Rhinos, Flamingos and Lions in the Trees
Lake Nakuru is compact compared to Kenya’s bigger reserves, but few parks pack in this much. A fenced sanctuary, a soda lake, forest, cliffs and grassland all sit within a small, easy to explore area.
The rhino sanctuary. Established in 1987, the sanctuary now protects around 150 rhinos, roughly 80 percent white rhino with their wide upper lip, and 20 percent black rhino with a hooked lip. It’s one of the most reliable places in Kenya to see both.
Rothschild’s giraffe. Introduced to the park in 1977 for their protection, this endangered giraffe subspecies, known for its pale “stockings,” now thrives here.
Tree climbing lions. One of only a handful of places in Africa where lions regularly rest in acacia branches, larger and more muscular than typical lions, which is thought to be why they can manage it.
The flamingos. Lake Nakuru is famous for the pink flocks of flamingos along its shores, though numbers shift with water levels, Baboon Cliff is the best vantage point when they’re present.
Film history. The park’s western escarpment views were used in the film Out of Africa.
Wildlife You’ll See on a Lake Nakuru Safari
- Black and white rhino, reliably spotted inside the dedicated sanctuary
- Rothschild’s giraffe, an endangered subspecies with distinctive pale markings
- Tree climbing lions, a rare sight found in very few parks worldwide
- Leopard, buffalo, zebra and waterbuck, all present, with leopard sightings increasing in recent years
- Flamingos and pelicans, numbers vary with the lake’s water levels
- Over 450 bird species, one of Kenya’s top birdwatching parks
The Landscape
Lake Nakuru sits at the heart of the park, a shallow alkaline lake surrounded by acacia woodland, grassland plains and cliffs. Lion Hill, Baboon Cliff and Out of Africa viewpoint all offer sweeping views over the lake and park below
How to Get to Lake Nakuru National Park
By road from Nairobi. About 3 hours, roughly 160 kilometres via the Rift Valley escarpment, with dramatic views along the way.
By air. Charter flights from Nairobi are available on request, cutting the journey to under an hour.
Best Time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru is a year round destination, and its compact size means good wildlife viewing regardless of season.
June to October and January to February. The dry seasons, easier roads and clearer game viewing.
March to May and November to December. The rains bring greener scenery and fewer visitors, though some roads can get muddy.