Enashipai Resort & Spa is one of the most celebrated luxury resorts in Naivasha — a property that perfectly blends elegance, wellness, and cultural design. Set along Moi South Lake Road, just a short drive from Hell’s Gate National Park, it’s an exceptional choice for travelers seeking high-end comfort with easy access to adventure.
With its name derived from the Maasai word for “happiness,” Enashipai offers more than just accommodation — it delivers an experience of rejuvenation, culture, and connection to nature.
📍 Location and Accessibility
The resort is located about 20–30 minutes from Hell’s Gate National Park’s Elsa Gate, making it an ideal base for those planning cycling safaris, hiking, or wildlife photography in the park.
It sits on lush grounds near Lake Naivasha, surrounded by the Great Rift Valley’s rolling hills. The journey from Nairobi takes around 2 hours by road, and the property is easily accessible from Naivasha town, which is about 10 km away.
Nearby Attractions
- Hell’s Gate National Park – 25 minutes away
- Mount Longonot – 35 minutes
- Lake Naivasha boat rides – 10 minutes
- Crescent Island Sanctuary – 15 minutes
- Elsamere Conservation Centre – 20 minutes
- Olkaria Geothermal Spa – 25 minutes
This central position makes Enashipai perfect for guests who want both luxury and convenience.
🌿 Ambience and Setting
The moment you arrive, you’re greeted by expansive manicured lawns, Maasai-inspired sculptures, and traditional African art. The resort’s design is an homage to Kenyan culture — featuring warm earth tones, thatched roofing, and carved wood interiors.
It feels both modern and authentic, offering panoramic views, serene gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day at Hell’s Gate or Mount Longonot.
🏨 Accommodation and Room Types
Enashipai features an impressive range of rooms and villas, each designed for privacy, comfort, and luxury. The décor combines contemporary elegance with African character, featuring handcrafted furnishings and spacious interiors.
1. Garden Executive Rooms
These rooms are set within lush tropical gardens. They’re spacious, stylish, and ideal for couples or small families.
- Bed: King or twin options
- View: Garden or water fountain
- Amenities: Flat-screen TV, air conditioning, coffee station, Wi-Fi, private terrace, and en-suite bathroom
- Rates: Approx. KES 35,000–45,000 per night (depending on meal plan and season)
2. Fountain Executive Rooms
Overlooking the resort’s water features, these rooms offer a serene, romantic ambiance.
- Ideal For: Honeymooners and couples
- Features: Balcony seating, luxury bedding, elegant bathrooms with rain showers
3. Villa Executive Rooms
Located in private villas, these rooms are more secluded and spacious, perfect for families or business travelers seeking quiet.
- Added Perks: Lounge area, kitchenette, private garden, and access to an exclusive lounge
4. Executive Suites
These premium suites are designed for ultimate luxury, featuring expansive living areas, custom décor, and beautiful lake or garden views.
- Ideal For: VIP guests, couples celebrating special occasions, and long-stay visitors
- Rates: Around KES 50,000–60,000 per night (Full Board)
🍽️ Dining and Culinary Experience
Dining at Enashipai is a sensory experience. The resort offers multiple dining venues serving Kenyan, African, and international cuisine, prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Dining Options
- The Senteu Restaurant: Main dining area offering buffet and à la carte menus for all meals.
- Ol’Tepesi Bar & Lounge: Known for cocktails, wines, and light snacks, overlooking the gardens.
- Coffee Lounge: Great for pastries, Kenyan coffee, and afternoon tea.
- Wave Nightclub: On-site entertainment venue with live music and themed nights.
Guests can also enjoy outdoor dining or private dinners by the lake, ideal for romantic evenings.
💆♀️ Facilities and Amenities
Enashipai is more than a hotel — it’s a full resort experience, offering a balance of recreation, relaxation, and family-friendly fun.
Resort Highlights
- Siyara Spa: A world-class spa offering massages, aromatherapy, body scrubs, and wellness treatments.
- Swimming Pool: Outdoor heated pool surrounded by gardens and loungers.
- Fitness Center: Fully equipped gym for wellness enthusiasts.
- Conference & Events Center: State-of-the-art facilities for meetings, weddings, and retreats.
- Cultural Museum: A unique addition showcasing Maasai heritage and artifacts.
- Kids’ Club: Supervised play area and indoor games for children.
- Free Wi-Fi & Parking: Throughout the property.
- Concierge & Tour Services: Arranges excursions to Hell’s Gate, Crescent Island, and other attractions.
🦓 Activities and Excursions
Guests can combine their stay with outdoor adventures and cultural experiences around Naivasha.
Popular Excursions
- Hell’s Gate National Park – Perfect for cycling safaris, hiking, and exploring gorges and geothermal vents.
- Lake Naivasha Boat Ride – Spot hippos, fish eagles, and pelicans from the resort’s nearby boat launch sites.
- Mount Longonot Hike – A scenic day trek up a dormant volcano with panoramic Rift Valley views.
- Crescent Island Sanctuary – Walk among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest on foot.
- Elsamere Museum & Tea Garden – Learn about Joy Adamson’s legacy and conservation work.
🌟 Why Enashipai is Ideal for Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park
Enashipai stands out among Naivasha’s resorts for those planning a Hell’s Gate adventure because it offers the perfect blend of luxury, accessibility, and family comfort.
Key Advantages
- Proximity: Only 25 minutes from the park gate
- Luxury Meets Nature: Combines five-star comfort with eco-friendly design
- Spa & Wellness Focus: Ideal for relaxation after a day of cycling or hiking
- Family & Group Friendly: Multiple room options and kids’ amenities
- Cultural Depth: Maasai-themed décor and on-site heritage displays
- Reliable Service: Known for its attentive staff and efficient tour assistance
💬 Guest Reviews Summary
Pros:
- Impeccably clean and well-maintained rooms
- Excellent food quality and variety
- Friendly, professional service
- Family-friendly environment
- World-class spa and beautiful gardens
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to nearby mid-range hotels
- Can get busy during weekends and conferences
- Nightclub may be noisy for rooms nearby
🏆 How It Compares to Other Naivasha Hotels
| Hotel | Type | Best For | Distance to Hell’s Gate | Distinct Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enashipai Resort & Spa | 5★ Luxury | Families, couples, conferences | ~25 minutes | Full spa, nightclub, cultural theme, large pool |
| Lake Naivasha Resort | 4★ Mid-Luxury | Couples, business travelers | ~20 minutes | Spacious rooms, lakeside views, relaxed setting |
| Naivasha Kongoni Lodge | 4★ Boutique | Romantic getaways | ~15 minutes | Villas with plunge pools, quieter setting |
| Great Rift Valley Lodge | 5★ Golf Resort | Nature lovers, golfers | ~25 minutes | Scenic escarpment views, golf course |
| Elsamere Lodge | 3★ Eco-Lodge | Conservation enthusiasts | ~25 minutes | Historical setting, wildlife by lake |
| Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge | 4★ Family Resort | Families, groups | ~20 minutes | Large grounds, resident wildlife |
Among these, Enashipai stands out as the most comprehensive and upscale option — ideal for travelers who value both comfort and access to Naivasha’s nature and culture.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far is Enashipai from Hell’s Gate National Park?
About 25 minutes’ drive to Elsa Gate.
Q: What meals are included in room rates?
Guests can choose from bed & breakfast, half board, or full board packages.
Q: Does the resort have Wi-Fi and parking?
Yes, both are free and reliable throughout the property.
Q: Can Enashipai organize park visits?
Yes — the concierge can arrange Hell’s Gate safaris, cycling trips, and lake excursions.
Q: Is the resort suitable for kids?
Absolutely. It features a kids’ play area, children’s pool, and family rooms.
Q: What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: From 2:00 PM | Check-out: 10:00 AM (flexible on request).
🌅 Final Thoughts
For visitors planning to explore Hell’s Gate National Park, Enashipai Resort & Spa is one of the most luxurious and complete options in Naivasha. It combines five-star amenities, cultural richness, and proximity to adventure, making it suitable for everyone—from honeymooners to families to conference groups.
While smaller lodges like Naivasha Kongoni or Elsamere appeal to budget-conscious or nature-focused guests, Enashipai remains the top-recommended resort for those who want indulgence, service excellence, and convenience in one unforgettable lakeside retreat.