A flamingo-pink alkaline lake ringed by yellow-fever forest, with one of Kenya's most reliable rhino populations. A short drive from Nairobi, a perfect first stop.
The pink-edged lake
Lake Nakuru is small, compact and packed. The 188 km² park is built around a soda lake whose alkaline waters once attracted millions of flamingos, flocks so dense the lake's edge appeared to shimmer pink. Numbers have dropped since rising water levels diluted the lake, but tens of thousands of flamingos still gather here, especially during the dry season.
Beyond the flamingos
Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya's premier rhino sanctuaries. The park is fully fenced and supports both white rhinos (introduced from South Africa) and black rhinos, your best chance to see both species in a single morning.
You'll also find:
- Rothschild's giraffe, endangered subspecies thriving here
- Leopards, frequently spotted in the yellow-fever fever-tree forest
- Olive baboons, waterbuck, buffalo, lions
- 400+ bird species, pelicans, fish eagles, marabou storks
The viewpoint at Baboon Cliff (1,800 m) gives you a sweeping panorama of the lake and park.
Why include Lake Nakuru
- Just 2.5 hours from Nairobi, ideal first or last stop
- Almost-guaranteed rhino sightings
- Compact, see a lot in one day
- Pairs perfectly with Mara (south-west of here)
Park fees (2026)
USD 60 / adult / day (non-residents)
