Overview
Located in the heart of Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is a paradise for bird watchers, nature lovers, and safari enthusiasts. Famous for its flamingo-covered shores, the park is home to over 400 bird species and a thriving population of black and white rhinos. It also hosts lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, and zebras, offering an incredible safari experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape or an exciting game drive, Lake Nakuru National Park delivers breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.
Quick Facts
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Location: Nakuru County, Kenya
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Size: 188 square kilometers (73 square miles)
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Famous for: Flamingos, rhinos, birdwatching
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Best Time to Visit: June – March (dry season, best for wildlife viewing)
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Entry Fee: Foreigners: $60 per adult per day, Kenyan Residents: KES 1,000 per adult per day
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Time Zone: East Africa Time (EAT, UTC+3)
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Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES), USD widely accepted
Budget Breakdown
| Expense | Local Currency (KES) | USD |
|---|---|---|
| Park Entry (per day) | 9,000 KES | $60 |
| Budget Accommodation (per night) | 6,000 KES | $40 |
| Mid-range Lodge (per night) | 15,000 KES | $100 |
| Luxury Lodge (per night) | 30,000 KES | $200 |
| Meals (per day) | 2,250 KES | $15 |
| Game Drive (per trip) | 9,000 KES | $60 |
| Guide (per day) | 6,000 KES | $40 |
| Total Budget (3-Day Safari) | 135,000 KES | $900 |
Flights to Lake Nakuru
The easiest way to reach Lake Nakuru is by road, but flights are available:
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Flight Time: ~30-40 minutes from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (WIL) to Nakuru Airstrip
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Round-trip Cost: $200 – $400 per person
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Airlines: SafariLink, AirKenya
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Alternative: 2.5-3 hour drive from Nairobi via the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway
Safety Tips
Lake Nakuru National Park is a safe travel destination, but here are a few tips:
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Stay Inside Your Vehicle – Do not exit your car during game drives unless in designated areas.
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Follow Park Rules – Avoid feeding wildlife and respect speed limits.
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Malaria Precautions – Carry mosquito repellent and consider taking anti-malarial medication.
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Keep Valuables Secure – Use safes at lodges and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
Climate & Best Time to Visit
Lake Nakuru has a mild and pleasant climate year-round, with warm days and cool nights.
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Dry Season (June – March): Best for wildlife viewing and flamingo spotting.
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Wet Season (April – May, November): Lush scenery, fewer crowds, but some roads may be muddy.
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Temperature Range: 10°C – 26°C (50°F – 79°F)