Lake Nakuru National Park is a compact yet diverse wildlife haven in central Kenya, famous for its birdlife—especially flamingos—and as a sanctuary for endangered rhinos.
Overview
Location: Central Kenya, near Nakuru town (~160 km northwest of Nairobi)
Size: ~188 km²
Centered around: Lake Nakuru, a shallow alkaline lake in the Great Rift Valley
Rhino Sanctuary
A major conservation success story in Kenya
Hosts both black and white rhinos
Rhino sightings are relatively frequent, a highlight for visitors
Other Wildlife
Lions, leopards (often seen in trees), buffalo, giraffes (especially Rothschild’s giraffe), zebras, hyenas, baboons, and antelope
No elephants—due to habitat constraints—but a high chance of seeing four of the Big Five
Scenic Landscapes
Surrounding escarpments and forested areas provide dramatic backdrops
Beautiful lookout points like Baboon Cliff and Lion Hill
Seasonal waterfalls such as Makalia Falls
Practical Info
Category Details
Best time to visit Year-round, but dry season (July–October) is best for wildlife viewing
How to get there ~3 hours by road from Nairobi
Also accessible by daily scheduled flights
Park fees ~$60–$70 per adult per day (varies by nationality)
Accommodation Inside the park: lodges like Sarova Lion Hill, Lake Nakuru Lodge
Outside: Nakuru town offers budget to mid-range hotels
Ideal For:
Short safaris or weekend trips from Nairobi
Birdwatching enthusiasts
Families or first-time safari-goers (due to its accessibility and manageable size)
Those wanting to see rhinos in a natural setting
