Lake Nakuru
Nakuru County, Great Rift Valley
About Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru National Park surrounds a beautiful alkaline lake in Kenya’s Rift Valley. It is an important sanctuary for both black and white rhinos and often rewards visitors with leopard, lion, buffalo, Rothschild’s giraffe and abundant birdlife.
Flamingo numbers fluctuate with water chemistry and food supply; even when flamingo flocks are smaller, the park remains a strong wildlife destination with viewpoints overlooking the lake.
The park is a favourite mid-circuit stop between Nairobi, Naivasha and the Mara, or as part of a Nakuru–Naivasha short break.
Best time to visit
Year-round wildlife. Dry months (June–October and January–February) often improve road conditions and visibility. Birding can be rewarding after rains.
Activities
Game drives for rhinos and big game
Bird watching along the shoreline
Viewpoints and picnic sites
Photography of lake landscapes
Optional spa/hotel leisure in Nakuru town area
Travel information
Roughly 2.5–3.5 hours from Nairobi by road via the Rift Valley escarpment. Ideal to combine with Lake Naivasha the same day or next morning.
