Established
1961
Size
188 km²
Elevation
1,750–2,070 m
Ecosystem
Alkaline Lake, Acacia Woodland
Best Time
June – March
Entry Fee
$60 per adult/day
About Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya's most scenic and compact wildlife destinations, centered around the shimmering alkaline Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley. Once famous for hosting up to 2 million flamingos that turned the lake shore pink, Nakuru has evolved into one of Kenya's most important rhino sanctuaries, with both black and white rhino thriving within its fenced boundaries. The park's compact 188 km² size means wildlife encounters are frequent and rewarding — it is entirely possible to see the Big Five in a single game drive. The surrounding acacia forest is one of the best places in Kenya to spot the elusive leopard, and Rothschild's giraffe (one of the rarest giraffe subspecies) was reintroduced here. The park's proximity to Nairobi makes it a perfect day trip or overnight addition to any Kenyan itinerary.
What Makes It Special
Important rhino sanctuary
Flamingo spectacle
Rothschild's giraffe
Compact Big Five
Rift Valley setting
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JunJulAugSepJanFeb
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
OctNovDecMar
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
AprMay
Where to Stay
Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
Mid-RangeHilltop lodge with panoramic views over the lake and surrounding bush.
From $250/night / night
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
Mid-RangeComfortable lodge set among indigenous gardens with lake views.
From $200/night / night
Flamingo Hill Tented Camp
LuxuryStylish tented camp at the edge of the park with close wildlife encounters.
From $400/night / night
Safari Packages
2-Day Lake Nakuru Rhino Safari
Track both black and white rhino in Kenya's best rhino sanctuary
4-Day Rift Valley Explorer: Nakuru, Naivasha & Hell's Gate
Three diverse Rift Valley parks including cycling among wildlife