Deep within the Great Rift Valley, colorful birds, rhinoceros and countless other remarkable animals coexist in Lake Nakuru National Park. With its idyllic vistas, it's a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

History

Designated as a conservation area as early as 1957, then as a bird sanctuary in 1961, the Lake Nakuru region officially gained national park status in 1968. To prevent their extinction, Rothschild giraffes were transferred to the reserve during the 1970s. In 1984, Kenya's first rhinoceros sanctuary was established within the park.

Moreover, the lake itself holds several prestigious designations: Ramsar Wetland, UNESCO World Heritage Site (alongside neighboring lakes Elmenteita and Bogoria), and IBA status (Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas). For many years, the water was the gathering point for a vast colony of flamingos. However, this phenomenon has diminished since 2012 due to severe flooding that reduced bird breeding grounds. In recent years, promising signs suggest a return of flamingos—much to the delight of visitors and park authorities.

Visiting Lake Nakuru National Park

Come witness wildlife in its most spectacular form at Lake Nakuru National Park, approximately 150 km northwest of Nairobi. Spanning 188 km², the reserve showcases extraordinary faunal diversity and varied landscapes that are sure to captivate you.

Encounters with Africa's finest wildlife

While flamingo populations may not reach the millions once seen here, over 400 other bird species await discovery—African fish eagles, white pelicans, woolly-necked storks and more. Beyond the avifauna, rhinoceros represent the park's second major draw. Around 150 animals, both black and white species, inhabit the reserve. Cheetahs, lions, hyenas, buffalo, hippopotamuses, zebras and giraffes complete the scene. Leopards, more elusive, primarily hunt at night; spotting their camouflaged coats requires a trained eye. When exploring wooded areas, exercise caution—pythons navigate these regions.

Premier viewpoints for photography

Baboon Cliff, perched on the western shore of Lake Nakuru, is the unmissable spot for photographers. The trail along the escarpment offers varying angles for diverse compositions. The name derives from the baboon troop inhabiting the area. Baboon Cliff is also an excellent picnic destination. Don't overlook Makalia Falls in the park's southern section—a popular camping site.

From Nairobi, reach the town of Nakuru by car via the A104 road. The park entrance lies roughly 4 km south of town. You can also access the reserve from Maasai Mara National Park via a succession of paved and gravel roads in approximately five hours. Additionally, an airstrip at Naishi in the park's south enables flights from Nairobi—just thirty minutes away, perfect for saving time, though schedules should be confirmed as services are limited.

When to visit?

Temperatures remain fairly consistent throughout Kenya's year due to its equatorial location. At Lake Nakuru National Park, given its 1,700-meter altitude, expect daytime averages of 25–28°C and nighttime lows around 10°C. For optimal safari conditions, plan your visit between July and early October, or between January and March—both dry seasons. The wet season peaks April through May; best avoided, as earth tracks become nearly impassable during and after heavy rains.

Opening hours and fees

Lake Nakuru National Park is accessible from 6 a.m. to 6:15 p.m., with the reserve closing at 7 p.m. Note: walking unaccompanied without a KWS forest guide is prohibited. Admission fees for foreign non-residents are:

• Adult: $80
• Child and student: $40

For Kenyan nationals:

• Adult: 1,000 KSh
• Child: 200 KSh

For foreign residents of Kenya:

• Adult: 1,000 KSh
• Child: 500 KSh

Vehicles are charged according to seating capacity. To save money and streamline admission procedures, purchase a SafariCard from Kenya Wildlife Service.