When you think of Naivasha, the first images that come to mind may be Lake Naivasha’s calm waters, boat rides with hippos, or hikes through Hell’s Gate. But did you know that this town is also the beating heart of Kenya’s flower industry?
Naivasha is home to some of the largest rose farms in the world, supplying markets across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. For guests staying at Lemaiyan Suites, a visit to a flower farm is not only scenic and colorful but also an educational and eye-opening experience.
Why Naivasha for Flowers?
Naivasha’s success as a flower hub is no accident. The town offers:
- Perfect climate: Warm days, cool nights, and reliable sunshine.
- Abundant water from Lake Naivasha and underground aquifers.
- Rich volcanic soils that nourish vibrant, long-stemmed roses.
This natural blessing has made Naivasha a powerhouse, with farms producing over 70% of Kenya’s cut flowers, many of which are exported directly to Europe’s flower auctions.
What to Expect on a Flower Farm Visit
- Guided Tours
Walk through endless rows of roses, carnations, lilies, or chrysanthemums. Guides explain everything from planting to harvesting. - Greenhouse Experience
Step inside massive greenhouses where flowers grow in perfectly controlled conditions, ensuring year-round blooming. - Sustainability Insights
Many farms are certified for fair trade and eco-friendly practices. Learn about water recycling, solar power, and biological pest control. - Packaging & Export Process
Watch how flowers are sorted, bundled, cooled, and packed for international flights—some leaving Kenya in the morning and reaching European markets by evening. - Photography Moments
The sight of thousands of blooms in neat rows is unforgettable. It’s a photographer’s dream, perfect for capturing your Naivasha story.
The Human Side – Communities Behind the Blooms
Flower farming is one of the largest employers in Naivasha, especially for women. Visiting a farm gives you insight into:
- The daily lives of farm workers.
- Fair trade programs that support schools, clinics, and community projects.
- How local communities benefit from global flower sales.
It’s a chance to see how flowers are not just beautiful exports, but also drivers of economic empowerment.
Why Pair a Flower Farm Visit With Lemaiyan Suites?
- Proximity: Most flower farms are just minutes from Lemaiyan Suites. A half-day excursion fits perfectly into your itinerary.
- Relaxation After the Tour: Return to enjoy spa treatments, poolside coffee, or fine dining after your farm walk.
- Unique Storytelling: Imagine gifting your loved ones flowers in Naivasha after seeing where they were grown—then retreating to Lemaiyan’s comfort.
- Blend of Experiences: Combine a flower farm visit with a Lake Naivasha boat ride or a stop at Crescent Island for a well-rounded day.
Insider Tips for Visitors
- Best time: Morning hours when blooms are fresh and weather is cooler.
- Dress code: Comfortable shoes—expect some walking.
- Bookings: Some farms require advance arrangements for visits. The Lemaiyan Suites front office can assist with this.
- Souvenirs: Some farms allow guests to pick a small bouquet to take home.
Sample Day Itinerary – “Flowers & Lake”
- Morning: Depart Lemaiyan Suites for a flower farm guided tour.
- Midday: Stop for lunch in Naivasha town or return to Lemaiyan for a farm-to-table meal.
- Afternoon: Take a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to spot hippos and birds.
- Evening: Unwind at Lemaiyan Suites’ rooftop lounge with a coffee or glass of wine.
Conclusion
A visit to Naivasha’s flower farms is more than a sightseeing stop—it’s a journey into the heartbeat of a global industry. Guests at Lemaiyan Suites have the privilege of experiencing not just Kenya’s wildlife and landscapes, but also its role as a leader in sustainable agriculture and floral exports.
So next time you see a rose in London, Amsterdam, or Dubai, remember: it may have blossomed under the Naivasha sun, just minutes from your suite.
