- Seguku Katale. Kampala
5 days Lake Nakuru National Park
Known for its spectacular birdlife and abundant wildlife, Lake Nakuru National Park is a gem in Kenya’s renowned Rift Valley. This 5 Days Lake Nakuru National Park Safari offers a deep dive into one of Kenya’s most iconic wildlife sanctuaries, known for its large populations of flamingos, rhinos, and other Big Five animals. The park’s stunning landscapes, including the soda lake with its pink hues and the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley, make it a favorite for birdwatchers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
From guided game drives to scenic walks, this safari provides a well-rounded experience of Kenya’s natural beauty, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park
Your adventure begins with your arrival in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital city. Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide, who will give a brief overview of your 5-day safari itinerary. Afterward, you’ll set off on a scenic drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, located approximately 3 hours northwest of Nairobi.
The drive takes you through the picturesque Great Rift Valley, offering stunning views of escarpments, farmlands, and traditional Maasai villages along the way. Upon arrival at Lake Nakuru, you’ll check into your lodge, located inside or near the park, and enjoy a relaxing lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll embark on your first game drive, exploring the park’s diverse landscapes. The alkaline Lake Nakuru is home to thousands of flamingos, whose pink hues create a stunning spectacle against the blue water. The park is also a designated rhino sanctuary, so you’ll have a good chance of spotting white and black rhinos during your drive.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge
- Midrange: Flamingo Hill Camp, Mbweha Camp
- Budget: Punda Milias Camp, Lake Nakuru Lodge
Highlights:
- Scenic drive from Nairobi through the Great Rift Valley
- Afternoon game drive with sightings of flamingos and rhinos
- Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge near Lake Nakuru
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Lake Nakuru National Park
On day two, you’ll enjoy a full-day exploration of Lake Nakuru National Park. After breakfast, you’ll set off on a morning game drive, one of the best times to spot wildlife as the animals are most active during the cooler hours. As you drive through the park, you’ll witness the diversity of its wildlife, from herds of buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes to waterbucks grazing along the lake’s shores.
Lake Nakuru is a birder’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded, including pelicans, kingfishers, fish eagles, and the park’s famous flamingos. Your guide will help you identify the various bird species and offer insights into their behavior and habitat.
In the afternoon, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic viewpoints, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills. After lunch, you’ll continue your game drive, exploring other areas of the park, including Baboon Cliff, where you can observe troops of baboons and enjoy stunning views of the Rift Valley.
As the day draws to a close, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Highlights:
- Early morning game drive with opportunities to spot rhinos, giraffes, and buffaloes
- Birdwatching along the shores of Lake Nakuru
- Picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint
- Afternoon game drive with visits to Baboon Cliff
Day 3: Scenic Walk and Visit to Makalia Falls
Day three offers a change of pace, allowing you to explore Lake Nakuru National Park on foot. After breakfast, you’ll set off on a guided nature walk, where you can observe the smaller details of the park’s ecosystem that are often missed during game drives. Your guide will point out various plant species, insects, and birds, and you may even spot animals like impalas or bushbucks grazing nearby.
Following the walk, you’ll visit the Makalia Falls, located in the southern part of the park. The waterfall, though small, is a beautiful spot for photography and offers a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by lush vegetation. This area is also a good place to see various bird species and occasionally some wildlife coming to drink from the nearby streams.
After enjoying a picnic lunch by the falls, you’ll return to your lodge for a relaxing afternoon, with the option to take another short game drive in the late afternoon.
Highlights:
- Guided nature walk with opportunities for close-up wildlife and birdwatching
- Scenic visit to Makalia Falls
- Afternoon relaxation or optional game drive
- Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge
Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Visit to Menengai Crater
Day four begins with a final morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park, offering another chance to see the park’s iconic wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, which are occasionally spotted lounging in the acacia trees, and lions, which may be seen resting in the shade or patrolling their territory.
After the game drive, you’ll leave the park and visit the nearby Menengai Crater, one of the largest volcanic craters in the world. The crater offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is a great spot for hiking and photography. Your guide will share the history and geological significance of the crater as you explore the area.
Afterward, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. You can choose to relax at the lodge or take a short walk around the park’s boundaries, enjoying the peaceful environment.
Highlights:
- Morning game drive with chances to spot leopards, lions, and other wildlife
- Scenic visit to Menengai Crater for hiking and photography
- Relaxation at the lodge or optional walking safari
Day 5: Final Game Drive and Return to Nairobi
On the final day of your 5 Days Lake Nakuru National Park Safari, you’ll enjoy a final morning game drive, making the most of your last hours in the park. This is your last chance to spot any animals you may have missed on previous game drives, and your guide will help you track them.
After the game drive, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast before beginning the drive back to Nairobi. Along the way, you can stop for photos at some of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the Great Rift Valley.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, your guide will transfer you to your hotel or to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your unforgettable 5-day safari in Lake Nakuru National Park.
Highlights:
- Final morning game drive with last opportunities for wildlife sightings
- Scenic drive back to Nairobi with stops for photos
- Drop-off at Nairobi hotel or airport for departure
FAQs
When is the best time to visit Lake Nakuru National Park?
The best time to visit Lake Nakuru National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources, and the weather is ideal for game drives. The park can be visited year-round, with the wet season (March to May) offering lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
What should I pack for the safari?
For a safari in Lake Nakuru, pack light, breathable clothing for the warm days and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. Essentials include sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with extra batteries for wildlife photography. Binoculars are also useful for birdwatching. Don’t forget your safari essentials, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against insects during game drives and walks.
How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically last between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the time of day and your preferences. Morning and afternoon game drives are common, with breaks for lunch and relaxation in between. Full-day game drives with picnic lunches can also be arranged, allowing for more exploration of the park.
Is Lake Nakuru National Park family-friendly?
Yes, Lake Nakuru National Park is family-friendly and offers a range of activities suitable for all ages. The park’s shorter distances make it ideal for families with young children, and many lodges provide family-friendly accommodation. The variety of wildlife and the scenic landscape also make it a great destination for educational family trips.
Do I need a visa to visit Kenya?
Yes, most visitors need a visa to enter Kenya. You can apply for an e-visa online before your trip or obtain a visa upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. It’s recommended to check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
This 5 Days Lake Nakuru National Park Safari offers a perfect blend of wildlife experiences, birdwatching, and scenic exploration in one of Kenya’s most famous national parks. Whether you’re marveling at the pink-hued flamingos along the lake’s shores, spotting rhinos and lions on game drives, or enjoying a peaceful walk to Makalia Falls, this safari promises unforgettable encounters with Kenya’s natural beauty and wildlife. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a relaxing yet immersive safari experience, this tour offers memories that will last a lifetime.
