Lake Nakuru for a first safari

Lake Nakuru is a good choice for a first safari.

Suitability: ★★★★★

Lake Nakuru National Park lies on the floor of the Great Rift Valley around a semi-alkaline lake, surrounded by grassland and woodland. The fenced park is one of Kenya's most reliable places to see rhino.

Why Lake Nakuru for a first safari?

• 1–2 days are enough for a good experience.

What awaits you in Lake Nakuru

• Kenya's first government rhino sanctuary, with black and white rhino
• A soda lake that attracts flamingos and pelicans in varying numbers
• About 450 bird species
• Viewpoints and Makalia Falls
• A convenient stop between Nairobi and the Masai Mara

Wildlife you may encounter: lions, leopards, black rhino, white rhino, buffalo, giraffes, zebras and hippos.

Suggested time on the ground: 1 to 2 days. The park borders Nakuru town in the Rift Valley and is about 3-4 hours by road from Nairobi.

Activities that fit

game drives.

When to go

The best period overall is June to October and December to March.

The park is fenced and compact, so game viewing stays fairly consistent; tracks are easier in the drier months.

Other destinations for a first safari

• Masai Mara Kenya
• Merzouga Morocco
• Ngorongoro Tanzania
• Pilanesberg South Africa
• Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
• Kruger South Africa

Full Lake Nakuru guideBest safaris for a first safari

No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.

Sources: Kenya Wildlife Service - Lake Nakuru National Park · Climates to Travel - Kenya (Nakuru normals)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.