Lake Nakuru National Park Day Trip and Lake Naivasha Boat Ride
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This day trip to Lake Nakuru National Park stands out for its perfect blend of scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and convenience from Nairobi. It offers a rare opportunity to experience Kenya’s natural beauty in just one day, without the need for an overnight stay. The drive through the Great Rift Valley showcases breathtaking views, while Lake Nakuru’s shimmering waters attract flocks of flamingos and pelicans, creating a photographer’s paradise. Beyond its birdlife, the park is one of Kenya’s best places to see both white and black rhinos up close, along with lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. The visit to Baboon Cliff provides unmatched panoramic views, and a stop at Makalia Falls adds a refreshing touch of nature and serenity. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a rich safari experience packed with wildlife, scenic beauty, and adventure — all in one unforgettable day. Lake Naivasha also has different types of birds and water animals.
Available options
Lake Nakuru with entry fees
Lake Nakuru National Park: In this option, an entry fee is provided in the booking price. An entry fee is included. <br/>Pickup included
Lake Nakuru without entry fee
year round: Get to the pink lake<br/>Pickup included
Lake Nakuru Private Tour
Private Tour: In this tour, once you book no one else will be included in the tour. The park fees are not in the price of the tour. <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned Tour Van
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Lunch break (Own expense)
Local taxes
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
This Lake Nakuru day trip offers an unforgettable blend of scenic beauty, wildlife diversity, and adventure — all within a single day from Nairobi. The journey through the Great Rift Valley sets the tone with breathtaking views and photo stops before entering one of Kenya’s most iconic national parks. Lake Nakuru is famous for its pink-hued flamingos, but it’s also a sanctuary for endangered white and black rhinos, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. The park’s compact size allows for excellent wildlife viewing, with chances to spot lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and zebras against the backdrop of the shimmering lake. A visit to Baboon Cliff rewards travelers with panoramic views, while Makalia Falls offers a tranquil spot for relaxation and photos. Later visit Lake Naivasha, participate in a boat ride, watch various birds as they hover around the water surface. There also various wildlife found on the water banks and you can visit Cresent island for a few minutes.
What's not included
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Lake Nakuru Admission fee
Available to purchase (own expence)
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
10 reviews
5★
9
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
• Dress code is smart casual
About Nairobi
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is a vibrant city known for its rich wildlife, cultural diversity, and modern urban landscape. It's the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, offering a unique blend of city life and nature.
Top Attractions
Nairobi National Park
This unique national park is located just a few kilometers from the city center and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos.
Nature
Half day to full day
KES 400-1000
Karen Blixen Museum
This museum is dedicated to the Danish author Karen Blixen, who lived in Kenya during the early 20th century. The museum is set in her former home and offers a glimpse into colonial life in Kenya.
Historical
2-3 hours
KES 500-1000
Bomas of Kenya
Bomas of Kenya is a cultural center that showcases the traditional music, dance, and acrobatics of Kenya's various ethnic groups. The center also features a museum and craft shops.
Cultural
2-3 hours
KES 500-1500
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nyama Choma
Grilled meat, typically goat or beef, seasoned with salt and sometimes spices. It's a popular dish often served with ugali and kachumbari.
Main Course
Contains meat
Ugali
A staple food made from maize flour, cooked with water to form a thick, dough-like consistency. It's often served with stews or nyama choma.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, Vegan
Sukuma Wiki
Collard greens cooked with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes other vegetables. It's a common side dish in Kenyan cuisine.
Side Dish
Vegetarian, Vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Safari
Wildlife viewing
Coffee tasting
Spas
Picnics
Museum visits
Cultural performances
Best Time to Visit
June to October
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. The city is lively with various festivals and events.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Swahili
- Widely spoken: English, Swahili
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Time Zone
GMT+3
Electricity
240VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Nairobi is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Nairobi Railway Station
By bus
Nairobi Bus Station, Mombasa Road Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The NCBS is the main public transport system, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
CBD (Central Business District)
Westlands
Karen
Day trips
Lake Naivasha
90 km from Nairobi • Full day
Lake Naivasha is a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by scenic landscapes and wildlife. It's a popular spot for boat rides, birdwatching, and visiting the nearby Hell's Gate National Park.
Mount Longonot
80 km from Nairobi • Full day
Mount Longonot is an extinct volcano with a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and the crater lake.
Lake Nakuru National Park
160 km from Nairobi • Full day
Lake Nakuru National Park is known for its large population of flamingos and other wildlife, including rhinos, lions, and leopards. The park offers game drives and walking safaris.
Festivals
Nairobi International Trade Fair • July
Nairobi Film Festival • October
Kenyatta Day • June 1
Pro tips
- Visit the Nairobi National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife viewing
- Try local dishes like nyama choma, ugali, and sukuma wiki for an authentic culinary experience
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or Bolt for safer and more convenient transportation
- Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid single-use plastics to minimize your environmental impact
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
