Lake Nakuru National Park, located in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to reach this scenic park, whether you’re traveling by car, public transport, or air.
1. Driving to Lake Nakuru National Park
Driving to the park is one of the most popular and convenient ways to get there. The park is about 160 km northwest of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, and the drive typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. The roads are well-maintained, and there are two major routes:
- Route 1: Nairobi to Nakuru via the A104 Highway This is the most direct route, starting from Nairobi and traveling along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway (A104). The road takes you through beautiful scenery, including viewpoints at the Great Rift Valley. From the Nakuru town, it’s only a short distance to the main gate of the park.
- Route 2: Scenic Route via Naivasha For travelers looking for a more scenic experience, you can opt for a route through Naivasha. You can explore the attractions around Naivasha (such as Hell’s Gate and Lake Naivasha) before continuing the journey to Nakuru. The drive adds a bit more time to your trip but offers scenic views of Lake Naivasha and the surrounding escarpments.
Self-Drive Tips:
- 4WD vehicles are recommended, especially during the rainy season when some of the internal roads within the park may become slippery or muddy.
- Make sure to carry some local currency (Kenyan Shillings) for toll stations or snacks along the way.
- GPS navigation can be useful, but road signs also provide clear directions to the park.
2. Public Transport to Lake Nakuru National Park
For budget travelers, public transport is an option to reach Nakuru town, but note that public vehicles do not enter the park, so you will need to arrange further transportation from the town to the park entrance.
- From Nairobi to Nakuru Town: You can take a Matatu (shared minibus taxi) or bus from Nairobi’s central bus station to Nakuru. Several reputable bus companies operate daily routes between Nairobi and Nakuru, such as Modern Coast, Easy Coach, and Mololine. The trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and costs between KES 300 to KES 500 depending on the service.
- From Nakuru Town to the Park: Once in Nakuru town, you can hire a taxi or private car to take you to the park’s main gate, which is about 4 km from the town center. You can negotiate the fare with the taxi drivers, with prices typically ranging between KES 500 to KES 1,500 depending on the vehicle and distance.
3. Flying to Lake Nakuru National Park
While there are no commercial flights directly to Lake Nakuru, you can charter a small plane to the Nakuru Airstrip, which is located near the park. Several companies, including AirKenya and Safarilink, offer charter flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi. The flight takes around 25 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Great Rift Valley.
After landing at Nakuru Airstrip, you’ll need to organize a transfer (usually through your hotel or tour operator) to get to the park.
4. Joining a Safari Tour
Another convenient way to visit Lake Nakuru is by joining an organized safari tour. Many tour operators based in Nairobi offer day trips or multi-day safaris to the park. These tours typically include transportation, park entry fees, and a professional guide.
- Day Trips: Ideal for those short on time, day trips depart from Nairobi early in the morning and return in the evening. The cost of a day tour can range from USD 100 to USD 200 per person depending on the inclusions (transport, meals, entry fees).
- Multi-Day Safaris: These tours combine visits to other nearby parks like Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate, or even Maasai Mara. You can expect a more relaxed pace, overnight accommodations, and additional wildlife viewing opportunities.
5. Park Entrance Gates
There are three main gates to access Lake Nakuru National Park:
- Main Gate: Located near Nakuru town, this is the most commonly used gate and is the most accessible for visitors arriving from Nairobi or Nakuru.
- Lanet Gate: Situated on the eastern side of the park, Lanet Gate is another popular access point.
- Nderit Gate: Primarily used by visitors coming from the southern part of the park or from Lake Naivasha.
Make sure to check the opening hours and entry fees before your visit, especially if you are driving yourself.
6. Best Time to Travel
- Dry Season (July to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. The roads are also easier to navigate during this period.
- Wet Season (March to June): While the park remains open, expect more challenging driving conditions. However, birdwatchers will enjoy seeing migratory birds during this time, and the landscapes are lush and green.
Conclusion
Whether you’re driving, flying, or taking public transport, getting to Lake Nakuru National Park is straightforward and rewarding. The park is an accessible and unforgettable destination for anyone looking to explore Kenya’s rich wildlife and natural beauty. Be sure to plan your transport options ahead and prepare for the adventure that awaits at this iconic park!