About the Reserve
Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya’s most compact yet incredibly wildlife-rich parks, located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley about 2–3 hours from Nairobi. Centered around the shallow alkaline Lake Nakuru, the park is famous for its shimmering flocks of flamingos that often turn the shoreline pink, as well as its strong sanctuary status for both black and white rhinos. Despite its relatively small size, the park packs in diverse landscapes — open grasslands, rocky escarpments, acacia forests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints like Baboon Cliff — creating a beautiful mix of habitats that support an impressive concentration of animals. Game drives here feel rewarding because wildlife sightings are frequent and close together, making Nakuru perfect for travelers who want classic safari experiences (rhinos, buffalo, lions, giraffes) without covering huge distances. It’s often described as a relaxed, high-success safari park ideal for short stays, families, and first-time visitors.
Highlights
- Excellent rhino sightings (black & white)
- High wildlife density in small area (easy sightings
- Close to Nairobi
- Great birdwatching destination
- Scenic landscapes & viewpoints
- Ideal for 1–2 day safaris
- Good roads and accessible year-round
- Family-friendly park size
Good to Know
- Smaller park (can feel less “wild” than Mara)
- No elephants
- Flamingos seasonal (numbers vary)
- Can get busy during peak season
- Limited walking activities compared to Naivasha
- Some areas flood during heavy rains
Wildlife & Nature
Experiences
Game drives (morning & afternoon)
Rhino tracking and photography
Bird watching along the lake shore
Picnic lunches at designated sites
Scenic viewpoints (Baboon Cliff & Lion Hill)
Nature walks at waterfalls (Makalia Falls area)
Camping
Lodge relaxation with lake views
Short stopover safari en route to Maasai Mara