In this park lie the shimmering waters of Lake Nakuru, which is packed with pink flamingoes.
Lake Nakuru National Park is also the first rhino sanctuary in Kenya, and it was established right after the rhinos became an endangered species. The park hosts a large population of them.
Wildlife viewing
The park supports a wide ecological diversity, with flamingoes (greater and lesser) and other water birds being the major attractions of the area. The ecosystem provides for about 56 different species of mammals, including the white rhino and buffalo, and a variety of terrestrial birds numbering nearly 450 species.
Wildlife such as the rock hyrax, Colobus monkey, hippo, leopard, lion, black and white rhino, waterbuck, striped hyena, the golden cat, Thomson’s and Grant gazelle, and Rothschild’s giraffe live here. One of the unique facts about Lake Nakuru National Park is that it is compact and has a high game density. Therefore, it is simple to encounter wildlife during the safari trail; you are very likely to see a leopard, and lions are easy to come across.
Sports & nature
An ornithological paradise with over 450 bird species. The park, covering around 188sq km, lies on the floor of the Great Rift Valley in Nakuru District of the Rift Valley Province.
The fabulous pink flamingoes are over 1.5 million in number. In this park lie the shimmering waters of Lake Nakuru, which is packed with pink flamingoes. The flamingoes, both the greater and lesser, gather at the lake shores to extract blue-green algae for food, forming pink clouds from far, and are the main attraction in the park.
Wildlife viewing
The park supports a wide ecological diversity, with flamingoes (greater and lesser) and other water birds being the major attractions of the area. The ecosystem provides for about 56 different species of mammals, including the white rhino and buffalo, and a variety of terrestrial birds numbering nearly 450 species.
Wildlife such as the rock hyrax, Colobus monkey, hippo, leopard, lion, black and white rhino, waterbuck, striped hyena, the golden cat, Thomson’s and Grant gazelle, and Rothschild’s giraffe live here. One of the unique facts about Lake Nakuru National Park is, that it is compact and has a high game density. Therefore, it is simple to encounter wildlife during the safari trail; you are very likely to see a leopard, and lions are easy to come across.
Kenya’s first Rhino sanctuary
The park is surrounded by wooden and bushy grasslands, a splendor of a grey-green forest of Euphorbia Candelabrum, and offers sanctuary to some of the world's most endangered creatures, like the white and the black rhino. Kenya’s first rhino sanctuary was established in this park since the rhino became an endangered species. The park hosts a large population of them.
Nightlife
Nakuru town offers a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring popular clubs, bars, and lounges suitable for dancing and socializing, often with lively music and events. Key spots include Blaze Bar & Grill, Beyond Fridays, and Platinum 7D Sports Bar. The city serves as a central hub for entertainment with a mix of modern, upbeat venues.
Key Nightlife Spots and Activities
Blaze Bar & Grill: A prominent spot for drinks and socializing.
Beyond Fridays: Popular for its nightlife atmosphere.
Platinum 7D Sports Bar: Known for unique, engaging nights and a lively, energetic atmosphere.
Other Entertainment: Options include bar, club, and pub tours to explore the city's nightlife scene.
General Atmosphere
Vibrant & Diverse: The city has a lively, energetic scene that caters to those looking for a fun night out.
Convenient Locations: Many venues are situated within or near the town center (CBD).
Culture and history info
Nakuru, Kenya’s fourth city, is a cosmopolitan hub in the Rift Valley, founded in 1904 as a railway town and officially recognized as a city in 2021. Known as a "dusty place" in Maasai, it blends colonial history with diverse cultural, agricultural, and natural heritage, featuring landmarks like Hyrax Hill Museum, Menengai Crater, and Lake Nakuru National Park.
History of Nakuru
Origins: Originally a resting camp on the Uganda Railway, it was recognized as a township in 1904.
Colonial Era: Served as the headquarters of the Rift Valley Province and a central hub for white settlers in the "White Highlands".
Growth: Elevated to a municipality in 1952, it became a major agricultural and industrial center, growing rapidly after independence.
Landmarks: The area is rich in history, including Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site, which features archaeological artifacts, and Racecourse Estate, formerly a 1950s motor racing circuit.
Modern Day: In 2021, it officially attained city status.
Culture and Society
Cosmopolitan Nature: Nakuru is a melting pot of Kenyan communities, predominantly featuring the Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Luo, Luhya, and Maasai, along with a significant Asian-Indian population.
Arts & Crafts: Recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, it has a vibrant scene for beadwork, pottery, and sculpture.
Cultural Sites: The Nakuru Cultural Centre serves as a hub for traditional art, while the Menengai Crater holds significance in local folklore.
Languages: Swahili and English are widely used, along with various vernacular languages.
Key Attractions & Heritage
Lake Nakuru National Park: Famous for flamingos and being the first rhino sanctuary in Kenya.
Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site: An archaeological site offering insights into prehistoric life.
Menengai Crater: One of the world's largest caldera craters.
Colonial Architecture: Older, historical buildings like Canu House and Gwamba House remain in the town center.