Things to Do in Lake Nakuru: Game Drives, Baboon Cliff, Birding and Rhino Watching

The park is compact, and a good road network lets you see a lot in a few hours. That leaves time to enjoy the viewpoints and birds at a slower pace.

Here are the main activities and ideas for spending a day or an overnight stay.

This guide is part of our Uganda park trails and activities guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Game Drives

Loop roads around the lake pass grassland, woodland and swamp edges, and drives can be adjusted to your interests, such as rhinos, giraffes or birds. Morning is generally best for activity and light. See game drives explained.

Baboon Cliff and Other Viewpoints

Baboon Cliff gives a sweeping view over the lake and the shoreline, with a chance to spot flamingos and pelicans, depending on conditions. Out of Africa and Lion Hill offer other vistas. Early morning light is ideal. Keep food away from baboons, which can be opportunistic.

Birdwatching

Shorebirds, pelicans, storks and kingfishers feed along the shore, and woodland species include hornbills and barbets. Bring binoculars and ask your guide to stop at productive spots. See the birding guide.

Rhino Watching

Search open grassland for white rhinos and quieter woodland for black rhinos. Patience and a good guide help. Learn about their protection in black rhino conservation.

Makalia Falls and Picnic Sites

Makalia Falls is a pleasant stop in the south of the park, with a forested setting and picnic area. Picnic sites let you stretch your legs in designated areas, subject to ranger advice.

Beyond the Park

Combine Nakuru with Lake Naivasha boat rides and cycling or walking in Hell's Gate. See Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate, the Lake Nakuru National Park guide and safari photography tips for planning.

Sample Plans for Half a Day, a Day and an Overnight Stay

With half a day, drive the main loop, stop at Baboon Cliff and aim for rhinos on the grassland. With a full day, add the southern woodland, Makalia Falls and a picnic, and spend longer scanning the shoreline for birds. With an overnight stay, you can do an afternoon drive, enjoy the golden light at a viewpoint and return for a sunrise drive when animals are most active. Each plan works well alongside a stop at Naivasha. Check the best time to visit Lake Nakuru and how to get there to finalise your timetable.

Responsible Viewing and Safety

Keep to the tracks, stay inside or beside your vehicle except at designated stops and give rhinos and buffalo plenty of space. Baboons may approach vehicles and picnic sites looking for food, so never feed them and keep windows and bags secured. Take binoculars rather than approaching animals, and follow ranger instructions at viewpoints. Responsible habits protect both visitors and wildlife. See responsible and conservation travel.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team