Lion Hill is one of the most active predator zones within Lake Nakuru National Park, located in the eastern-central section of the park, just a short drive from Main Gate, making it one of the earliest big cat viewing points accessible immediately after entry. It is one of the must-visit spots in our day trips to the Park.
This gently elevated ridge sits between the Rhino Sanctuary plains to the east and the Fever Tree (yellow acacia) forests toward the lake shore, forming a natural transition zone where lions frequently hunt and rest. Its mixed terrain — open woodland, scattered rocky outcrops, and forest edges — creates ideal ambush conditions, making it one of the most reliable areas in the park to spot lions, especially during the early morning and late afternoon hunting periods.
It is also one of the few zones in Lake Nakuru where leopards are regularly seen, often draped on low-lying fever tree branches or moving discreetly along the wooded slopes toward Lake Nakuru’s edge. Because Lion Hill lies close to high-traffic wildlife corridors, it is a strategic stop on
It is a must-visit game drive zone for visitors targeting Big Cat photography, predator–prey interactions, and classic African safari landscapes.
Why Lion Hill is Famous
✅ One of the most reliable lion-viewing areas in Lake Nakuru
✅ Open bushland + light forest = perfect hunting terrain for predators
✅ Occasional leopard sightings — often draped on low fever tree branches
✅ Excellent area for golden-hour safari photography
✅ Elevation provides better vantage points for spotting wildlife below
Unlike Baboon Cliffs (a scenic viewpoint), Lion Hill is a true game-viewing circuit, focused on close-range wildlife interactions.
Location & Landscape
- Situated northeast of the lake, slightly inland from the water’s edge
- Gently rising hills and open woodland, ideal for predator ambush behavior
- Surrounded by acacia and fever tree forests, a known leopard habitat
- Views stretch toward the Rhino Sanctuary plains on one side and Lake Nakuru on the other
Wildlife Commonly Seen Around Lion Hill
| Animal | Likelihood | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lions | Very high | Resting under shade or scanning from elevation |
| Leopards | Possible | Often seen on low fever trees |
| Buffalo | High | Large herds graze along Lion Hill slopes |
| Zebra & Impala | High | Core prey species |
| Waterbuck & Eland | Moderate | At forest edges |
| Hyenas & Jackals | Occasional | Early mornings & late evenings |
| Birds of Prey | Excellent | Eagles & vultures circle above the hill |
Best Time to Visit Lion Hill
| Time | Wildlife Activity |
|---|---|
| Early Morning (6:30–9:00 AM) | Lions & leopards actively hunting |
| Late Afternoon (3:30–6:00 PM) | Golden light + high predator movement |
| Mid-Day | Lions may be sleeping in shade — possible but less active |
Ideal Safari Route Placement
Lion Hill is best experienced as part of a predator-focused circuit:
Rhino Sanctuary → Fever Tree Forest → Lion Hill → (Optional afternoon extension to Baboon Cliffs)
This makes it the perfect mid-morning or late-afternoon inclusion on a Lake Nakuru day tour.
Photography Tips
- Telephoto 200–400mm lens: ideal for tight predator shots
- Stay on the edges — let predators come to you (never approach aggressively)
- Late afternoon light = golden tones on lion manes
- Silhouettes possible if facing toward the lake during sunset
Safety & Park Etiquette
- Stay inside your vehicle at all times — lions may look relaxed but remain wild predators
- No loud talking or engine revving — respect the wildlife’s comfort distance
- Never attempt to follow or block animals — let your guide read the animal’s behavior
- Avoid feeding baboons or monkeys (they are also active in this general zone)
Summary — Why Lion Hill Is Unmissable
| Feature | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Best for | Lion & leopard sightings, predator photography |
| Landscape | Mixed bushland & forest — ideal hunting ecosystem |
| Ideal visit time | Early morning or golden-hour afternoon |
| Recommended for | Serious wildlife photographers & Big Cat enthusiasts |