Travel & holidays
Things to do in the South Rift: Nakuru, Naivasha, Narok and tea country
Lake Nakuru, Naivasha, Hell's Gate, Menengai Crater, the Maasai Mara and Kericho's tea estates: what to see and do in Kenya's South Rift.
South Rift covers 4 counties: Nakuru, Narok, Kericho, Bomet. Highlights include Lake Nakuru National Park, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Tea estates.
About the region
The South Rift covers the floor of the Great Rift Valley and the hills around it. Lakes Nakuru and Elementaita are part of the Kenya Lake System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Naivasha is the most popular weekend getaway from Nairobi. Further west, Narok County is home to the Maasai Mara, and Kericho and Bomet are tea country.
Getting there and around
Naivasha is about 95 km from Nairobi and Nakuru about 160 km. The Mara is about 270 km by road, or a short flight to one of its airstrips. Nakuru, a city since 2021, is a good hub for the region.
County by county
Nakuru
County 32 · headquarters: Nakuru
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Black and white rhinos, flamingos and the Baboon Cliff viewpoint.
- Lake Naivasha and Crescent Island: Boat rides among hippos and walking safaris.
- Hell's Gate National Park: Cycling, gorge walks and rock climbing.
- Menengai Crater: One of the world's largest volcanic calderas, with viewpoints.
- Lake Elementaita: A shallow soda lake, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Narok
County 33 · headquarters: Narok
- Maasai Mara National Reserve: The Big Five and the wildebeest migration, usually July to October.
- Maasai cultural visits: Community-run village visits around the reserve.
Kericho
County 35 · headquarters: Kericho
- Tea estates: Rolling tea country and estate tours.
- Chagaik Dam and arboretum: A tree garden and lake among the tea.
Bomet
County 36 · headquarters: Bomet
- Tea country and the Mau forest edge: Highland farms between Kericho and the Mara.
Few formal attractions are listed yet. Local research is needed.
Before you go
Opening hours, entry fees and event dates change, so check them with the operator, the Kenya Wildlife Service or the county government before you travel. Places in this guide were last checked on 19 Oct 2026. If something has changed, tell us.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do in Naivasha?
Take a boat ride among the hippos, do a walking safari on Crescent Island, and cycle through Hell's Gate National Park.
Is Lake Nakuru worth visiting?
Yes, especially for rhinos, which are easier to see here than in most parks, and for the views from Baboon Cliff.
When is the migration in the Maasai Mara?
Usually from about July to October, with river crossings often in August and September.
Sources
- Kenya Wildlife Service — park entry fees
- National Museums of Kenya
- Magical Kenya — Kenya Tourism Board
Links are for reference only. METRIKA is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
Last reviewed 19 Oct 2026. METRIKA gives estimates and general information, not financial, tax, legal or immigration advice.