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Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru NP

Overview

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time To Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting There

Malaria & Safety

Overview

Wildlife

Birds

Best Time

Climate

Getting There

Malaria & Safety

Overview – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .

Cradled in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is a sanctuary of contrast, where big game roams beneath flocks of birds that set the sky ablaze. Just a short drive from Nakuru town, it’s one of Kenya’s most accessible and visually striking parks. The park is a stronghold for endangered rhinos, both black and white, often seen grazing near the acacia-lined shores. Lions stalk the savannah, leopards slink through fig trees, and Rothschild’s giraffes browse beneath forest canopies. At its heart lies the vast alkaline lake, home to hundreds of bird species, including pelicans and, when water levels are right, spectacular displays of flamingos that paint the shoreline pink. Though the lake has experienced dramatic seasonal shifts, its wild charm remains undiminished. Lake Nakuru is where birdwatchers, photographers, and big-game seekers find a rare blend of accessibility, biodiversity, and sheer natural beauty—packaged into one unforgettable destination.
Featured Lake Nakuru National Park (2)

Best Time To Go

June to February – Best for wildlife viewing, November – Flamingo numbers often peak, January to February – Excellent for game drives.

High Season

July to February (The Park can be busy)

Size

188 km² / 73 mi²

Altitude

1,755–2,053 m / 5,758–6,736 ft

Pros & Cons
Easily accessible—just a short drive from Nairobi
Scenic landscapes with lakes, forests, and Rift Valley cliffs
Strong rhino populations, including a successful black rhino reintroduction
Excellent birding—famous for flamingos, pelicans, and over 450 bird species
Varied habitats support lions, leopards, giraffes, and more
Can be crowded during peak season.
Limited game-drive routes due to the park’s compact size.
Wildlife

Lake Nakuru delivers big game in a compact setting. Black and white rhinos thrive here, alongside Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalo, hippos, zebra, and the occasional lion or leopard. With over 400 bird species—and flamingos that turn the lake pink—this park is a dream for both wildlife lovers and birders. Sightings are frequent, photography is rewarding, and every game drive feels rich and effortless.

Scenery

Lake Nakuru is stunning with its raw, compact beauty. The lake shimmers beneath the Rift Valley escarpment, framed by acacia woodlands, yellow fever trees, and towering euphorbias. Morning mists add a dreamlike glow, especially at dawn. Iconic viewpoints, such as Baboon Cliff and the Out of Africa Lookout, reveal sweeping, cinematic vistas. Makalia Falls brings a peaceful pause, while nearby Menengai Crater deepens the park’s dramatic, volcanic allure.

Activities

Game drives are the heart of the Lake Nakuru experience—whether guided or self-driven, they reveal big game, rich birdlife, and ever-changing landscapes. Flamingo-filled shores and raptor-filled skies make birdwatching exceptional, especially in season. Highlights such as Baboon Cliff and Makalia Falls offer stunning vantage points and provide unforgettable photo opportunities. For a more profound connection, exclusive boat excursions from select lodges and custom safaris for photographers and birders unlock the park’s full visual drama.

Weather & Climate

Lake Nakuru’s high elevation brings mild, comfortable conditions year-round. Days average 24–28°C (75–82°F), with crisp mornings ideal for game drives. The dry season, from June to February, offers clear skies and ideal safari conditions. The wet season (March–May), peaking in April, brings short, scattered showers—rarely enough to disrupt a well-planned adventure.

Best Time To Visit

The best time for wildlife viewing is from June to February, when the roads are dry and the skies are clear. Flamingo sightings peak from November to May, when algae levels are at their highest. For exceptional visibility and photography, January and February offer a unique combination of minimal vegetation and brilliant light, making them perfect for unforgettable game drives.

Wildlife – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .

Lake Nakuru National Park is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, with the notable exception of elephants. It is one of the best places in East Africa to see both black and white rhinos, as well as reintroduced populations that now thrive here. White rhinos are especially easy to spot, often grazing along the western lakeshore near the causeway. The park also serves as a vital refuge for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, frequently seen browsing the acacia woodlands stretching west of the lake.

Elephant
Giraffe
Hippo
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
White Rhino
Black Rhino
Lion
Leopard
Cheetah
Hyena
Wildlife Highlights

Lake Nakuru is a compact but rewarding park, offering close-range sightings of iconic African wildlife. Tree-climbing lions, elusive leopards, and massive buffalo roam its terrain. In addition to the rhinos and giraffes, the park’s diverse habitat supports a range of other species, including vervet monkeys, olive baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, elands, waterbucks, and Thomson’s gazelles. The dense birdlife, including flamingos and pelicans, along with over 400 avian species, makes this park a dream for birdwatchers and photographers alike.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is best during the dry season from June to February, when visibility is high and animals are easier to track. Although the park can be visited year-round, heavy rainfall in April and May can reduce road access and make sightings more challenging due to tall grasses. For vibrant flamingo displays and rewarding game drives, January to February offers the perfect window.

Wildlife Photos
A Day in Lake Nakuru National Park (2)
Birds – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .

​Birds – Lake Nakuru NP
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A birding paradise, Lake Nakuru hosts over 450 species in a dramatic Rift Valley setting. Its shimmering waters once blushed pink with flamingos, a spectacle still seen when conditions align. While flamingo numbers vary, pelicans, storks, and raptors like the long-crested eagle and African fish eagle remain ever-present. Acacia forests echo with the calls of grey-crested helmet-shrikes, while white-fronted bee-eaters brighten the cliffs near Makalia Falls. As part of the Lake Nakuru–Naivasha–Bogoria birding circuit, it’s a must-visit for serious birders and nature lovers alike.

Notable Birds in Lake Nakuru NP

Great white pelican
Lesser flamingo
Greater flamingo
Yellow-billed stork
Bateleur
Best Time for Bird Watching

Birding is rewarding year-round, but the months from November to March stand out for their ideal weather, breeding plumage, and a surge of migratory species. Flamingos are best seen when water levels recede, typically during the late dry season (June to February). With binoculars in hand, every season holds a new avian delight.

Facts & Figures

Bird Species

450

Migratory Birds

Nov to Apr

Best Time To Visit – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience .

Best Time To Visit – Lake Nakuru NP
No data was found

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Dec

Lake Nakuru National Park offers rewarding game viewing year-round, but the dry months from June to February stand out as the ideal time for an exceptional safari experience. With crisp skies and minimal rainfall, this season brings clear views of rhinos on the plains, Rothschild’s giraffes in acacia woodlands, and predators near watering holes. From November to March, the lake becomes a birder’s paradise as flamingos and migratory species arrive in breathtaking numbers.

Best Time

From June to February, the ideal for wildlife viewing and trail access prevail, while November to March marks the peak birding season.

High Season

July to February (Popular months with higher visitor numbers and vibrant wildlife activity)

Low Season

April and May (Peaceful, lush, and quiet – with lower rates and fewer crowds)

Best Weather

June to February (Dry skies, cool temperatures, and open landscapes)

Worst Weather

April and May (Heavy rainfall can limit access and reduce visibility)

June to February – Dry Season – Dry Season
Golden light and short grasses enhance visibility for wildlife.
Excellent for predator-prey sightings around limited water sources.
Sunny days with mild temperatures; ideal trail conditions.
High visitor numbers; popular sightings can be crowded.
March to May – Wet Season – Wet Season
Lush green landscapes and blooming flora — ideal for photography.
Peak birdwatching season with vibrant migratory species.
Newborn animals are visible during calving season.
Fewer tourists and lower rates during off-peak.
Heavy rains may disrupt drives; tall grass can hinder sightings.
Wildlife Photos
A Day in Lake Nakuru National Park (2)
Weather & Climate – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

Lake Nakuru enjoys a mild, pleasant climate year-round, thanks to its elevated location. Daytime temperatures typically range from 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F), while early mornings and nights can be chilly, requiring warm layers for game drives. Rainfall is moderate and seasonal, with the heaviest showers occurring from March to May. Even during the wettest months, rain tends to fall in short bursts, and the park remains accessible.

Dry Season – Dry Season – June to February
  • Expect sunny skies, cool mornings, and clear game-viewing conditions.
  • Afternoon highs reach 24°C (75°F); early mornings can drop to 11°C (52°F).
  • January and February are warmest, with peak temperatures above 25°C (77°F) and crisp mornings around 12°C (54°F).
  • The dry season offers the best wildlife sightings—short grass, fewer water sources, and unbeatable visibility.
Wet Season – Wet Season – March to May
  • The landscape turns lush with scattered rains—April sees the heaviest showers.
  • Rainfall is often brief, with long breaks of sunshine and blue skies.
  • Daytime temperatures stay mild at 25°C (77°F); mornings hover near 12°C (54°F).
  • A rewarding season for birders, photographers, and travellers seeking serenity amid fewer crowds.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru NP Photos
Featured Lake Nakuru National Park (2)
​Getting There – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

The primary gateway to Kenya is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), situated approximately 15 kilometres southeast of Nairobi.
Lake Nakuru National Park is located 155 km northwest of Nairobi and just 5 km from Nakuru town, making it highly accessible by road. The scenic drive from Nairobi takes approximately 3 hours* along a well-paved route.
Lake Nakuru is also easily reached from other key safari destinations. It is approximately 235 km (6 hours) from Maasai Mara National Reserve and 300 km (6 hours) from Samburu National Reserve. The drive from Laikipia Plateau ranges between 3 to 7 hours*, depending on the specific reserve.
*Drive times are approximate and subject to delays*.
Main Park Map
Airlines & Ticket Prices

International travellers should book flights to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Kenya Airways and several global carriers operate frequent flights into Nairobi. Once your flight is confirmed, kindly share your travel details with your safari consultant to ensure seamless coordination.

Domestic Flights

There are currently no scheduled flights to Lake Nakuru. However, we can arrange private charter flights upon request to tailor your itinerary and enhance your safari experience.

 

› No scheduled flights

› Charter flights available on request

Passport, Visa & Other Entry Requirements

Please refer to our FAQ – Kenya page for up-to-date information on passport validity, visa application, vaccination requirements, and other essential travel documents.

 

​Malaria & Safety – Lake Nakuru NP
Hola Africa Team of safari guides, Terms and Conditions, travel specialists, and Contact personnel

By Fadhili Mlema

Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.

Safety

Lake Nakuru National Park is widely regarded as a safe destination, especially when exploring on a guided tour. Crime is virtually nonexistent within Kenya’s national parks, with occasional incidents limited to urban areas. When passing through cities, standard safety precautions are advised. Within the park, guided safaris are conducted by experienced professionals who ensure a secure and seamless adventure through the Great Rift Valley.

Malaria & Vaccinations

Malaria is present in the Lake Nakuru area, a shallow soda lake in the Rift Valley. Before travelling, several vaccinations are recommended. To minimise risk, travellers should take antimalarial medication, apply mosquito repellent with DEET, and cover exposed skin in the evenings.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing in Lake Nakuru is generally safe, provided you follow all park regulations and pay close attention to your guide. These experts are trained to ensure your safety while maximising your wildlife experience.

Discover Lake Nakuru Tours

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You Visit: Nairobi City, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire NP
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Private tour,

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You Visit: Nairobi City, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire NP
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Kenya:

Private tour,

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You Visit: Nairobi City, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire NP

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