Essential Destination: Nakuru

Described as the most fabulous ornithological site on earth, flocks of more than 300,000 birds can be seen at one time, making the edge of the lake look frosted with pink.

With a total area of 368 sq. km, home for more than 450 different kinds of birds, Lake Nakuru is one of the finest ornithological sights in the world, famous haunt of thousand of flamingos which feed on the algae in the 40 cm deep lake.

This beautiful shallow alkaline lake, just south of Nakuru town, is surrounded by acacia woodland and rich savannah.

A superb example of conservation at work in the wild, it is now, with the assistance of the World Wildlife Foundation, providing sanctuary for Rothschild Giraffe, Black and White Rhino and Leopard who live in perfect harmony in this aquatic landscape.

The edge of the lake is frequently a crimson ribbon of Greater and Lesser Flamingoes, while pelicans and other water birds swim and fish in majestic flotilla formation.

The park is known for lions, hyenas, and leopards as the main carnivores.

Day Trip Itinerary

0700 Hrs

An early morning drive out of Nairobi and down the escarpment into the Great Rift Valley.

The 2-hour drive passes through highland farms of the Kikuyu people, before descending into the dramatic landscape of the Rift.

0900 Hrs

Drive past the extinct volcano – Mt. Longonot – to arrive in the Nakuru National Park – an ornithologist’s paradise, the home to a variety of plains game, larger herds of buffalo, rhino and a variety of predators.

The day is spent on a game drive, with lunch at a lodge located within the park and a chance to relax and enjoy the views over the lake, looking for rhinos and lions.

1630 Hrs

We return to Nairobi before sunset.