A 2-night Naivasha staycation cost me approximately Ksh 14,000 per person, including full board accommodation and transport. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to budget.
Quick Budget Summary
| Category | Cost (KES) |
| Accommodation (Full Board, 2 Nights) | 10,000 |
| Transport | 2,750 |
| Snacks & Extras | 1,250 |
| Total | 14,000 |
Why We Chose a Naivasha Staycation
After traveling to Mombasa last year, we wanted something quieter and less activity-heavy. The goal was simple: rest, work lightly, and enjoy nature.
We chose Dove Nest Lodge because it offered full board at a relatively affordable rate compared to many lodges in southern Naivasha.
Transport Cost to Naivasha
- Matatu: 750
- Taxi return: 2,000 (your share)
Total transport cost for me: KES 2,750
We used a Naivasha-dedicated matatu (Mololine) on our way there, which was less comfortable than expected. In hindsight, using a Nairobi-bound long-distance matatu and alighting at Naivasha may offer a better ride.
If you have a car, self-driving provides more flexibility, though at a higher cost.
Dove Nest Lodge Cost (Full Board Explained)
The room rate for two adults was KES 10,000 per night, full board.
For two nights:
- Total room cost: KES 20,000
- My share: KES 10,000
A child supplement (approximately 50%) is applied separately.
What Full Board Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
- Swimming pool access
There were no additional meal charges during the stay, which made budgeting straightforward.
We also tipped a staff member KES 500 during our stay.
What We Did During the Staycation
This trip was intentionally low-activity.
We spent most of our time:
- Working and lounging by the pool
- Taking short walks around the lodge
- Playing pool in the evenings
- Enjoying bonfire dinners
The lodge was relatively quiet at the time, which enhanced the sense of privacy and relaxation.
If your goal is to reset mentally rather than explore Hell’s Gate or boat rides, this type of staycation works well.
Is a Naivasha Staycation Worth It?
Yes, especially if your priority is rest.
For approximately Ksh 14,000, I had:
- 2 nights accommodation
- All meals and drinks included
- Pool access
- A quiet, green environment
It’s a manageable weekend budget for professionals looking for a short escape without complex planning.
How to Reduce the Cost of a Naivasha Trip
You can lower your budget further by:
- Using a matatu both ways instead of a private taxi.
- Traveling with a friend and sharing a room.
- Booking directly with the lodge instead of third-party platforms.
- Visiting during the low season for better rates.
Traveling in pairs significantly reduces the cost of full-board accommodation. Budget traveling is Kenya is always lower with a companion.
FAQs About Naivasha Staycations
How much does a Naivasha trip cost?
A simple 2-night staycation in Naivasha can cost between Ksh 12,000 and Ksh 25,000 per person, depending on accommodation type and whether you add excursions.
Is 2 days enough in Naivasha?
Yes. Two nights are sufficient for a restful staycation or for combining light activities such as boat rides or Hell’s Gate.
Are full board lodges worth it?
Yes. Full board simplifies budgeting by including meals and drinks, reducing unexpected daily expenses.
Is Dove Nest Lodge affordable?
When sharing a room, the cost averages around Ksh 5,000 per person per night (full board), which is competitive for Naivasha.
