Millions

of flamingos turn
Lake Nakuru’s shores bright pink.

Lake Nakuru National Park Wildlife

A top place to spot
rhinos in scenic woodlands.

Lake Nakuru National Park is located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, surrounding a shallow, alkaline lake teeming with life.

The park is best known for its flamingos, which famously gather in large numbers, creating a stunning pink fringe around the lake.

While flamingo populations shift with changing water levels and algae conditions, birdlife remains exceptional, with over 400 species recorded throughout the park.

It is also one of Kenya’s leading rhino sanctuaries, offering reliable sightings of both black and white rhinos in their natural habitat.

Beyond the lake, the park’s diverse terrain—featuring cliffs, waterfalls, grasslands, and acacia woodlands—hosts Rothschild giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, and more, making it ideal for a scenic and compact safari.

Map

Lake Nakuru Highlights

Explore Lake Nakuru’s six highlights celebrating abundant birdlife, vibrant wildlife, and scenic lakeshores alive with color and fascinating ecological treasures.

  • Watch flamingos gather in huge numbers, feeding and wading across Lake Nakuru’s shallow, algae-rich waters in dazzling pink displays.
  • Spot black and white rhinos grazing peacefully under shady acacia trees or along the park’s open plains and lakeshores.
  • See Rothschild giraffes, an endangered subspecies, browsing treetops in forested zones around the lake’s perimeter and open woodlands.
  • Visit Baboon Cliff and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the lake, wildlife, and lush terrain from a dramatic lookout point.
  • Explore Makalia Waterfall and surrounding woodlands, where baboons, monkeys, and birdlife thrive along peaceful forest trails and riverbanks.
  • Enjoy a full-day safari close to Nairobi with compact landscapes offering concentrated wildlife encounters in just a few hours.

Activities to Do in Lake Nakuru National Park

From game drives to panoramic viewpoints and conservation-focused adventures, Lake Nakuru offers diverse experiences in a compact safari setting.

Best Time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park

The best time to visit Lake Nakuru is June to February, when dry conditions support easier wildlife viewing and better road access.

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
  • Excellent
  • Good
  • Fair
Lake Nakuru National Park Dry Season

Season Safari Guide

The climate is generally mild year-round, with daytime temperatures averaging between 24°C and 26°C (75°F–79°F), though early mornings and nights can be much cooler around 11°C to 12°C (52°F–54°F).

Dry Season (June to February)

This period features mostly sunny days with very little rainfall. Wildlife is easier to spot, and flamingos often gather at the lake’s edge. January and February are the warmest and driest months, ideal for game drives and scenic viewpoints. Pack warm clothing for early mornings, which can be chilly.

Wet Season (March to May)

March brings the start of the rains, but downpours are usually short-lived. April sees the heaviest rainfall, and some areas may become muddy. However, birdwatching is excellent during this season, and the park is lush and green with fewer crowds.

Lake Nakuru National Park Wet Season

Accommodations

From lakeside lodges to forested retreats, Lake Nakuru accommodations offer comfort, great views, and close access to flamingo-filled shores and rhino territory.

wildlife To See

  • White Rhino

    White Rhino

  • Giraffe

    Giraffe

  • Buffalo

    Buffalo

  • Zebra

    Zebra

  • Hippo

    Hippo

Get To
Lake Nakuru

Most international visitors arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. Lake Nakuru National Park is located 155km northwest of Nairobi and takes about three hours by road. The park is easily accessible via a well-maintained highway and sits just 5km from Nakuru town. There are no scheduled flights to the park, but charter flights can be arranged through tour operators. Lake Nakuru also connects by road with Masai Mara, Samburu, and Laikipia reserves.

Go To Lake Nakuru National Park

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