Perched high above Lake Naivasha on the Eburru escarpment, the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is one of Kenya’s premier destinations — an ideal base for exploring Hell’s Gate National Park, Mount Longonot, and the scenic wonders of the Great Rift Valley.
Renowned for its panoramic views, lush golf course, and elegant accommodations, the resort offers guests an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and tranquility. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a safari stopover, this lodge is one of the most outstanding places to stay near Hell’s Gate.
📍 Location and Accessibility
The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is located about 120 km (2 hours) from Nairobi, along the Naivasha–Moi North Lake Road.
It sits 12 km from Naivasha town and roughly 20 minutes from Hell’s Gate National Park, making it one of the most convenient upscale lodges for visitors who wish to combine luxury accommodation with proximity to outdoor adventures.
Nearby attractions include:
- Hell’s Gate National Park – 20 minutes away
- Mount Longonot National Park – 35 minutes
- Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island – 25 minutes
- Olkaria Geothermal Spa – 25 minutes
- Elsamere Conservation Centre – 30 minutes
The resort is also accessible via a small airstrip, with charter flights available from Wilson Airport in Nairobi for guests seeking a quick transfer.
🌿 Ambiance and Setting
Built on the edge of a ridge overlooking the valley, the lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Longonot, Lake Naivasha, and the Aberdare Ranges in the distance.
The design harmoniously blends natural stone, timber, and thatch roofing, creating a warm and rustic atmosphere enhanced by modern luxury. The gardens are beautifully landscaped with indigenous flora, while the elevated terraces and verandas provide serene spaces to enjoy the spectacular sunsets the Rift Valley is famous for.
🏡 Accommodation Options
The Great Rift Valley Lodge offers a range of accommodations to suit different travelers — from cozy lodge rooms to spacious villas. Every unit is tastefully designed to combine elegance, comfort, and nature-inspired décor.
All rooms include private balconies, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, en-suite bathrooms, and stunning mountain or valley views.
🛏️ 1. Double or Twin Room – Lodge
- Size: 39 m²
- Bed Options: 1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
- View: Mountain and pool view
- Features:
- Balcony and terrace
- Private bathroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Patio with outdoor furniture
- Electric kettle, telephone, mosquito net
- Safe and complimentary toiletries
- Ideal For: Couples, friends, or solo travelers
- Rates (per night):
- KES 33,708 – 36,937 (includes taxes and fees)
- Options:
- Bed & Breakfast (Free cancellation before check-in)
- Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) – Non-refundable
🌺 2. Twin Villa
- Size: 43 m²
- Bed: 2 Twin Beds
- View: Mountain and lake views
- Features:
- Balcony and patio with lake view
- En-suite bathroom with bathtub or shower
- Dining area and kitchenette
- Refrigerator and electric kettle
- Flat-screen TV, mosquito net, and hairdryer
- Pool access and mountain view terrace
- Ideal For: Friends or small families looking for extra space and privacy
- Rates (per night):
- KES 33,708 – 36,937 (includes taxes and fees)
- Full Board: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- Non-refundable (pay online)
🏰 3. Executive Double Room
- Size: 97 m²
- Bed: 1 King Bed
- View: Mountain and lake
- Features:
- Private balcony and patio with breathtaking views
- Large living area and seating space
- Flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom with bathtub and shower
- Coffee/tea maker, safe, hairdryer, bathrobe, and slippers
- Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, and guests seeking luxury
- Rates (per night):
- KES 54,630 – 57,859 (includes taxes and fees)
- Full Board: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
- Non-refundable (pay online)
💰 Room Comparison Summary
| Room Type | Size (m²) | Bed Type | View | Meal Plan | Avg. Rate (KES) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Double/Twin Room – Lodge | 39 | King / Twin | Mountain & Pool | B&B or Full Board | 33,708 – 36,937 | Couples, Solo Travelers |
| Twin Villa | 43 | Twin | Mountain & Lake | Full Board | 33,708 – 36,937 | Friends, Families |
| Executive Double Room | 97 | King | Mountain & Lake | Full Board | 54,630 – 57,859 | Honeymooners, Couples |
🍽️ Dining Experience
The resort’s main restaurant offers a fine dining experience with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Guests enjoy buffet and à la carte meals, featuring a blend of international, continental, and Kenyan cuisines prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Meal Highlights:
- Breakfast: Fresh fruit, pastries, Kenyan coffee, eggs, cereals, and local dishes.
- Lunch: Light salads, grilled meats, soups, and vegetarian options.
- Dinner: Three-course menu with local and international favorites.
- Bar & Lounge: Offers cocktails, wines, and a wide selection of beverages with a relaxed evening ambiance.
Private dining can also be arranged on the terrace or near the pool — perfect for romantic evenings or special occasions.
⛳ Facilities and Amenities
The Great Rift Valley Lodge is renowned for its top-tier facilities, ensuring both leisure and business travelers have everything they need.
Resort Facilities
- 18-Hole Championship Golf Course with panoramic views
- Outdoor swimming pools
- Tennis courts and jogging trails
- Children’s playground and babysitting services
- Conference and event facilities
- Gift shop and curio store
- Free Wi-Fi and secure parking
- 24-hour front desk and concierge services
- Airport and town transfers available upon request
🦓 Activities and Excursions
Staying at the Great Rift Valley Lodge offers guests access to both recreation and adventure — within and beyond the property.
1. Hell’s Gate National Park (20 minutes away)
- Explore on foot or bicycle, see dramatic gorges, geothermal vents, and wildlife.
- Visit the Olkaria Geothermal Spa for a rejuvenating natural hot spring soak.
2. Golfing Experience
- Play a round of golf on one of Africa’s most scenic courses, surrounded by views of Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha.
3. Bird Watching & Nature Walks
- Over 300 bird species can be spotted around the lodge’s gardens and the escarpment trails.
4. Lake Naivasha Boat Rides
- Enjoy close encounters with hippos, fish eagles, and waterbuck.
5. Day Trips & Hiking
- Crescent Island Sanctuary and Mount Longonot hikes can be arranged through the lodge.
🌟 Why It’s Perfect for Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park
The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is one of the best-located luxury properties for exploring Hell’s Gate. Here’s why it stands out:
- Proximity: Only 20 minutes’ drive to Hell’s Gate National Park.
- Panoramic views: The only lodge offering uninterrupted views of the entire Rift Valley.
- Luxury meets nature: Perfect for those seeking high comfort while staying close to adventure.
- Flexibility: Multiple board options — breakfast-only or full-board packages.
- Amenities: Ideal for families, couples, and even corporate retreats.
💬 Guest Reviews Summary
Pros:
- Spectacular views of Lake Naivasha and Mount Longonot
- Spacious rooms and well-kept grounds
- Excellent dining and friendly staff
- Peaceful, family-friendly environment
- Great golf and leisure activities
Cons:
- Higher price range compared to other local lodges
- Limited nightlife — suited for relaxation rather than entertainment
- Some rooms may be far from the main reception (golf carts available)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How far is the resort from Hell’s Gate National Park?
Approximately 20 minutes by car — ideal for early morning park visits.
2. What is included in the room rate?
Rates include taxes, fees, and depending on selection, either breakfast only or all meals (full board).
3. Does the resort have Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas.
4. Can the lodge arrange tours?
Yes, staff can organize Hell’s Gate excursions, boat rides, and Mount Longonot hikes.
5. Is the resort family-friendly?
Absolutely — the resort has a children’s play area, family villas, and kids’ menus.
6. Does it have a swimming pool?
Yes, with a scenic view of the Rift Valley.
7. What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: From 2:00 PM | Check-out: By 10:00 AM (flexible on request).
8. Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the property.
🧭 Final Thoughts
The Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort offers one of Kenya’s most breathtaking settings for travelers visiting Hell’s Gate National Park. It’s not just a lodge — it’s a destination in itself, combining luxury accommodation, exceptional cuisine, and unmatched natural beauty.
Whether you’re teeing off at sunrise, watching the sunset from your balcony, or setting out for a cycling safari through Hell’s Gate, this resort delivers a world-class experience in the heart of the Rift Valley.
If you’re looking for a luxurious, peaceful, and adventure-filled retreat near Hell’s Gate National Park, the Great Rift Valley Lodge & Golf Resort is undoubtedly one of the best choices in Naivasha.