Kenya is a country of stunning natural beauty, with 22 National Parks and 28 National Reserves. There are loads of unusual things to try in each one of them, but if you're in Nairobi, Hell's Gate is the place to go.
Hell’s Gate National Park is within easy driving distance of the city and an ideal spot to take a day trip. To sweeten the deal even further Inside Hellsgate National Park is the Olkaria Geothermal Spa which is the largest Natural spa in Africa, the route to Naivasha from Nairobi has a stunning view of the Great Rift Valley, Mahi Mahiu catholic church which is the smallest church in Kenya, Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha. We left Nairobi with a group of 8 including our driver Hassan, on the Morning of 4th/December/2021 and it was a chilly and a drizzling morning. The weather conditions got worse at Limuru as there was a heavy downpour and quite frankly everyone in the car had a dampened mood and not even the Afro beats playing in the car was able to make any difference. We took the Mahi Mahiu route which is shorter compared to the Nairobi Highway. On approaching the Viewpoint, you could see the rainbow from a far, signifying a change of weather and coincidently, playing on the car stereo now was some good old school dancehall vibes with Dirtsman-Hot this year, firing everyone up.
The Great Rift Valley Viewpoint
ACTIVITIES
Enjoy the scenic Panoramic views of the Rift Valley at the viewpoint where there are little stalls to get food or drink, use the bathroom, or simply take in the view of the Great Rift Valley. It's free to stop and photography is allowed.
Mai Mahiu Church
After snaking down the Mahi Mahiu road approximately 1km and on the right side of the road, is Mai Mahiu Catholic Church. Popularly referred to as the 'Travellers Chapel'. Which is the smallest Church in Kenya and Africa.
The construction of the church is itself an interesting story. During the Second World War, British and Imperial forces captured more than half a million Italian soldiers, sailors and airmen. These Italian Prisoners of War then built the Mai Mahiu Catholic Church in 1942 under strict supervision from the British.
Since the Italians were Catholics and the British were Anglicans, they could not mingle in prayer. So, the POWs built their own place of prayer. Believe it or not, they achieved this fit while working on the Mai Mahiu road. The soldiers took turns during their breaks from the road to work on the chapel! Unfortunately, like their companions who built the Italian War Memorial Church in Nyeri, many died from Malaria and attacks by wild animals. Some succumbed to snake bites from poisonous snakes that apparently live in the area to date. However small, the Mai Mahiu Church is a big representation of what the soul is willing to achieve in the midst of adversity. In its little space, the big idea that freedom and peace allow us to overcome the toughest times in the presence of God comes alive.
Today, the Italian Embassy, the Kenyan government and well-wishers manage the Mai Mahiu Catholic Church. They dedicate resources to conserve this religious scenic feature. The church is open to the public at no cost from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Mahi mahiu road leading to Lake Naivasha has may roadblocks set up by the NTSA and police to tame speeding over the limit and overtaking which is not allowed. Along the road before Reaching the junction of Moi south Lake Road, you can view Mt. Longonot in its majestic Stature.
Mt. Longonot
Lake Naivasha
We arrive at Lake Naivasha Karagita Public Beach at around 11.30 am. Right away we were greeted by Boat riders who were canvassing for Passengers.
Boat Ride Charges: 25 mins to 30 mins: 1000ksh
45 mins to 1 hour: 2000ksh (Inclusive with a boat ride to crescent Island) 2 hours: 3500ksh (Inclusive with a boat ride to crescent Island)
You can Call Kevo 0706183065 When you get there. Amazing chap, His stories will keep you captivated, he knows all the boat riders and can get you a good deal/discount.
Crescent Island Game Sanctuary.
Located on Lake Naivasha, in the Great Rift Valley, Kenya. It is one of the most beautiful parks in Kenya and is often called Naivasha’s best-kept secret. Perfect for Wildlife Watching, Bird Watching, and fans of the wilderness. Crescent Island has an abundance of animal and plant species. Whether an avid animal, bird or plant lover or just an interested novice you will find something to excite you.
Entrance Charges: Non Residents
Adult: US$ 30 Student: US$ 20 Child: US$ 15
Kenya Residents (Proof of ID required)
Adult: Ksh 1000
Child: Ksh 500
Kenya Citizens (With ID)
Adult: Ksh 800 Child: Ksh 400
Local School Groups
(Must be pre-booked by email)
Primary: Ksh 250
Secondary: Ksh 350
Teacher: Ksh 450
(Guide: 500/- per school group) At the, Karagita Public beach there are stalls to get food or drink and use the bathroom. The food is Affordable and Well cooked. You can Also Buy Tilapia straight from the lake at 600ksh. We left Karagita Public Beach after having a light breakfast and headed towards Hellsgate National Park. On your Way, just after The Kengen headquarters, there is a road that heads towards ELSA gate, right after the flowers Greenhouses. Bicycle hire is two kilometres from the Elsa Gate to Hell’s Gate National Park. Check the bikes before taking off, they are not all in good condition.
Hellsgate National Park
Hell’s Gate National Park is one of the few national parks in Kenya where you can walk and cycle freely. Because there are no elephants, lions or leopards, the park is safe to move through the park without a ranger, guide and car. The bike ride runs through dusty roads in about 8 kilometres to the canyon. Along the way, you will see zebras, giraffes, buffalos, impalas and wild hogs, with yellow and orange rocks in the background. The park authorities do not allow to hike in the gorge due to a flood that occurred in 2019 and tragically cost several lives of Local tourists. For a first time, it's better to have a guide.
Activities: Game viewing, camping, bird watching, sightseeing, cycling, hiking and rock climbing Main attraction: The natural hot water spa. Bike Hire at the Elsa Gate: 500 kshs Bringing your own Bike: 215 kshs
Guiding Fees: 2000 Kshs (KWS Personnel) 1000 Kshs (Local Guides) Call: Muriuki 0727739670 Entrance Fees:
Citizen: Adult 250 KSH
Child 200 KSH
Resident: Adult 250 KSH
Child 200 KSH
Non-Resident: Adult 20 USD
Child 15 USD
Olkaria Geothermal Spa
If you’re using personal means, you’ll have to drive towards Oserian Town from Naivasha. Just before you reach Oserian, there’s a road that leads directly to the KenGen Power Plant; you’ll see KWS offices at the gate. Not to worry if you plan on going via PSV. Board the Oserian Matatus from town (fare is roughly Ksh. 80-100). Tell the conductor to drop you off at the Ol Karia stage. Pick a motorbike to the KWS entrance (This should cost you Ksh. 50-100) or more depending on your bargaining skills. If you wish to visit the Olkaria Geothermal Spa, without going bike riding and hiking inside Hellsgate national park, don't go to the Elsa Gate rather, use the Olkaria gate, with the Spa only 350meters from the gate its easier and more accessible. You will have to pay the Hellsgate National Park Entry fees (View the charges above). The first thing that catches your attention as you walk towards the poolside is the breath-taking view of the expansive main pool with the hills and towers of steam that seems to fuse with the clouds in the background. The adult pool is massive, and save for the tiny rock island at the centre, you’d think it was a mini-lake. If you have little ones with you; don’t worry; there’s a baby pool and playground equipment to cater for them.
The water feels heavenly on the skin. It is almost as if you’re floating in an endless bathtub is some tacked away haven, staring at the hills and the clear skies. Olkaria Geothermal Spa closes at 5.30 pm.
Entrance Fees:
Citizen: Adult 400 KSH
Child 100 KSH
Resident: Adult 1000 KSH
Child 500 KSH
Non-Resident: Adult 1800 KSH
Child 850 KSH
We left Nairobi as strangers but returned as friends after having created memories. We experienced People's cultures and religion. Kenyan people are friendly, Welcoming and accepting and that's The Spirit of Kenya.