Lake Nakuru National Park surrounds a shallow soda lake in Kenya’s Rift Valley, historically famous for the vast pink flocks of flamingo that once lined its shores, drawn by the algae that thrive in its alkaline water. Flamingo numbers fluctuate with water levels, but the lake and its surrounding grassland remain rich in birdlife throughout the year.

The park was established as a rhino sanctuary and today protects a significant population of both black and white rhino within a fenced perimeter, alongside lion, leopard and Rothschild’s giraffe. Wooded slopes rising from the lake’s edge, along with a scenic waterfall, add variety to a landscape centred on the lake itself.

Lake Nakuru is reached by road from Nairobi and nearby towns, making it a popular addition to a wider Rift Valley itinerary alongside Lake Naivasha or Hell’s Gate. Its compact size and rhino population make it a strong choice for travellers with limited time.