
Lake Nakuru National Park is located in the south of Nakuru, the capital of Kenya's Rift Valley Province. It is a park specially established to protect birds and is also one of Kenya's wildlife parks. It was designated as a bird sanctuary in 1960 and officially designated as a national park in 1968. It is one of the earliest national parks established in Africa to protect birds.
The park covers 188 square kilometers, located at an altitude of 1,753 to 2,073 meters. Nestled in a volcanic zone, the lake's high salinity makes it ideal for the growth of plankton, the flamingo's staple food. The park is home to approximately 450 bird species, with the flamingo being particularly renowned, numbering over two million, representing one-third of the world's total. In addition to birds, the park also boasts a variety of other animals, including colobus monkeys, spring rabbits, clawless otters, rock hyraxes, and black rhinos.
The best time to visit Lake Nakuru National Park is from the end of the year to March. During this time, large numbers of flamingos gather at Lake Nakuru, creating a spectacular sight. However, the park is open year-round, so you can also visit at other times to see a variety of birds and wildlife.
Kenya is located in a tropical savannah climate zone with high temperatures year-round. Therefore, it's important to wear sunscreen and moisturize when traveling there. To ensure a safe and smooth trip, it's recommended to learn about local weather conditions and travel precautions in advance and make the appropriate preparations.
【Recommended Activities】
→Flamingo
The park is famous for its flamingos, which you can see in large numbers. Their feathers are bright red and very beautiful. You can watch the flamingos from the lake or take a boat to enjoy the spectacular sight.
→Lake
Lake Nakuru is a beautiful lake with a unique color. You can walk along the lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery, or take a boat tour of the lake to experience the tranquil atmosphere.
→Wildlife
In addition to flamingos, the park is home to a variety of other wild animals, including colobus monkeys, spring rabbits, clawless otters, rock hyraxes, black rhinos, etc. You can visit these animals in their natural habitats by driving or participating in wildlife observation activities.
→Bird Watching
The park is rich in birdlife, including flamingos and other rare species. Bring binoculars and cameras to observe the lives and behaviors of birds at observation points throughout the park or in their natural environments.
→Hot spring
The hot springs at Lake Bogoria are a highlight of the area. Relax and unwind in the comfort and relaxation that the hot springs bring.
【Recommended Play Time】
1-2 days
【Reference Price】
Adults: $75
Children: $40
Ticket prices may fluctuate, so it is recommended that you check the official website or consult a local travel agent before your trip for the latest ticket information.
Open all day
Lake Nakuru National Park was established in 1961 and is renowned for its flamingo population and as a sanctuary for black and white rhinos. It plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and eco-tourism in Kenya.
Located in central Kenya near Nakuru town. Access is by road from Nairobi (about 2–3 hours). Private vehicles, guided safari tours, or buses from Nakuru town are common ways to reach the park. Walking is only allowed in designated areas.
Open year-round, typically from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The dry season (June–October) is best for wildlife viewing, while wet season (November–May) offers lush scenery and abundant birdlife.
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season (July–September), typically a few weeks ahead for safaris or guided tours.
1–2 days is sufficient to explore the park, combining game drives, birdwatching, and scenic viewpoints.
Guided tours are available in English; some tours may offer additional languages. Audio guides are generally not provided as ranger-led tours are preferred.
Start with early morning game drives along the lake and savannah, visit Baboon Cliff mid-morning, have lunch at designated picnic areas, and take an afternoon drive to see rhinos and interior wildlife. Sunset drives along the lake are ideal for photography.
Night drives are occasionally offered with ranger guides. Special birdwatching tours are sometimes available, but light shows are not part of the park experience.
Peak season (July–September) sees higher visitor numbers. Least crowded times are during the wet season (November–May) and on weekdays.
Safari vehicles and lodges accommodate elderly and children. Accessibility for disabled visitors is limited, depending on terrain and vehicle type.
Cash (Kenyan Shilling or USD) is useful for park fees and small purchases. Cards and mobile payments are accepted in lodges and some park facilities.
Lodges and camps inside the park offer restaurants and cafes. Nakuru town nearby has multiple eateries with local and international cuisine.
Yes, most lodges accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and halal diets upon request.
Souvenir shops sell Maasai crafts, beadwork, carvings, wildlife-themed items, and textiles.
Private vehicles, safari tour transfers, or buses to Nairobi or nearby parks like Maasai Mara and Lake Naivasha. Flights from nearby airports to other Kenyan destinations are also available.