A shallow, alkaline lake, Lake Nakuru lies 160 kilometres north of Nairobi in the Great Rift Valley.
Black and white rhinos thrive in the park, which has its fair share of Cape buffalo, African wild dog, zebra, eland, waterbuck and lion. In recent years it has attracted fame for the high number of leopard sightings. Acacia and euphorbia forests are havens for animals during the heat of the day, making Nakuru an excellent game-viewing destination, while the hippo pool is a favourite spot for picnics.
Both lesser and greater flamingos feed on the algae which thrive in the warm water, and their vast numbers can quite literally turn the lake pink in colour! The lake varies in size from five to thirty square kilometres – depending on rainfall – and is rich in birdlife – there are 400 resident species on the lake and in the surrounding park. Thousands of little grebes and white-winged black terns are frequently seen, as are black-winged stilts, pelicans, cormorants, avocets, ducks and – in the European winter – many migrant waders.
- Ideal for viewing: black rhino, defassa waterbuck, lion, Rothschild’s giraffe, white rhino
- Where: Rift Valley Province, Kenya
- View on Protected Planet Lake Nakuru National Park
Wildlife trips
1 related trip idea. Bear in mind that our trip ideas give you a sense of what’s possible but our strength is in tailoring your itinerary.
Ultimate Kenya Safari
A rich blend of outstanding scenery, memorable wildlife and award winning properties.
Places to stay
2 related places to stay. But there are more options we can offer, just ask us for more details.
Lion Hill Lodge
This comfortable lodge nestles on the so-called Lion Hill, amidst beautifully landscaped tropical gardens, overlooking the the Rift Valley and Lake Nakuru with its population of pink flamingoes.
Little Governors Camp
Set within the Masai Mara Natural Reserve, Little Governor’s Camp is intimate in character and comprises just 17 luxurious tents tucked away around a large watering hole teeming with animals and birdlife.