Camp Carnelley's

The Great Rift Valley ecosystem surrounding Lake Naivasha features freshwater lakes, acacia woodlands, and stark volcanic scenery. Camp Carnelley's occupies a convenient position directly on the lake's southern shoreline, immediately outside the main gate of Hell's Gate National Park. This location makes it a practical base for activities in and around the park.

Camp Carnelley's Location on Lake Naivasha

Access to the camp from Nairobi is via the Moi South Lake Road, a journey of approximately 90 kilometres that typically takes two hours, depending on traffic. The final approach to the camp follows a graded dirt track, which is standard for properties in this area. The camp's direct adjacency to Hell's Gate is its primary logistical advantage. This proximity allows guests to begin park excursions on foot or by bicycle early in the morning or late in the afternoon, avoiding vehicle transfers. The property extends down to the papyrus-lined shores of the lake, providing direct access for launching boats.

The Unfenced Grounds and Wildlife at Camp Carnelley's

Camp Carnelley's operates as an open-plan, unfenced bush camp shaded by a canopy of mature acacia trees. Its expansive and generally flat grounds consist of grassy areas where resident wildlife regularly grazes. The camp's unfenced design is a fundamental part of its character. Guests should expect to see zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, and troops of baboons and vervet monkeys moving through the property at any time. Buffalo also frequent the area, particularly at night, which requires guests to maintain a high level of awareness when moving about after dark.

Accommodation at Camp Carnelley's

Accommodation at Camp Carnelley's consists of simple, functional structures designed for the budget-conscious and self-sufficient traveller. The operational focus is on providing secure, no-frills lodging rather than high-end luxury. This approach aligns with the camp's role as a base for active pursuits in the surrounding Naivasha area, offering a comfortable place to rest after a day of cycling or boating.

Stone Bandas

The camp offers a series of small, stone-and-mortar cottages, locally known as bandas. These permanent structures provide more protection from the elements than canvas tents. Each unit is basic, with concrete floors, a corrugated iron roof, and simple timber-frame beds. The en-suite facilities are rudimentary, containing a flush toilet and a shower. Hot water for the shower is supplied on request via a 'kuni' wood-burning boiler system.

Permanent Safari Tents

For a classic bush experience, the camp provides several permanent safari tents. Each tent is built on a raised concrete plinth and sits under a protective 'makuti' (palm thatch) roof, which adds shade and weather resistance. The internal setup is simple and functional.

• Canvas construction with mesh-covered windows
• Basic twin or double bed configurations
• Small, attached en-suite bathroom with basic amenities
• A small, covered verandah area with camp chairs

Communal Facilities and Camp Services

Communal facilities are centred around a main lodge and bar area that functions as the social hub of the camp. The structure is built from local stone and timber and features a large, covered verandah overlooking Lake Naivasha.

Generator Power and Wi-Fi Access

The camp's power is supplied by a generator and is not available 24 hours a day. The generator usually runs in the evening, from approximately 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM, to supply power for lighting and device charging. Guests must organise their charging schedule for cameras, phones, and other electronics within this window. Wi-Fi service is available only in the immediate vicinity of the main bar and restaurant, and its performance can be inconsistent.

Activities from Camp Carnelley's

The camp's location directly informs its primary activities, which are focused on the adjacent national park and the lake itself. Most excursions are organised on a self-guided or privately arranged basis.

Cycling in Hell's Gate National Park

Camp Carnelley's serves as an ideal staging point for visiting Hell's Gate. The camp facilitates the hire of basic mountain bikes, which are the preferred mode of transport for navigating the park's main gorge and trails. This arrangement allows guests to independently visit key sites like Fischer's Tower and the Ol Njorowa Gorge at their own pace.

Boating Safaris on Lake Naivasha

Boat safaris can be organised directly from the camp's shoreline. These excursions focus on the lake's abundant birdlife, which includes African fish eagles, pelicans, and cormorants. The trips also provide close-up viewing opportunities for the large hippopotamus pods that live in the lake.

Camp Carnelley's At a Glance

Is Camp Carnelley's the Right Choice for You?

Camp Carnelley's is best suited to the independent, active, and budget-oriented traveller. The camp's value lies in its strategic location and rustic environment, not in luxury or extensive service. The unfenced grounds and constant presence of wildlife make it a superior choice for experienced bush visitors, backpackers, and small groups who need a functional base for cycling Hell's Gate and seeing Lake Naivasha. It is less suitable for families with young children or first-time safari travellers who may require a more structured and protected environment.