Crescent Island Game Sanctuary | Naivasha

Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is a private wildlife sanctuary located on Lake Naivasha, in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. It is one of the most unique and scenic destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island offers visitors the opportunity to walk among wildlife in a safe and tranquil environment, making it one of Kenya’s top destinations for an intimate wildlife experience.

Overview

Location: Crescent Island is located on the shores of Lake Naivasha, about 80 kilometers (50 miles) northwest of Nairobi. The island is situated on the eastern side of the lake and is accessible by boat or road.

Size: The sanctuary covers about 400 acres of land.

Established: Crescent Island Game Sanctuary was officially established in 1988, after Lake Naivasha's water levels receded and connected the island to the mainland. Prior to this, Crescent Island had been used as a private ranch.

Wildlife and Environment

Crescent Island is a haven for herbivores, offering visitors a chance to observe various species up close. The sanctuary does not have any predators, which makes it an ideal location for walking safaris.

Animals: Common herbivores found on the island include:

Giraffes

Zebras

Wildebeests

Waterbucks

Impalas

Gazelles

Some species of monkeys like baboons and vervet monkeys

Occasionally, visitors can spot smaller creatures like the spotted hyena, though sightings are less frequent due to the absence of large predators.

Birdlife: Crescent Island is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching. Some of the bird species that can be observed here include:

African Fish Eagles

Pelicans

Herons

Cormorants

Various species of kingfishers, storks, and ducks

Flora: The island features a variety of plant species, including typical acacia trees and other indigenous plants that support the wildlife. The vegetation provides both shelter and food for the animals that roam the island.

Activities on Crescent Island

The island offers a range of activities that allow visitors to experience nature and wildlife in a close and personal way.

Walking Safaris: Crescent Island is one of the few places in Kenya where visitors can go on walking safaris. This allows you to walk freely among the animals, without the concern of large predators, making it a unique experience. Walking safaris are guided, and trained guides ensure that visitors remain safe while learning about the island’s wildlife and ecology.

Birdwatching: With over 200 species of birds recorded on the island, birdwatching is a popular activity. You can observe a range of waterfowl, raptors, and other species in their natural habitat.

Boat Tours on Lake Naivasha: Visitors can also take boat rides on Lake Naivasha to view the hippos that live in the lake and explore the birdlife from the water. The boat tours provide a relaxing way to experience the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

Horseback Riding: For a different way to explore the island, horseback riding is available. Riding through the sanctuary allows visitors to experience the wildlife from a higher vantage point while still being close to the animals.

Picnics and Relaxation: Visitors often bring a picnic and enjoy the serene environment, with views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The calm atmosphere of the island makes it an excellent location for relaxation.

Access and Getting There

By Road: Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is easily accessible from Naivasha town, which is about a 2-hour drive from Nairobi via the A104 highway. From Naivasha, it is a short boat ride to the island.

By Boat: The primary way to reach Crescent Island is by boat. There are boat docks on the east and west sides of Lake Naivasha from where boats transport visitors to the island. Boat rides are available from various lodges and hotels around Lake Naivasha.

Arrangements: It is recommended to arrange your boat ride in advance, either through your hotel or directly with a boat operator.

Entry Fees (as of 2024)

The entry fees to Crescent Island Game Sanctuary are as follows:

Non-Residents:

Adults: USD 33

Students: USD 22

Children (under 16 years): USD 16

Kenya Residents:

Adults: KES 1,100

Children: KES 550

Kenya Citizens:

Adults: KES 800

Children: KES 400

These fees are used to maintain the park and contribute to conservation efforts.

Accommodation

While Crescent Island does not offer accommodation, there are several lodges and hotels around Lake Naivasha where visitors can stay. Some of the nearby accommodations include:

Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort

Enashipai Resort & Spa

Sawela Lodge

Naivasha Country Club

These lodges and resorts typically offer boat transfers to Crescent Island as part of their services, making it easy to visit the sanctuary during your stay.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (July to October): This is the best time to visit Crescent Island because the weather is generally sunny, and wildlife is more concentrated around the waterholes, making animal sightings more frequent.

Wet Season (March to May): While the park remains open year-round, the wet season brings rain, which can make some trails slippery and less enjoyable for walking safaris. However, the landscape is lush and green, which may appeal to some visitors.

Conservation Efforts

Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is committed to conservation and preserving the natural environment. The sanctuary operates as a private reserve, and its efforts focus on maintaining a balance between wildlife and the natural habitat. Visitors’ fees help support these conservation initiatives.

Conclusion

Crescent Island Game Sanctuary is one of Kenya’s most unique wildlife destinations. Its tranquil environment, combined with the opportunity to walk among wildlife, offers a special experience for nature enthusiasts and families. The sanctuary's proximity to Lake Naivasha makes it an ideal stop for anyone exploring the area, providing an unforgettable adventure in a beautiful and peaceful setting.