Lake Nakuru National Park

Overview

Lake Nakuru is one of the Rift Valley lakes, located at an elevation of 1,754 m above sea level. It lies to the south of Nakuru, in the rift valley of Kenya and is protected by Lake Nakuru National Park. The lake’s abundance of algae used to attract a vast quantity of flamingos that famously lined the shore.

Resting squarely on the floor of the Great Rift Valley and surrounded by the characteristic woody and bushy grassland, her sky mirrored lake waters extending to an expansive mass of semi-alkaline water, Lake Nakuru National Park is a ball of beautiful sights waiting to be explored. A wide ecological diversity, varied wildlife habitats, plant and animal species await the wild outdoor lovers.

The park is a uniquely rewarding game-viewing destination and a successful sanctuary for both the endangered black rhinos and white rhinos.

Attractions

• Lake Nakuru: Known for its seasonal flocks of flamingos and pelicans, the lake offers a picturesque sight. During peak times, the lake appears pink due to the flamingos that gather to feed on the lake’s algae.
• Rhino Sanctuary: Lake Nakuru is a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, offering one of the best places to see these endangered animals in Kenya.
• Makalia Falls: A beautiful waterfall located within the park, particularly scenic during the rainy season. It’s a favorite picnic and photography spot.
• Baboon Cliff: This high vantage point offers sweeping views over Lake Nakuru and the surrounding plains, ideal for photography and spotting wildlife from above.
• Lion Hill: Another viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the lake and park, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the Rift Valley landscape.

Activities

• Game Drives: The park’s well-maintained roads make for enjoyable game drives, with opportunities to see lions, leopards, rhinos, and other animals.
• Birdwatching: With over 450 species of birds, Lake Nakuru is a top birdwatching destination. Species include flamingos, pelicans, African fish eagles, and various waterfowl.
• Photography: The breathtaking views, especially from Baboon Cliff, combined with the park’s vibrant wildlife, make it an ideal spot for photographers.
• Guided Nature Walks: Some parts of the park allow for guided walks, where visitors can experience the lake’s surroundings and smaller wildlife on foot.
• Picnicking: The park’s scenic spots, like Makalia Falls, make for perfect picnic sites where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.

What to See/Expect

• Wildlife: Lake Nakuru is known for its large population of rhinos, with both black and white rhinos frequently seen. Other animals include lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes (Rothschild’s giraffe being a special attraction), hippos, zebras, and various antelope species.
• Birdlife: The lake’s seasonal flamingo flocks are an iconic sight, while the surrounding woodlands and water attract species like cormorants, herons, and storks.
• Scenic Landscape: The park’s lush acacia woodlands, cliffs, and savanna landscapes add to the visual appeal, contrasting with the lake’s alkaline shores.

Best Time to Visit

• June to March: The dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing as the animals are easier to spot near the lake and around water sources. The birdlife is also vibrant during this period.
• April to May: Although the rainy season may limit access to some parts of the park, it brings a green landscape and fills up seasonal water points, which attract additional wildlife.