Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park is one among Kenya’s hottest and accessible safari locations, situated within the central a part of the nation, about 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Nairobi.
The park is understood for its gorgeous surroundings, various wildlife, and its significance as a bird-watching haven, notably for flamingos.
Right here’s a complete information that will help 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 situated close to the city of Nakuru, making it a simple day journey or brief keep from Nairobi.
The park covers round 188 sq. kilometers (73 sq. miles), with Lake Nakuru itself being the central function. The lake is alkaline, and it sits at an altitude of 1,760 meters (5,770 ft) above sea degree.
The park is one among Kenya’s most well-known fowl reserves, notably for the massive populations of flamingos that congregate on the lake. Additionally it is residence 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
Greatest 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 also be ample, although flamingo numbers can fluctuate relying on water ranges and meals availability.
- Inexperienced season (November to Might): The moist season in Lake Nakuru affords lush greenery, which makes the panorama extra lovely. Whereas it’s a quieter time with fewer vacationers, the rains could make roads slippery and typically tougher to navigate, particularly in the course of the lengthy rains (March to Might). Nonetheless, it’s a wonderful time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
High Points of interest 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 lovely and iconic wildlife spectacles on this planet.
Along with flamingos, the lake attracts a variety of fowl species, together with pelicans, eagles, storks, and extra. Birdwatching right here is phenomenal year-round, particularly for ornithologists.
Rothschild Giraffes
Lake Nakuru is among the greatest locations to identify the endangered Rothschild giraffe, a subspecies of giraffe characterised by its lighter shade and extra irregular, star-shaped patches. The park has a devoted giraffe sanctuary for his or her safety and conservation.
Rhinos
The park can also 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 affords spectacular panoramic views of Lake Nakuru and the encompassing park. It’s a preferred cease for guests trying to soak up 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 lovely views of the lake, the park, and the encompassing Rift Valley panorama.
Wildlife
Along with giraffes and rhinos, Lake Nakuru is residence to all kinds of wildlife, together with lions, leopards, buffalo, zebras, and varied species of antelope, similar to impalas and gazelles. The park additionally has some predators, similar to hyenas and jackals.
Makalia Falls
Positioned on the southern facet of the park, the Makalia Falls is an attractive 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 ideal picture alternative.
The best way to Get to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
There are two methods to get to Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park, by highway or air.
By highway
- 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 highway that leads on to the park’s most important entrance.
- From Naivasha: For those who’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’ll be able to 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 obtainable from Nairobi to close by airstrips that may be accessed by way of non-public lodges or safari camps.
For those who e book your journey with a journey operator like Trumpet Adventures, they’ll arrange all transfers for you. Get in contact with them instantly beneath to learn the way they can assist arrange the final 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 affords lovely views of Lake Nakuru, glorious service, and luxurious facilities. It has quite a lot of safari actions, together with recreation 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 affords an genuine safari expertise with well-appointed tents and a tranquil ambiance. It’s situated simply exterior the park gates, permitting quick access for recreation drives.
Finances lodging
- Public Campsites: The park affords a number of campsites for budget-conscious vacationers. These campsites can help you expertise the park’s wilderness up shut, although you will have to deliver your personal 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 throughout the park for individuals who desire a extra rustic expertise.
Non-public 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 generally is a good different should you’re on the lookout for extra secluded choices.
Safari Actions in Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park
Sport drives
A basic recreation drive is among the greatest methods to discover the park. Most lodging supply recreation 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 among Kenya’s premier birdwatching locations. With over 450 species of birds, together with the well-known flamingos, it’s a must-visit for fowl lovers. Guided fowl walks can be found for these eager on recognizing and figuring out species.
Nature walks
Nature walks with a park ranger supply an intimate expertise of the park’s natural world. They’re a good way to be taught in regards to the ecosystem and see the park’s smaller creatures, similar to bugs and birds.
Images
The park’s wealthy biodiversity and exquisite landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise. Whether or not you’re capturing 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 couple of prime ideas for visiting Lake Nakuru Nationwide Park:
- Early begins: Sport drives are greatest within the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most energetic. The park can get scorching throughout noon, and animals are inclined to relaxation throughout this time.
- Convey binoculars and a digicam: The birdlife is spectacular, and the animals are sometimes simple to identify, so having binoculars and an excellent digicam will aid you take advantage of your go to.
- Respect wildlife: At all times maintain a protected distance from animals and observe the park’s guidelines. Don’t disturb animals or feed them, and all the time keep in your car until accompanied by a information throughout strolling safaris.
- Pack for the climate: The climate in Lake Nakuru will 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 light-weight jacket or sweater could also be helpful within the night.
- Keep hydrated: Convey loads of water, particularly in the course of the dry season, as it might get fairly scorching.
