Lake Nakuru National Park

The Famous Rhino & Flamingo Sanctuary

Lake Nakuru is one of the jewels of the Great Rift Valley. This shallow alkaline lake is world-famous for the vast flocks of lesser flamingos that often create a shimmering pink ribbon along its shores. More than just a bird paradise, the surrounding national park is a crucial sanctuary for endangered rhinos and the rare Rothschild\'s giraffe.

Best time to go

Year-round

Location

Great Rift Valley, Central Kenya

Size

188 km² (73 mi²)

Good for

Rhino Sanctuary, Bird Watching, Flamingos

Rhino Sightings

One of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos.

Birdlife

Legendary for its flamingo populations and over 400 other bird species.

About Lake Nakuru

The park was first established as a bird sanctuary and has since been expanded to protect a wider range of wildlife. The lake\'s alkalinity supports a dense population of algae, which in turn attracts the flamingos. While the number of flamingos can fluctuate depending on water levels, the park\'s other attractions make it a fantastic year-round destination.

Surrounding the lake is a diverse landscape of acacia woodland, grassy plains, and rocky escarpments. This varied habitat supports a high density of game, including the endangered Rothschild\'s giraffe, which was translocated here for protection. The entire park is fenced, creating a successful sanctuary for its thriving rhino population, making it one of the most reliable places to see them.