RegionGreat Rift Valley
A land of dramatic escarpments, glittering lakes, and timeless cultures.
Spanning from Ethiopia to Mozambique, Kenya’s Great Rift Valley is a geological wonder that feels like a living storybook of the Earth’s history. Carved millions of years ago by shifting tectonic plates, it now unfolds as a region of deep lakes, rugged escarpments, and wildlife-rich plains—offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Start with the iconic Rift Valley scenic viewpoints, where you can gaze across vast landscapes that seem to stretch forever. Journey along the Rift Valley lakes road trip, visiting Lake Naivasha, Elementaita, Nakuru, and Baringo—each with its own rhythm of life. Relax in natural hot springs, set out on invigorating hikes in the highlands, or enjoy world-class birding routes where flamingos, pelicans, and eagles thrive. Along the way, meet local communities for cultural encounters that bring the valley’s living heritage to life. After a day of adventure, unwind in elegant boutique lodges overlooking the plains, where sunsets paint the sky in unforgettable hues. For photographers, the valley offers unrivalled light and depth—photography across the escarpments captures scenes that feel almost otherworldly. The Great Rift Valley isn’t just a destination—it’s a journey through Kenya’s soul, connecting nature, people, and the passage of time.
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Best time to go to Great Rift Valley
The best time to visit the Great Rift Valley is during the dry seasons from June to October and December to March, when the skies are clear and conditions are ideal for road trips, hiking, and photography. Wildlife gathers around the lakes, and birding is at its best, with migratory species arriving from the north. The green season (April–May and November) transforms the valley into a lush paradise, with waterfalls and hot springs surrounded by blooming vegetation—perfect for travellers who enjoy quieter, more atmospheric landscapes. Temperatures remain pleasant year-round, ranging between 20°C and 28°C, making it an all-season destination.
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Where to stay in Great Rift Valley
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What our travellers are saying
Because of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified Traveller
With super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified Traveller
What can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified Traveller
Our Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified Traveller
We had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified Traveller
Our South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified Traveller
I spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified Traveller
We booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified Traveller
We had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified Traveller
I had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified TravellerBecause of the easy way we communicated with our Viatu expert, it felt like planning our holidays with a friend. It made it really flexible and perfectly suitable for our needs. The accommodations that he suggested were just wonderful and a perfect mix of everything we needed.
Nicole
Verified TravellerWith super short notice, they organised a trip that was just perfect. Loved everything about it! Will definitely recommend Viatu to all my friends!
Margherita
Verified TravellerWhat can I say? We've had an absolute blast traveling through Namibia. Soooo many good new memories! We booked our trip a bit last minute but had amazing support from Viatu to get all the information in time.
Anna
Verified TravellerOur Viatu experience was just amazing, starting with the first discussions and the planning of our trip to Namibia. The Viatu team did a great job planning the trip according to our wishes and preferences.
Stefano
Verified TravellerWe had the most wonderful experience with Viatu and the trip of a lifetime. My sister and I travelled for 3,5 weeks through Namibia and South Africa, and everything was perfectly planned and just amazing.
Valerie
Verified TravellerOur South Africa vacation managed by Viatu based on our request turned out perfect. All logistics and transfers worked seamlessly with local professional personnel.
Svein
Verified TravellerI spent one of my most exciting and beautiful holidays with Viatu in Namibia. From unforgettable game drives, lodges with stunning locations, delicious food and an adventurous cycling trip through the desert, we got the full package.
Manuel
Verified TravellerWe booked our 3.5-week honeymoon with Viatu, and it was simply wonderful! We had the most amazing time in South Africa and will book holidays with Viatu again!
Linda
Verified TravellerWe had an incredible journey with Viatu and many unforgettable memories in South Africa. The journey was tailor-made to our wishes and the communication with Alex really easy, friendly and helpful. All the information was accessible online at any time, nicely presented and structured in an overview.
Michèle
Verified TravellerI had a once in a lifetime trip with Viatu. It was extremely exciting, adventurous and diverse! As my first trip, I found it to be very enjoyable. Everything was totally planned out from A to Z.
Irina
Verified Traveller