19/01/2025
Birdwatching at Lake Naivasha with Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris
Lake Naivasha, located in the Great Rift Valley, is one of Kenya’s premier birdwatching destinations. Known for its abundant birdlife and stunning natural beauty, it hosts over 400 bird species, making it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts. Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris offers specialized birdwatching tours, allowing you to explore the area by boat and on foot, guided by experts.
Birdwatching Highlights at Lake Naivasha with Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris:
1. Boat Ride on Lake Naivasha:
Duration: Typically 1.5 - 2 hours.
The boat ride provides an up-close experience with the birdlife of Lake Naivasha. On the water, you can see species like African Fish Eagles, Pelicans, Kingfishers, and Cormorants.
Explore the lake’s shorelines, where large groups of flamingos are often spotted. The boat ride offers fantastic opportunities to spot waterfowl like black-winged stilts and duck species.
2. Crescent Island Walk:
After the boat ride, enjoy a guided walking safari on Crescent Island (accessible by boat). This island sanctuary is not only home to giraffes, zebras, and antelope but also provides excellent birdwatching opportunities.
You’ll find species like the Lilac-breasted Roller, Saddle-billed Stork, and Grey Heron in the diverse ecosystems of the island, ranging from wetlands to savannah grasslands.
3. Key Bird Species You May Spot:
African Fish Eagle: Known for its striking appearance, it's often seen perched along the lake’s shores.
White-faced Whistling Duck: A common sight around the lake’s wetlands.
Great White Pelican: You’ll often find these large, graceful birds fishing on the lake.
Pied Kingfisher: A frequent sight hunting from the air, it’s a delight for birdwatchers.
Flamingos: During the migration season, both Greater and Lesser Flamingos are abundant, especially on the lake’s southern shores.
African Jacana: This beautiful water bird with striking long legs is a common sight near the lake’s lily pads.
4. Expert Birdwatching Guides:
Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris employs professional birding guides who are familiar with the seasonal movements of birds, their behaviors, and the best spots for sightings. Their expertise ensures you don’t miss out on any rare or unique species.
5. Scenic Beauty and Relaxation:
Apart from birdwatching, the boat tour and walking safari offer unparalleled views of the lake’s natural beauty. The surrounding mountains and wildlife create a peaceful and serene setting that is perfect for nature lovers.
Tour Inclusions:
Birdwatching Boat Tour of Lake Naivasha with an expert guide.
Walking Safari on Crescent Island, known for its birdlife and wildlife.
Experienced birding guide who will help identify various species.
Transport to and from the lake if arranged with the tour provider.
Birdwatching Checklist to help you track your sightings.
Best Time for Birdwatching:
November to April: This period offers the best birdwatching opportunities as it’s the migratory season. Many migratory bird species come to Lake Naivasha, adding to the diversity of the birdlife.
Year-round: The lake is a great birding destination throughout the year, with some species, like the African Fish Eagle and Pelicans, present year-round.
Booking Your Tour with Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris:
Location: Lake Naivasha, which is easily accessible from Nairobi (about 1.5-2 hours by road).
Tour Packages: Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris offers flexible birdwatching tours, including half-day or full-day options, depending on your schedule and preferences.
Customized Tours: For serious birdwatchers or photographers, Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris can offer tailored experiences with a focus on particular bird species or photography opportunities.
Conclusion:
Sharif Tour & Boat Safaris provides a wonderful opportunity for birdwatching at Lake Naivasha, one of Kenya’s premier birding destinations. Whether you are an experienced birdwatcher or a beginner, this tour offers a fantastic chance to explore the diverse avian life, enjoy stunning landscapes, and experience the natural beauty of the Great Rift Valley. The combination of boat rides, walking safaris, and expert guides makes it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
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