Lake Nakuru National Park

Overview of Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya’s most accessible and popular safari destinations, famous for its soda lake, flocks of flamingos, and diverse wildlife. Covering about 188 square kilometers, the park lies within the Great Rift Valley and is surrounded by wooded and bushy grasslands. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and also home to black and white rhinos, making it a must-visit stop on a Kenyan safari circuit.

Location

Lake Nakuru National Park is located in Nakuru County, central Kenya, about 160 km (100 miles) northwest of Nairobi. It sits along the floor of the Great Rift Valley at an altitude of 1,754 meters (5,755 feet). 

Popular Reasons to Visit

• Flamingos & Birdlife – Once home to millions of flamingos, the lake still attracts thousands of lesser and greater flamingos along with over 400 other bird species.

• Rhino Sanctuary – A protected home for both black and white rhinos, offering rare and close sightings.

• Diverse Wildlife – In addition to rhinos, expect to see lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, and waterbucks.

• Scenic Landscapes – Woodlands, waterfalls, and sweeping views from surrounding escarpments make the park visually stunning.

• Accessibility – Just a short drive from Nairobi, Nakuru is ideal for day trips or short safaris.

Best Time to Visit

• June to September – Dry season with great wildlife viewing and easier road conditions.

• October to December – Short rains bring lush scenery and good birdwatching.

• January to February – Hot and dry, excellent for game drives.

• March to May – Long rains; the park remains open but some roads can get muddy.

How to Get to Lake Nakuru

• By Road: About a 2–3 hour drive from Nairobi on the Nairobi–Nakuru highway, making it one of Kenya’s most accessible parks.

• By Air: Daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Naishi Airstrip inside the park.

• From Nearby Parks: Often combined with safaris to Masai Mara, Aberdare, or Lake Naivasha due to proximity.

Popular Attractions & Points of Interest

1. Lake Nakuru – Famous for flamingos, pelicans, and other birdlife.

2. Baboon Cliff Viewpoint – A stunning lookout over the lake and surrounding landscapes.

3. Makalia Falls – A small but picturesque waterfall inside the park.

4. Rhino Sanctuary – Protected area where both black and white rhinos can be seen.

5. Euphorbia Forest – The largest Euphorbia candelabrum forest in Africa.

Accommodation Options

Lake Nakuru offers a variety of accommodations inside and near the park:

• Luxury Lodges: The Cliff Nakuru, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Lake Nakuru Lodge.

• Mid-range Options: Flamingo Hill Tented Camp, Ziwa Bush Lodge.

• Budget Stays: Campsites such as Naishi, Makalia, and Backpacker-friendly stays in Nakuru town.

• Nearby Hotels: Many hotels and resorts in Nakuru town provide easy access for day visitors.

General Travel Tips

• Park Fees: Non-resident adult entry is approx. USD $60 per day (check KWS rates for updates).

• Best Time for Flamingos: Numbers vary depending on lake water levels — dry seasons often attract more birds.

• Clothing: Light, neutral safari wear; a sweater for cool mornings and evenings.

• Photography: Bring both a zoom lens (200–300mm) for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes.

• Health Precautions: Carry insect repellent; malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

• Safari Combinations: Lake Nakuru is often paired with Lake Naivasha, Masai Mara, or Aberdare National Park for a diverse itinerary.