LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK

Lake Nakuru National Park , located in central Kenya’s Rift Valley, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. The park is home to Lake Nakuru, a shallow alkaline lake famous for attracting thousands of flamingos that create a breathtaking pink shoreline. It also serves as a sanctuary for rhinos, lions, leopards, giraffes, and diverse bird species. Surrounded by woodlands, grasslands, and rocky escarpments, the park offers scenic views and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

 Wildlife at Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a prime safari destination. The park is famous for its flamingos, which gather along the shores of Lake Nakuru, creating a stunning pink spectacle. The lake also attracts pelicans, cormorants, and over 450 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

On land, the park is a sanctuary for rhinos, hosting both the black and white rhinoceros, along with buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes roaming the savannah. Lions, leopards, and hyenas can also be spotted, making it a great destination for big cat sightings. The acacia woodlands and rocky cliffs provide shelter for baboons, colobus monkeys, and various antelope species.

Top 5 things to do in Lake Nakuru

• Game Drives

Explore the park on a safari drive, spotting rhinos, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. Early morning and late afternoon drives offer the best chances to see wildlife in action.

•  Birdwatching

Lake Nakuru is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 450 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, and fish eagles. The lake’s shores provide the perfect spot to observe these birds in their natural habitat.

•  Visit Baboon Cliff

This scenic viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding landscapes. It’s also a great place to watch troops of baboons roaming around.

•  Explore Makalia Falls

Located in the southern part of the park, Makalia Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. The waterfall is especially beautiful during the rainy season and provides a peaceful picnic spot.

• Photography and Sightseeing

With its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and iconic pink flamingos, Lake Nakuru National Park is a photographer’s dream. Capture stunning sunrise and sunset views over the lake, wildlife in action, and the dramatic escarpments.

Accommodation in Lake Nakuru National Park

• Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge

Situated on Lion Hill, this lodge provides panoramic views of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding park landscape. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a restaurant, bar, and spa facilities.

•  Lake Nakuru Lodge

Located within the park, this lodge offers views of Lake Nakuru and local wildlife. Facilities include a spa, swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, conference center, gift shop, restaurant, and bar. Accommodation options range from double and twin rooms to triple and family rooms.

•  Flamingo Hill Tented Camp

This eco-friendly camp offers tented accommodations with en-suite bathrooms, blending luxury with a close-to-nature experience. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, and lounge area.

• Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge

Perched on a range of hills, this lodge provides stunning views over the lake and park. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and dining facilities.

• The Cliff

A boutique luxury tented camp set on a cliff overlooking Lake Nakuru, offering a fusion of safari and contemporary style. Each tent is designed with modern amenities, and the camp features a restaurant, bar, and infinity pool.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for a visit is during the dry months from June to September and January to March. Wildlife tends to congregate near water sources during these periods, enhancing game viewing. Bird watchers will also find these months ideal for spotting a wide array of species.

How to Get to Lake Nakuru National Park

By Road

Drive from Nairobi to Nakuru taking about 2.5 to 3 hours via the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway. The route passes through scenic landscapes, including the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, where travelers can stop for breathtaking views.

By Air

From Wilson Airport in Nairobi to the Naishi Airstrip, located inside the park. The flight takes about 30 minutes, offering aerial views of the Rift Valley and Lake Nakuru.