National park
National park
Lake Nakuru National Park
Rhinos, flamingos and Rift Valley lake views.
- Rift Valley
- Best: Jun–Oct, Dec–Feb
- Entry from US$90
Overview
- Area
- 188 km²
- National park since
- 1968
- Rhino sanctuary since
- 1987
- Bird species
- About 450
- From Nairobi
- 156 km
Conservation at Lake Nakuru began in 1961 as a bird sanctuary; the lake and its shore became a national park in 1968, and the park grew to its current 188 km² in 1974.
In 1987 it became Kenya's first government-run rhino sanctuary, and today it holds one of the country's largest populations of black and white rhinos. Lions, leopards, buffaloes and Rothschild's giraffes are also seen.
The semi-alkaline lake attracts flamingos and pelicans, with about 450 bird species recorded. Viewpoints such as Baboon Cliff overlook the lake.
- Black and white rhinos
One of the best places in Kenya to see both.
- Flamingos and pelicans
Numbers change with lake levels.
- Makalia Falls and viewpoints
Waterfall and cliff-top views over the lake.
Things to do
- Game drives
Lake shore, woodland and viewpoints.
- Birdwatching
Lake shore and acacia woodland.
Wildlife and nature to look for
When to go
Good all year; dry months are easiest for driving.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Good
- May: Good
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Best
- Nov: Good
- Dec: Best
Fees and permits
Official rates from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS Conservation Fees 2025 (Legal Notice 160 of 2025)). Children, vehicle and accommodation rates are in the full tariff.
| Item | Foreign non-resident | Foreign resident | Rest of Africa | East African citizen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Park entry (adult)per person, valid 24 hoursChildren 5–17: KES 750 / KES 1,050 / US$45 / US$25 (citizen / resident / non-resident / African citizen). | US$90 | KES 2,025 | US$50 | KES 1,500 |
- Park entry (adult)per person, valid 24 hours
- Foreign non-resident
- US$90
- Foreign resident
- KES 2,025
- Rest of Africa
- US$50
- East African citizen
- KES 1,500
Children 5–17: KES 750 / KES 1,050 / US$45 / US$25 (citizen / resident / non-resident / African citizen).
- Fees are paid cashless through KWSPay on eCitizen. Children are aged 5–17.
- The Kenya Tourism Federation challenged these rates in the High Court in October 2025; KWS republished the same rates in 2026. Confirm the amount when you pay.
Getting there
- By roadFrom NairobiAbout 3 hours
156 km on the A104; Main Gate is 4 km from Nakuru city.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
Photos
Know before you go
- The park is fenced and compact; a half day or full day works well.
- Combine with Lake Naivasha and the Maasai Mara.
Frequently asked questions
Are there still flamingos at Lake Nakuru?
Yes, but numbers vary with water levels and salinity, and many flamingos move between Rift Valley lakes.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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Places to pair with Lake Nakuru National Park
National park
National reserveSouthwestern Kenya
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Big cats, open plains and the Great Migration river crossings.