Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya’s most beautiful Rift Valley parks, world-renowned for the flocks of flamingos that once turned its shores pink and for its success as a rhino sanctuary. Compact and easily accessible, it is a rewarding stop on any Kenya safari.

Flamingos and birdlife

Lake Nakuru is a birder’s paradise, home to hundreds of species. When conditions are right, thousands of lesser and greater flamingos gather along the shoreline, alongside pelicans, cormorants and fish eagles.

Rhino sanctuary

The park is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhino, protected within a fenced sanctuary. Rothschild’s giraffe, lion, leopard and buffalo are also present.

Best time to visit

Lake Nakuru is rewarding year-round, though the dry seasons offer the easiest game viewing. Bird numbers vary with water levels.

Plan your visit

Lake Nakuru sits conveniently between Nairobi and the Masai Mara. Start planning your Kenya safari with us.

Activities at Lake Nakuru

Beyond simply admiring the flamingos, Lake Nakuru offers plenty to do. Birdwatching is world-class, with over 450 recorded species drawing enthusiasts to the lakeshore for flamingos, pelicans and countless waterbirds. Game drives reveal both black and white rhino, lion, leopard, buffalo, waterbuck and the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe across the park’s grasslands and acacia woodland. For sweeping views over the pink-fringed lake, head to viewpoints such as Baboon Cliff and Out of Africa lookout, and don’t miss Makalia Falls in the south of the park. Photographers and picnickers are well served by the park’s scenic spots.