Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park is one in every of Kenya’s hottest and accessible safari locations, positioned within the central a part of the nation, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Nairobi.
The park is thought for its beautiful surroundings, various wildlife, and its significance as a bird-watching haven, significantly for flamingos.
Right here’s a complete information that can assist you plan your go to to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park:
Overview of Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park lies on the base of the Nice Rift Valley, surrounded by picturesque hills and acacia woodlands. The park is positioned close to the city of Nakuru, making it a straightforward day journey or brief keep from Nairobi.
The park covers round 188 sq. kilometers (73 sq. miles), with Lake Nakuru itself being the central characteristic. The lake is alkaline, and it sits at an altitude of 1,760 meters (5,770 toes) above sea stage.
The park is one in every of Kenya’s most well-known chook reserves, significantly for the massive populations of flamingos that congregate on the lake. It’s also dwelling to numerous mammals, together with rhinos, lions, leopards, giraffes, and quite a few plant and animal species.
Associated learn: A Information to Visiting Tsavo Nationwide Park in Kenya
Finest Time to Go to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
There are two distinct seasons to go to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park:
- Dry season (June to October): That is the height time for wildlife viewing in Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park. The dry climate means animals are simpler to identify across the lake and watering holes, and the vegetation is thinner. The park’s birdlife can be ample, although flamingo numbers can differ relying on water ranges and meals availability.
- Inexperienced season (November to Might): The moist season in Lake Nakuru presents lush greenery, which makes the panorama extra stunning. Whereas it’s a quieter time with fewer vacationers, the rains could make roads slippery and typically tougher to navigate, particularly throughout the lengthy rains (March to Might). Nonetheless, it’s a wonderful time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
High Sights in Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Lake Nakuru (Flamingo Haven)
Lake Nakuru is the park’s point of interest, identified for its seasonal flocks of pink flamingos. In years when the lake is extra alkaline and the water ranges decrease, the flamingo inhabitants can quantity within the tens of millions. These birds create one of the crucial stunning and iconic wildlife spectacles on the earth.
Along with flamingos, the lake attracts a variety of chook species, together with pelicans, eagles, storks, and extra. Birdwatching right here is phenomenal year-round, particularly for ornithologists.
Rothschild Giraffes
Lake Nakuru is likely one of the greatest locations to identify the endangered Rothschild giraffe, a subspecies of giraffe characterised by its lighter coloration and extra irregular, star-shaped patches. The park has a devoted giraffe sanctuary for his or her safety and conservation.
Rhinos
The park can be identified for its profitable rhino conservation program. Each white rhinos and black rhinos are protected right here, and also you might be able to spot them grazing close to the lake or within the dense vegetation of the park.
Baboon Cliff
This viewpoint presents spectacular panoramic views of Lake Nakuru and the encompassing park. It’s a well-liked cease for guests wanting to absorb the breathtaking surroundings, particularly at dawn or sundown.
Nakuru Hill & Lookout Factors
For extra sweeping views, head to the Nakuru Hill space. There are a number of lookout factors alongside the hills that present stunning views of the lake, the park, and the encompassing Rift Valley panorama.
Wildlife
Along with giraffes and rhinos, Lake Nakuru is dwelling to all kinds of wildlife, together with lions, leopards, buffalo, zebras, and numerous species of antelope, reminiscent of impalas and gazelles. The park additionally has some predators, reminiscent of hyenas and jackals.
Makalia Falls
Positioned on the southern aspect of the park, the Makalia Falls is a good looking cascade of water that provides to the park’s scenic enchantment. It’s a extra tranquil a part of the park, providing a peaceable retreat and an important picture alternative.
The best way to Get to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
There are two methods to get to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park, by street or air.
By street
- From Nairobi: Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park is roughly a 2-3 hour drive from Nairobi (160 km). The commonest route is by way of the Nakuru-Nairobi Freeway (A104), which is a well-maintained street that leads on to the park’s important entrance.
- From Naivasha: In case you’re coming from Lake Naivasha, it’s solely a 1-1.5 hour drive (about 60 km) to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park. This makes it doable to mix visits to each lakes on an extended journey.
By air
You possibly can fly into Nakuru Airport from Nairobi (about 45 minutes by flight) after which switch by automobile to the park. There are additionally small constitution flights out there from Nairobi to close by airstrips that may be accessed by way of non-public lodges or safari camps.
In case you e-book your journey with a journey operator like Trumpet Adventures, they’ll manage all transfers for you. Get in contact with them instantly beneath to learn how they will help manage the last word safari in Kenya:
Lodging Choices in Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Luxurious lodges
- Sarova Lion Hill Sport Lodge: Positioned within the jap a part of the park, this lodge presents stunning views of Lake Nakuru, glorious service, and luxurious facilities. It has quite a lot of safari actions, together with sport drives and guided walks.
- The Lake Nakuru Lodge: Located on the southern a part of the park, it’s a snug mid-range lodge with a swimming pool and good views of the encompassing space.
Mid-range choices
- Flamingo Hill Tented Camp: This camp presents an genuine safari expertise with well-appointed tents and a tranquil ambiance. It’s positioned simply exterior the park gates, permitting easy accessibility for sport drives.
Price range lodging
- Public Campsites: The park presents a number of campsites for budget-conscious vacationers. These campsites help you expertise the park’s wilderness up shut, although you will want to carry your individual gear and provides.
- Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Relaxation Homes: For a extra reasonably priced choice, the KWS operates a number of primary relaxation homes and campsites inside the park for many who desire a extra rustic expertise.
Personal camps & lodges
- A number of non-public lodges and camps function simply exterior the park gates, offering each luxurious and extra economical safari experiences. These could be a good different when you’re on the lookout for extra secluded choices.
Safari Actions in Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Sport drives
A traditional sport drive is likely one of the greatest methods to discover the park. Most lodging provide sport drives both within the morning or afternoon, however a full-day safari gives you the most effective probability to see all kinds of animals.
Birdwatching
Lake Nakuru is one in every of Kenya’s premier birdwatching locations. With over 450 species of birds, together with the well-known flamingos, it’s a must-visit for chook lovers. Guided chook walks can be found for these eager on recognizing and figuring out species.
Nature walks
Nature walks with a park ranger provide an intimate expertise of the park’s natural world. They’re an effective way to study in regards to the ecosystem and see the park’s smaller creatures, reminiscent of bugs and birds.
Images
The park’s wealthy biodiversity and exquisite landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise. Whether or not you’re taking pictures the flamingos at dawn, a lion on the hunt, or panoramic views of the Rift Valley, there’s loads to seize.
Ideas for Visiting Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Listed here are a number of high suggestions for visiting Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park:
- Early begins: Sport drives are greatest within the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most lively. The park can get scorching throughout noon, and animals are inclined to relaxation throughout this time.
- Carry binoculars and a digicam: The birdlife is spectacular, and the animals are sometimes straightforward to identify, so having binoculars and a superb digicam will assist you profit from your go to.
- Respect wildlife: All the time hold a secure distance from animals and comply with the park’s guidelines. Don’t disturb animals or feed them, and all the time keep in your automobile except accompanied by a information throughout strolling safaris.
- Pack for the climate: The climate in Lake Nakuru may be unpredictable, so be ready for each solar and rain. Put on light-weight, breathable clothes, and produce a hat and sunscreen for the day. A lightweight jacket or sweater could also be helpful within the night.
- Keep hydrated: Carry loads of water, particularly throughout the dry season, as it may possibly get fairly scorching.
