Lake Nakuru National Park is situated in Nakuru County, Kenya, within the Great Rift Valley. The park’s geographical location is marked by the coordinates latitude 0°19′S and longitude 36°05′E, placing it near the equator. The altitude of the park varies from 1,750 meters (5,741 feet) to 2,075 meters (6,808 feet) above sea level, which significantly influences its climate and ecosystem.
Key Geographical Details:
- Altitude: The elevation ranges from 1,750 m to 2,075 m, creating a diverse landscape with varying vegetation and climatic conditions.
- Latitude and Longitude: Positioned at 0°19′S (latitude) and 36°05′E (longitude).
- Location Relative to Nairobi: The park is about 164 kilometers northwest of Nairobi, and a drive takes about 2 to 3 hours on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.
- Boundaries: Lake Nakuru National Park lies to the south of Nakuru town and is enclosed by fenced boundaries to prevent human-wildlife conflict and poaching activities. The western boundary is close to Menengai Crater, a prominent volcanic feature, while the park stretches towards the Mau Escarpment to the west.
Distances from Other Key Cities:
- Nairobi: 164 km (102 miles) to the southeast.
- Nakuru Town: Adjacent to the park, just a few kilometers from the main gates.
- Naivasha: 62 kilometers to the southeast, along the main highway.
- Eldoret: Approximately 156 kilometers northwest of the park.
- Kisumu: Around 180 kilometers to the west.
Climate and Location:
The park is located within the Rift Valley, characterized by a semi-arid climate with dry and wet seasons. The surrounding landscape is a combination of the alkaline Lake Nakuru, wooded grasslands, and rocky escarpments, with unique geographical formations contributing to the park’s stunning views.
Given its central location, Lake Nakuru National Park is a key stop for travelers exploring Kenya’s other major parks and reserves, like the Masai Mara (around 280 km to the southwest), Amboseli (over 350 km to the southeast), and Hell’s Gate National Park (about 80 km away).
This central position in Kenya makes Lake Nakuru not only a significant wildlife destination but also an accessible location for safaris and ecotourism, offering a variety of landscapes and easy access from multiple key Kenyan cities.