Lake Nakuru

Lake Nakuru National Park

The Vibe: The Pink Heart of the Rift Valley.

Beneath the towering cliffs of the Great Rift Valley lies Lake Nakuru, a sparkling soda lake fringed by acacia woodlands and alive with color. The park's glittering waters have long drawn travellers for their hypnotic pink rings of flamingos, though its charm goes far beyond the birds. Lake Nakuru National Park is a sanctuary for endangered rhinos, a photographer's dream for landscapes and reflections, and a perfect blend of accessibility and abundant wildlife.

  What Makes It Special

  • Flamingo Spectacle: At times, hundreds of thousands of flamingos gather on the lake's alkaline shallows, turning the water's edge into a blushing horizon. Their numbers vary with water levels, but the sight never fails to astonish.
  • Rhino Sanctuary: Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya's best places to see both black and white rhinos. Dedicated protection programs have made the park a key stronghold for these icons of conservation.
  • Beautiful Landscapes: The park encircles the lake in a natural amphitheater of cliffs, acacia forests, and rolling grasslands, offering constantly changing vistas.
  • Easy Access: Located just a few hours from Nairobi, Nakuru is ideal for a shorter safari or as a stopover on the route to the Maasai Mara.

    Key Wildlife

  • Big Mammals: Rhino (both species), lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, and zebra.
  • Herbivores: Waterbuck, impala, gazelle, and large troops of olive baboons on the lakeshore.
  • Birdlife: Over 400 species recorded, including flamingos, pelicans, fish eagles, storks, and kingfishers.
  • Unique Sightings: The park's cliff ridges are home to tree‑climbing lions and leopards that often lounge in the fig trees.

   Key Activities

  • Game Drives: Circle the lake and explore woodlands and open plains; wildlife is usually within easy reach.
  • Birdwatching: Lake Nakuru is world‑famous among birders for its diversity and spectacular concentrations of both resident and migratory species.
  • Baboon Cliff Viewpoint: Panoramic lookout over the lake — perfect for sunrise or sunset photos.
  • Picnicking & Scenic Stops: Designated sites allow travelers to relax amid spectacular surroundings.
  • Photography: Reflections of acacia trees, flamingo flocks, and mirror‑like water create sublime compositions.

Best Time to Visit

  • June to October (Dry Season): Easiest wildlife spotting as animals concentrate around the lake; skies are clear and conditions perfect for photography.
  • November to May (Green Season): Lush scenery and prolific birdlife; flamingo numbers can peak after rains replenish algae in the lake.

Logistics

  • Location: Central Kenya, about 160 km (3–3.5 hours) northwest of Nairobi, within the Great Rift Valley.
  • Access: Paved road from Nairobi via Nakuru town or short flights to Naishi Airstrip inside the park.
  • Accommodation: A range of options — from luxury safari lodges overlooking the lake to comfortable mid‑range and budget camps just outside the park gates.

Ready for your next great adventure?

Tell us what kind of experience you're dreaming of  from wild safaris to peaceful escapes, we'll help you plan an unforgettable journey.

JOURNEY DETAILS

TRAVELLER DETAILS

Consent and agreement *

Loved by Our Travelers