Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is a compact 188 square kilometer haven in Kenya's Great Rift Valley, centered on the spectacular alkaline Lake Nakuru. The park is world-renowned for the millions of pink flamingos that periodically transform the lake's shores into a shimmering pink spectacle, creating one of nature's most extraordinary ornithological displays alongside over 450 other bird species.

Beyond its avian treasures, Lake Nakuru has been designated a rhino sanctuary and is one of Kenya's best locations to observe both black and white rhinos, with populations carefully protected within electric fences. The park also supports healthy populations of lions, leopards, buffalos, and the rare Rothschild's giraffe, making it a Big Five destination despite its small size.

The park's varied habitats from lake and marshland to euphorbia forest, acacia woodland, and rocky cliffs create diverse ecosystems within a compact area. Baboon Cliff provides spectacular panoramic viewpoints over the lake and surrounding landscapes. The combination of incredible birdlife, guaranteed rhino sightings, predators, and stunning Rift Valley scenery makes Lake Nakuru an essential stop on any Kenyan safari, perfect for half-day or full-day visits from Nairobi.

Highlights

• Millions of pink flamingos
• Rhino sanctuary with black and white rhinos
• Rothschild's giraffe population
• Baboon Cliff viewpoint
• Over 450 bird species

Things to Do

• Game drives
• Bird watching
• Baboon Cliff viewpoint
• Photography
• Picnicking

Year-round; June to March for flamingo concentrations