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This blog post is about the Lake Nakuru National Park located in central Kenya. This African national park is considered a bird’s paradise that attacks a considerable amount of visitors each year.

The mere mention of Africa resonates with its exceptional wilderness and celebrated wildlife safaris. The wide grasslands and dotted acacia trees stretching towards an endless horizon can transport you to a captivating realm of wildlife. For its unparalleled biodiversity, Kenya’s renowned Masai Mara National Park tops the list of wildlife destinations.

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Kenya boasts an impressive array of natural treasures, comprising 24 national parks, 15 national reserves, 6 marine parks, and private conservancies. Furthermore, deciding which ones to visit can be quite daunting. Among the standout national parks are Nairobi National Park, Amboseli National Park, Samburu National Reserve, Aberdare National Park, Tsavo East National Park, Tsavo West National Park, and many more. Each holds its unique allure, contributing to Kenya’s status as a premier destination for unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Have you heard about Lake Nakuru National Park? Does it ring a bell immediately? I was completely unaware of this gem in the heart of Kenya. While the other famous national parks make it to the bucket list of wildlife enthusiasts, the birdwatchers should not miss the Lake Nakuru National Park. It is considered a haven for exotic birdlife in Kenya.

In 1957, the Lake Nakuru National Park was declared a wildlife conservation area covering an area of 42 square kilometers. Later in 1968, the park was declared as one of the National Parks of Kenya.

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As the bird paradise began drawing in visitors, the endangered Rothschild giraffes were purposefully reintroduced into Lake Nakuru National Park. In addition to that, this conservation effort has transformed them into one of the park’s prominent attractions, complementing the diverse array of other wildlife.

Notably, Lake Nakuru National Park proudly claims the largest population of rhinos in Kenya, encompassing both white and black rhinos. The park serves as home to one of the world’s most significant Rhino Sanctuaries, contributing to global efforts in rhinoceros conservation.

NAKURU NATIONAL PARK IN KENYA: WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT IT?

Nestled in the Rift Valley of Kenya, Nakuru National Park stands as one of the country’s most captivating wildlife destinations. This park is a picturesque haven, boasting breathtaking landscapes, expansive savannah grasslands, and the visually arresting Lake Nakuru.

Renowned as a bird-watching paradise, Nakuru is home to an estimated 450 bird species, with its most iconic residents being the vibrant colonies of flamingos that gracefully paint Lake Nakuru pink. These migratory birds choose Lake Nakuru as their sanctuary, creating a mesmerizing spectacle during the summer months in Kenya.

Encircling an impressive expanse of approximately 188 square kilometers (73 square miles), Lake Nakuru National Park, though smaller compared to some other prominent national parks in Kenya. It unfolds a rich tapestry of captivating landscapes and diverse habitats.

Within the bounds of Nakuru National Park thrive over 400 species of birds, including notable residents such as the African Fish Eagle, Slender-billed greenbul, Long-tailed widowbird, Rufous-throated Wryneck, Montane white-eye, Red-capped lark, Northern puff back, Rüppell’s robin-chat, Shining Sunbird, and more. This avian abundance transforms the park into a haven for bird enthusiasts.

Also, the Lake Nakuru National Park shelters various wildlife, including the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, buffalos, waterbucks, lions, impalas, and more. Notably, the park’s significance is underscored by its UNESCO World Heritage site status, adding a layer of prestige to its conservation efforts and natural splendor.

LAKE NAKURU

Lake Nakuru is a fresh Saltwater Lake that attracts a wide diversity of birds. Located in the heart of the Rift Valley of Kenya, the blue water lake is encircled by the jaw-dropping dense forest and lush green surroundings making it one of the most picturesque locations in Kenya. The enchanting freshwater lake is captivating to the eyes.

Lake’s nutrient-rich waters support a thriving population of Flamingos which come in great numbers during the dry season. Moreover, the synchronized movements of these graceful birds create a spectacular display, making Lake Nakuru a must-see destination for nature lovers. Hence it is a testament to the captivating wonders of the natural world.

The lake Nakuru is also called Pink Lake. Home for lesser and the greater Flamingos painting it pink, the first glimpse of the lake from far away was breathtaking. I was in complete awe when I saw thousands of pink Flamingos beyond the horizon. There are two types of Flamingos on Lake Nakuru. They are called lesser and the greater Flamingo.

The majority presence of lesser flamingos dominates the scenic beauty of the lake, characterized by an extended black shade all over their backs. In contrast, the greater flamingos at Lake Nakuru showcase a black streak solely at the tip of their beaks. This dynamic interplay of colors and birdlife creates a visual spectacle that truly defines the allure of the Pink Lake.

Additionally, the lesser flamingos boast a richer, darker pink hue on their feathers, occasionally adorned with black spots on their wing feathers. In contrast, the greater flamingos exhibit a more subdued shade of pink, with feathers of a consistent and similar coloration.

With an average depth of merely 1 foot (0.3m), Lake Nakuru proves to be an optimal environment for the flourishing of algae, a fundamental food source for the expansive flocks of flamingos.

Moreover, the alkaline nature of the lake establishes ideal conditions for the proliferation of this algae, drawing thousands of these iconic birds and orchestrating a breathtaking pink spectacle.

Furthermore, the sunset by Lake Nakuru was one of the enchanting vistas that will make you fall in love with the African landscape. The serenity of nature, rustiness, pleasant weather, and the soothing sounds of water make it worth watching the sun going down the valley.

WHERE IS NAKURU NATIONAL PARK?

Situated in central Kenya, Lake Nakuru National Park lies within the renowned Rift Valley. The distance from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru spans 157 kilometers, and the journey can be completed with a 4-hour drive from the capital city. Its proximity to Nairobi ensures easy accessibility, offering travelers a remarkable wildlife experience. Nakuru National Park is an ideal destination for a day trip, allowing visitors to explore its wonders and return to the Kenyan capital city within a day.

BEST TIME TO VISIT NAKURU NATIONAL PARK?

The best part of Lake Nakuru National Park is that it is open throughout the year. It allows visitors to enjoy exotic wildlife in every season. But the best time to visit this national park is when the colonies of Flamingos paint the lake pink from July to December. The freshwater lake Nakuru is showing its full glory during these months.

WHERE TO STAY IN NAKURU NATIONAL PARK?

There are a good number of accommodations available, ranging from high-end safari lodges to mid-range hotels. However, I enjoyed my stay at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge.

Disclaimer :

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