Tented Camp & Game Sanctuary stands out as one of Naivasha’s most enchanting getaways. Built along the rim of a small volcanic crater filled with emerald-green water, this eco-lodge combines comfort with wilderness adventure — making it an exceptional base for exploring Hell’s Gate National Park and the greater Rift Valley region.
Located about 30–35 minutes (roughly 25 km) from Hell’s Gate’s Elsa Gate, the camp offers a balance between accessibility and serenity — ideal for those who want to explore during the day and unwind in a peaceful natural sanctuary by evening.
📍 Location and Accessibility
Crater Lake Tented Camp is located in Kongoni, Naivasha, within its own private 10,000-acre wildlife sanctuary surrounding Crater Lake, a small alkaline volcanic lake known for its stunning jade color.
- Distance from Nairobi: About 110 km (2.5–3 hours by road)
- Distance from Hell’s Gate National Park: Approx. 25 km (30–35 minutes by car)
- Access: Via Moi South Lake Road, past Kongoni village
- Nearby Attractions:
- Hell’s Gate National Park – 30 minutes
- Lake Naivasha Boat Rides – 20 minutes
- Crescent Island Game Sanctuary – 30 minutes
- Mount Longonot – 40 minutes
Its off-the-beaten-path setting provides an intimate experience with nature, away from the bustle of Naivasha town and the busier resorts near the main lake.
🌿 Ambience and Setting
The property sits within a private conservancy where guests can enjoy walking safaris without the need for a vehicle or guide. The crater lake itself glows green from mineral deposits, surrounded by acacia forests, volcanic cliffs, and lush vegetation.
Wildlife roams freely through the sanctuary — expect to see zebras, giraffes, antelopes, monkeys, and over 400 bird species. Hippos and buffalos graze near the lake’s edge at dusk, while flamingos add color to the waterline.
The atmosphere is serene and magical — perfect for couples, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a rustic, close-to-nature retreat.
🏕️ Accommodation and Room Types
Accommodation at Crater Lake Tented Camp combines safari-style living with modern comfort. The tents and suites are built on raised wooden decks with private verandas overlooking the lake and the surrounding forest.
All rates include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with flexible cancellation and no prepayment required — ideal for spontaneous travelers.
1. Twin Room with Lake View
- Size: 1 tented room (ground floor)
- Bed: 2 twin beds
- View: Lake, garden, mountain, and forest views
- Features:
- Balcony and terrace with outdoor furniture
- En-suite bathroom with shower and free toiletries
- Tea/coffee maker and electric kettle
- Mosquito net and wardrobe
- Sitting area and private entrance
- Rates:
- KES 30,479 for 2 guests (Full Board)
- KES 22,250 for single occupancy
- Free cancellation and pay at the property
2. Double Room with Lake View
- Size: 1 tented room (ground floor)
- Bed: 2 king beds
- View: Lake, mountain, and forest views
- Features:
- Private terrace and sitting area
- Ensuite bathroom and toiletries
- Tea/coffee station and mosquito net
- Access to swimming pool and walking trails
- Rates:
- KES 30,479 for 2 adults (Full Board)
- KES 22,250 for single occupancy
- Free cancellation and no credit card required
3. Suite with Lake View
- Type: Private suite
- Bed: 1 king bed
- Size: Larger space with seating area and balcony
- View: Lake and forest views
- Features:
- Balcony with outdoor dining area
- Elegant furnishings and larger bathroom
- Sitting area with sofa and writing desk
- Tea/coffee maker and kettle
- Mosquito net and wardrobe
- Rates:
- KES 36,679 for 2 adults
- KES 33,011 for single occupancy
- Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Free cancellation available
All rooms are surrounded by vegetation, ensuring privacy and immersion in nature.
🍽️ Dining and Culinary Experience
Crater Lake Tented Camp features an intimate open-air restaurant and bar overlooking the lake, where guests enjoy freshly prepared meals made from local ingredients.
Meal Options
- Breakfast: Fruit platters, pancakes, eggs, and Kenyan coffee
- Lunch: Buffets or à la carte dishes — salads, meats, and stews
- Dinner: Three-course meals with both African and international cuisines
- Bar & Lounge: Serves wines, cocktails, and sundowners with views over the crater lake
Meals are served in a relaxed atmosphere where guests can spot wildlife while dining.
💆♀️ Facilities and Amenities
Although small and eco-focused, Crater Lake Tented Camp provides thoughtful amenities to ensure comfort during your stay.
Key Amenities
- Outdoor swimming pool with lake view
- Nature trails and walking paths through the sanctuary
- Boat rides and guided birdwatching
- Laundry service and 24-hour front desk
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Free parking on site
- Bonfire evenings under the stars
Because of its setting inside a private conservancy, guests enjoy exclusive access to walking safaris — a rare experience in Kenya where most wildlife parks require vehicles.
🦓 Activities and Excursions
Crater Lake’s location makes it ideal for combining relaxation with exploration.
On-Site Activities
- Walking Safaris – Explore the private sanctuary on foot, spotting giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
- Birdwatching – Over 400 bird species, including flamingos, kingfishers, and fish eagles.
- Boat Rides – Peaceful excursions on the crater lake or nearby Lake Naivasha.
- Night Game Drives – Optional guided drives to spot nocturnal animals.
- Nature Photography – Stunning landscapes and lake reflections make it a photographer’s dream.
Nearby Excursions
- Hell’s Gate National Park – 30 minutes away; cycling safaris, gorges, and geothermal landscapes.
- Olkaria Geothermal Spa – Africa’s largest natural hot spring spa.
- Mount Longonot National Park – Hike the crater rim for panoramic views of the Rift Valley.
- Crescent Island – Walk among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest.
🌟 Why Stay at Crater Lake Tented Camp When Visiting Hell’s Gate
Crater Lake Tented Camp offers something distinct from Naivasha’s lakeside resorts — a quiet wilderness sanctuary experience where guests stay inside a private conservancy, surrounded by wildlife and volcanic scenery.
Top Reasons to Choose This Camp
- Proximity to Hell’s Gate National Park: Only 30–35 minutes away, making day trips convenient.
- Unique Setting: Built around a glowing green volcanic crater lake — unlike anywhere else in Kenya.
- Private Game Sanctuary: Offers walking safaris without vehicles or park crowds.
- All-Inclusive Meals: Full-board rates provide great value.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Solar power, natural materials, and minimal environmental footprint.
- Personalized Service: Intimate size ensures attentive staff and homely service.
- Ideal for Nature Lovers: Birdwatchers, photographers, and couples will find it peaceful and inspiring.
💬 Guest Reviews Summary
Pros:
- Breathtaking lake views and tranquil setting
- Excellent food and personalized service
- Chance to walk among wildlife in a private conservancy
- Comfortable rooms blending luxury and rustic charm
- Great value with meals included
Cons:
- Remote location (requires a rough final road stretch)
- Wi-Fi limited to common areas
- Fewer modern facilities compared to large resorts
🏆 How It Compares to Other Naivasha Options
| Hotel | Category | Unique Strength | Distance to Hell’s Gate | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crater Lake Tented Camp | Eco-Lodge | Private sanctuary & crater lake views | 30–35 min | Nature lovers, couples |
| Muthu Lake Naivasha Country Club | 4★ Colonial | Historic charm & lakeside lawns | 25 min | Families, classic luxury |
| Naivasha Kongoni Lodge | 4★ Boutique | Villas with plunge pools | 20 min | Honeymooners |
| Enashipai Resort & Spa | 5★ Luxury | Full-service resort with spa | 25 min | Upscale travelers |
| Elsamere Lodge | 3★ Heritage | Conservation history & birding | 25 min | Eco-tourists |
Crater Lake Tented Camp stands out for its authentic wilderness feel, offering a real safari atmosphere rather than a traditional resort experience.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How far is the camp from Hell’s Gate National Park?
About 25 km (30–35 minutes) to Elsa Gate.
Q: Are meals included?
Yes — breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in all rates.
Q: Is the camp suitable for families?
Yes, though it is best for couples or families with older children who enjoy nature and quiet environments.
Q: Do the rooms have private bathrooms?
Yes, each tent or suite includes a private en-suite bathroom with hot showers.
Q: Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, available in common areas, though limited due to the camp’s remote location.
Q: What wildlife can be seen?
Guests regularly see zebras, giraffes, elands, and hippos. The sanctuary is also a birdwatching paradise.
Q: Can the camp arrange park visits?
Yes, staff can organize day trips to Hell’s Gate, Crescent Island, and Mount Longonot.
Q: Is the area safe?
Yes — it’s a fenced private sanctuary with security and trained staff.
🌅 Final Thoughts
Crater Lake Tented Camp & Game Sanctuary is a hidden gem for travelers who want to experience Kenya’s wild side in comfort. Its stunning volcanic lake, exclusive wildlife sanctuary, and proximity to Hell’s Gate National Park make it one of the most unique accommodations in Naivasha.
Perfect for romantic getaways, photographers, and eco-conscious travelers, it offers the intimacy of a safari camp with the convenience of modern hospitality. If your goal is to connect deeply with nature — hearing birdsong at dawn, watching giraffes stroll by, and stargazing over the crater rim — then Crater Lake Tented Camp promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley.