Overview
Offered by LakeNakuru.org · UNESCO Wetland & Rhino Sanctuary · Big 4 Safari + Scenic Rift Valley Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park is one of Kenya’s most iconic safari destinations — world-renowned for its rhino conservation success, vast populations of flamingos, and its status as a UNESCO-listed birdwatcher’s paradise with over 450 bird species. Located just 2.5 hours from Nairobi, it is among the best full-day safari tours you can do without an overnight stay.
For travelers short on time — or those wanting a guaranteed chance to see rhinos (both black and white rhinos) plus big cats, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and pelicans — a Lake Nakuru Day Trip from Nairobi is one of the top-ranked safaris in East Africa.
Why Choose Lake Nakuru for a Day Trip
- Closest place from Nairobi to see both black & white rhinos
- Seasonal flamingo spectacle along the Rift Valley alkaline lake
- UNESCO-listed Bird Area with 450+ bird species
- Big 4 safari experience — lions, leopards (sometimes), rhinos, buffalo (no elephants here)
- Beautiful scenic terrain — lakeshore grasslands, acacia woodlands, escarpment viewpoints
- Ideal for families, photographers & first-time safari travelers
- Full safari experience without needing to go all the way to Masai Mara
Tour Highlights
- Convenient round-trip transport from Nairobi – hassle-free and time-efficient.
- Scenic Great Rift Valley stop – capture stunning panoramic views.
- Thrilling game drive – spot rhinos, lions, leopards, and giraffes.
- World-famous flamingos – photograph thousands of these vibrant birds along the lake’s shores.
- Makalia Falls visit – a stunning hidden gem within the park.
- Expert wildlife guide – insights and tracking assistance throughout the trip.
Sample Itinerary — Lake Nakuru Day Trip from Nairobi
6:00–6:30 AM — Pickup from Nairobi hotel or airport (JKIA or Wilson)
Scenic drive via Great Rift Valley Viewpoint — sunrise photo opportunity
9:00 AM — Arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park
Entry via Main Gate or Lanet Gate (depending on location & traffic)
9:15 AM – 12:30 PM — Morning Game Drive
- Rhino Sanctuary area — guaranteed sighting zone
- Lake shores — flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons
- Lion & hyena territories — chance of predator action
- Baboon Cliffs Viewpoint — top panoramic lookout in the park
12:45 PM – 1:45 PM — Lunch (guest pays directly)
Options: Sarova Lion Hill Lodge, Naivasha en-route, or picnic by the lake
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM — Final Game Drive (Loop through woodland & wetland habitats)
Look for leopards (often seen on fever trees), waterbucks, giraffes, eland, antelopes, and diverse birdlife
4:15 PM – 4:30 PM — Exit park & depart for Nairobi
7:00 PM — Drop-off at hotel or airport
Best Time to Visit
✅ Year-round — game viewing is consistent
✅ Dry season (Jun–Oct & Jan–Feb) offers clearest wildlife visibility
✅ Best flamingo months vary — based on lake water alkalinity
✅ Depart Nairobi early to enjoy cooler game viewing hours Optional tips / personal expenses
Pickup outside Nairobi (extra fee may apply)
Safari Vehicle & Pricing
Toyota Noah Minivan (Private Standard) — Same Pricing as Nairobi City Tour
| Guests | Price Per Person | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | $80 | $80 |
| 2 pax | $70 pp | $140 |
| 3 pax | $60 pp | $180 |
| 4 pax | $50 pp | $200 |
| 5 pax | $40 pp | $200 |
| 6 pax | $35 pp | $210 |
Safari Land Cruiser — Premium Upgrade
| Guests | Price Per Person | Total |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | $180 | $180 |
| 2 pax | $120 pp | $240 |
| 3 pax | $110 pp | $330 |
| 4 pax | $100 pp | $400 |
| 5 pax | $90 pp | $450 |
| 6 pax | $85 pp | $510 |
What’s Included
✅ Private vehicle (Toyota Noah or Land Cruiser)
✅ Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide
✅ Hotel/airport pickup & drop-off in Nairobi
✅ Bottled drinking water
✅ Safari game drives inside Lake Nakuru National Park
What’s Not Included
❌ Lake Nakuru National Park entry fees (paid separately via eCitizen)
❌ Lunch / snacks
❌ Optional tips / personal expenses
❌ Pickup outside Nairobi (extra fee may apply)
How to Book
Send us a quick message with:
• Number of guests
• Preferred date
• Pickup location (hotel or airport)
• Vehicle type preference (Noah or Land Cruiser)
📧 Email: bookings@lakenakuru.org