Wildebeest Migration / Wildebeest Crossings / Herdtracker

Wildlife / Safaris / Holidays

Lake Nakuru National Park

A Haven for Wildlife, Flamingos, and Breathtaking Landscapes

Lake Nakuru National Park

All About Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park, situated in central Kenya, is famous for its vibrant birdlife, particularly the thousands of flamingos that feed on the lake’s algae. The park also serves as a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close. In addition to rhinos, the park is home to lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, and numerous antelope species.

The park’s varied landscapes, from the shimmering alkaline lake to lush forests and open grasslands, create a picturesque setting for game drives and photography. Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s most accessible parks, making it an excellent choice for a short safari trip or a weekend getaway.

The best time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park

When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Nakuru National Park?

Lake Nakuru is a year round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The dry season (June to October) offers excellent wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense. Roads are more accessible, making game drives easier. This is a high season, so expect more visitors.

The wet season (March to May) transforms the park into a lush paradise, attracting migratory birds, including flamingos. However, heavy rains can make roads muddy and wildlife more scattered. The short rains (November to December) offer a balance of greenery and good wildlife visibility with fewer tourists. The peak season (December to February) is warm, with abundant wildlife and ideal conditions for photography, though it draws more visitors.

Lake Nakuru National Park Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Lake Nakuru National Park

Season Months Temperature Range Weather Conditions
Dry Season June – October 12°C – 25°C (54°F – 77°F) Sunny, minimal rain, best for game drives
Short Rains November – December 14°C – 26°C (57°F – 79°F) Light rains, greener landscapes
Wet Season March – May 15°C – 27°C (59°F – 81°F) Heavy rainfall, lush scenery, excellent birdwatching

How to Get to Lake Nakuru National Park

Ways to Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park

By Road: Lake Nakuru National Park is about 160 km (99 miles) from Nairobi, a 2.5 to 3-hour drive along a well-maintained highway. The main entrance is through the Njoro or Lanet gates. Public transport options, such as matatus (shared minibuses), are available from Nairobi to Nakuru town, but you’ll need a taxi or private vehicle to access the park.

By Air: For those preferring a faster journey, domestic flights are available from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Naishi airstrip inside the park. Charter flights can also be arranged for private travel.

Google Map of Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park Map Showing its location

The below Lake Nakuru National Park Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Lake Nakuru National Park Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Lake Nakuru National Park

Category Citizen (KES) Resident (KES) Non-Resident (USD)
Adults 860 1,030 60
Children (3-17 yrs) 215 515 35
Students 215 515 35

Note: Fees are subject to change. Always check with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the latest rates.

To enter Lake Nakuru National Park, visitors must pay park fees through the eCitizen platform. Follow these steps:

  1. Go to kws.ecitizen.go.ke to access the Kenya Wildlife Service portal.
  2. Log in using your ID number and password.
  3. Navigate to the services tab and select “Kenya Wildlife Service.”
  4. Choose “Lake Nakuru National Park” from the list.
  5. Enter the number of adults and children in your group.
  6. Choose your preferred payment method—MPESA, credit/debit card, or bank transfer.
  7. If using MPESA, enter the special booking application number as your account number.
  8. Complete the transaction and receive a confirmation message.
  9. Save your payment receipt as proof of entry.

 

Book a Wildebeest Safari

Get in touch with us directly and our experts will be ready to help you with the planning

book your 2026 safari

Let’s help you plan the best wildebeest migration safari, and book you in the best camps for your best experiences of wildebeest sightings and crossings.

Other National Parks in East Africa

Other best Parks and Reserves in East Africa

Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy

Mara North Conservancy is a private and exclusive wildlife conservation area located in the northern region of Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem....

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Olare Motorogi Conservancy

Olare Motorogi Conservancy is a privately managed wildlife haven bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Covering approximately 35,000 acres, it is...

Ngorongoro Conservation Area - Ngorongoro Crater - Wildebeest Sightings

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. Located in...

Book a Wildebeest Safari for 2026

Get in touch with us directly and our experts will be ready to help you with the planning

Personal Information
Add Your Personal Information here for to be able to get in touch with you easily and in an efficient way.

Avoid The Pressure To Book Your 2026 Wildebeest Safari.

We have had so many people miss availability for their migration safaris in 2025. Contact us now to secure your spot for this amazing spectacle in 2026. 

Subscribe to the best Inspirations, Wildebeest Sightings, and Predictions Newsletters

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Get notified about new wildebeest sightings