Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park, near Nakuru town in Kenya, is a hidden gem known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. It’s a favorite among those seeking a touch of nature and the thrill of encountering unique animals.
Sprawling across approximately 188 square kilometers, Lake Nakuru National Park boasts a diverse terrain encompassing grasslands, acacia forests, and, most notably, the picturesque soda lake, Lake Nakuru. This alkaline lake is famous for its vibrant algal blooms, creating breathtaking hues that attract flocks of flamingos, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
As you explore, the park unveils more than just its wildlife treasures. Witness the dramatic landscapes featuring the iconic Menengai Crater and the picturesque Makalia Falls. Lake Nakuru National Park promises a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue for every visitor.
Beyond the mesmerizing birdlife, Lake Nakuru is home to a variety of animals, with the charismatic hippopotamus often spotted in its waters. The park also hosts an array of wildlife, including african lions, giraffes, zebras, offering a thrilling safari experience.
Lake Nakuru National Park Safari Tours
10 Days
Big Five of Kenya Safari
7 Days
Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru & Amboseli
3 Days
Masai Mara, Lake Naivasha & Lake Nakuru
Wildlife in Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru National Park is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream, boasting a captivating array of species against its picturesque backdrop. The iconic flamingos create a breathtaking sight on the alkaline lake, painting the water with hues of pink. Beyond the flamingos, the park is home to the “Big Five“, featuring lions and cape buffaloes, while giraffes gracefully roam the landscapes. Zebras add their unique patterns to the scenery, and wildebeest graze alongside other herbivores, contributing to the park’s dynamic and harmonious ecosystem. The diverse birdlife, including numerous species besides flamingos, further establishes Lake Nakuru as a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike, providing an immersive safari experience in the heart of Kenya.
Mammals
- Rothschild’s giraffe
- Black rhinoceros
- Lion
- Zebra
- Hippopotamus
- Common warthog
- Striped hyena
Birds
- Greater flamingo
- African fish eagle
- Verreaux’s eagle
- African pygmy kingfisher
- Rufous-necked dik-dik
- Superb starling
- African spoonbill
Reptiles
- Nile crocodile
- African rock python
- Agama agama
- Nile monitor lizard
- Puff adder
- Speckle-throated agama
- Beaded lizard
Best Time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park
The best time to visit Lake Nakuru National Park largely depends on your interests. If witnessing the captivating pink spectacle of flamingos is a priority, the optimal time is during the dry season from July to October. During this period, the water levels in the lake decrease, exposing more alkaline mudflats, attracting a larger population of these iconic birds.
If you are keen on catching a glimpse of a diverse cast of wildlife, the sweet spot to visit Lake Nakuru National Park is from June to March, steering clear of the heavy rains in April and May. This is when the landscape comes alive with lush vegetation, creating a perfect setting for an animal extravaganza.
Ultimately, Lake Nakuru National Park’s charm is year round, each season offering a unique perspective on its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Ideal Times in Lake Nakuru
General Wildlife Viewing
(June to March)
Get ready for an exciting wildlife safari from June to March! This is the best time to see a bunch of cool animals like lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and zebras. The weather is nice and sunny, with just a little rain. The best part? The park is not too crowded, so you can enjoy the animals without too many people around.
Birding
(March to May and November to December)
Calling all bird lovers! March to May and November to December are your go-to months. That’s when you can see amazing migratory birds, including the famous flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Thanks to some rain, the park turns all green, attracting lots of different birds.
Avoiding Crowds
If you are all about tranquility, consider coming from April to June or September to October. These are the not so busy months, kind of like a secret time to visit. While it is mostly dry, there might be a bit of rain. You might need to be patient to spot wildlife.
Lake Nakuru Climate
Lake Nakuru National Park is located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley. It experiences a distinct climate divided into two primary seasons, the dry season and wet season. Dry season spans from June to October and wet season stretches from November to May. The Park has mild temperature ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 27°C (81°F).
April and May bring lush greenery with substantial rainfall, while July and August paint a golden-brown landscape. With an average annual rainfall of 800 mm (31 inches), the park sustains its diverse ecosystem. Whether you fancy the vibrant wet season or the unique charm of the dry season, Lake Nakuru National Park offers a year-round spectacle for nature enthusiasts.
Lake Nakuru climate chart
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Min (°C) | 9 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Max (°C) | 27 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
How to Reach Kenya
Kenya has excellent air connections worldwide, linking it to Europe, North America, Asia, and other African countries with direct flights. The primary gateway to Kenya is the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), situated near Nairobi, the capital. Additionally, Kenya boasts other international airports like Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa, Kisumu International Airport (KIS) and Eldoret International Airport (EDL).
You can reach Kenya from various major cities thanks to well known airlines like IndiGo, Emirates, Kenya Airways, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Air France, British Airways, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Swiss. These airlines offer flights from many key airports around the world and make your journey to Kenya accessible and worry free.
How to get to Lake Nakuru
Your Lake Nakuru National Park adventure typically starts with a flight to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). Once you land chouce is yours. Choose between an adventurous road trip, navigating bumpy roads, or a quick air transfer to lake nakuru national park. Your decision depends on your preference.
When planning, consider the season for specific wildlife events, like the captivating gatherings of flamingos, which vary throughout the year.
By Air
There are flights from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru National Park. The most popular option is to fly to Naishi Airstrip, which is located within the park’s southern region. This is a small airstrip that can only accommodate light aircraft, so it is necessary to book your flight in advance. The flight from Nairobi to Naishi Airstrip takes about 30 minutes.
By Road
Lake Nakuru is roughly 149 kilometers from Nairobi, and you can reach it by road in approximately 2-3 hours. You can hire a private vehicle or take a bus from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru. The journey provides you with the opportunity to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way.
Some History about Lake Nakuru
Lake Nakuru National Park traces its roots to the 1950s when it was designated as a bird sanctuary to safeguard flamingo populations. In 1961, it expanded and gained national park status, quickly becoming a top tourist destination in Kenya.
Named “Nakuru” in the Maasai language, translating to “Dusty Place,” the park reflects its arid climate and the dust carried from the nearby Rift Valley Escarpment.
A standout feature is the soda lake, nourished by hot springs and volcanic vents. This lake’s high alkalinity fosters an ideal habitat for flamingos, thriving on the algae abundant in its waters.
Ready to witness a million flamingos paint the lake pink?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake Nakuru National Park famous for?
Lake Nakuru National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and the spectacular sight of vibrant flamingo flocks on its alkaline lake.
What kind of wildlife can be found in Lake Nakuru National Park?
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and the charismatic hippopotamus. The alkaline lake also attracts numerous flamingos, creating a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Are there other attractions in Lake Nakuru National Park?
Yes, besides its wildlife, the park features iconic landmarks like the Menengai Crater, the scenic Makalia Falls, and historical sites such as the prehistoric Hyrax Hill archaeological site.
How do I book a safari with Big Cats Safari?
Booking a safari with us is a straightforward process. Simply visit our website, select your preferred destination and safari package, and follow the step-by-step booking instructions provided. It’s quick and easy.