Africa · Kenya
Lake Nakuru National Park
A Rift Valley jewel — when flamingos coat the alkaline lake pink and black and white rhino roam the yellow fever forests, Nakuru is one of Africa's great spectacles.
About Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Africa's most celebrated bird and rhino sanctuaries. The soda lake has at various times hosted up to two million flamingos, turning the shoreline an extraordinary shade of pink. Nakuru is a sanctuary for both black and white rhino — one of the highest densities in Kenya — alongside lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, and remarkable bird diversity. Its compact size makes it ideal for a focused two-day safari.
Highlights
- Flamingo flocks on the soda lake
- Both black and white rhino
- Rift Valley viewpoint over the lake
- Acacia yellow fever tree forest
- Lion and leopard in compact park
Best Time to Visit
Year-round destination. Best visited alongside Masai Mara for a classic Kenya safari circuit.
Weather & Seasons
Lake Nakuru sits at 1,759m in the Rift Valley, giving it a pleasantly cool highland climate. The park is accessible year-round; flamingo numbers and water levels vary with rainfall patterns across the region.
Cool Dry Season
Jun – Sep
Cool and dry with excellent game viewing. Flamingos often at their most concentrated on the lake.
Warm Dry Season
Jan – Feb
Warm and clear with good wildlife. Often high flamingo numbers after the short rains.
Short Rains
Oct – Dec
Mild showers with lush vegetation. Still excellent for wildlife with often spectacular skies.
Long Rains
Mar – May
Regular showers. The park remains accessible with good birding and flamingo activity.
Gallery
Tours and lodges for this destination are coming soon.