Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park

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Rothschild's giraffe - Shutterstock / prasanthdaskkm
Kenya|Africa
82
Wildlife
88
Access
78
Stay
72
Safety
88
Photo
62
Crowds
70
Cost
86
Birding

Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya's most practical and photogenic compact parks, where alkaline-lake habitat, acacia woodland, cliffs, rhinos, Rothschild's giraffes, and changing waterbird concentrations create a very rewarding short safari destination. It is strongest for travelers who want an easy East African wildlife stop with strong birding and rhino value rather than a huge wilderness system.

19°
Partly cloudy

Gallery

Wildlife Species

Black and white rhino

Uncommon

Mammal · Best time: Morning and late afternoon

Rothschild''s giraffe and plains game

Common

Mammal · Best time: All day

Flamingos and waterbirds when conditions suit

Uncommon

Bird · Best time: Variable by water levels

Leopard in woodland sectors

Rare

Mammal · Best time: Dawn or dusk

Geography

Terrain
Alkaline lake, acacia woodland, grassland, escarpment viewpoints
Elevation
Highland Rift Valley basin
Climate
Mild tropical highland
Area
About 188 km2

Weather

Best Months
JuneJulyAugustSeptemberJanuaryFebruary
Avg. Temperature
10-30°C
Rainfall
Works year-round, with bird concentrations varying with lake conditions
Humidity
40-85%

Getting There

Nearest Airport

Nairobi with easy road access into the Rift Valley

One of the easiest serious wildlife parks in Kenya to reach

Transport
  • Short safari from Nairobi
  • Rhino and birding-focused day or overnight trip
  • Combined Rift Valley circuit

Where to Stay

Park lodges and Nakuru-area stays

Budget to Premium

Lodge or Hotel · Very practical by Kenya standards

Safari camps in the Rift Valley region

Mid-range

Camp · Useful within wider circuits

Location

-0.3700, 36.0800View larger map

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