Things To Do
in Nakuru
Nakuru sits in the Kenyan Rift Valley just northwest of Nairobi, with coordinates around -0.3, 36.0667. The city is famed for Lake Nakuru and its wildlife, including seasonal flocks of flamingos and rhinos. A vibrant mix of agricultural markets, colonial-era history, and a budding urban scene makes it a convenient base for Rift Valley adventures.
Expect friendly people, approachable hospitality, and easy day trips to nature reserves, crater viewpoints, and historic sites.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day early with a guided safari through Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. As the sun rises, watch as the park comes alive with flocks of pink flamingos and other birds taking flight. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's famous rhinos and leopards as you traverse the scenic routes.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by nature's beauty. Spend the afternoon visiting the various lookout points, including the Baboon Cliff, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife and landscapes as you continue your adventure.
As the sun sets, return to your accommodation and relax with a refreshing drink on the terrace. Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local cuisine while sharing stories of the day's adventures with fellow travelers. End your evening by gazing at the stars in the clear African sky, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Start your day by visiting the Nakuru Town Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and sample fresh fruits and traditional snacks. Engage with local artisans selling handmade crafts and textiles, and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir. The lively atmosphere provides a perfect opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their daily lives.
After exploring the market, head to the Nakuru War Cemetery to pay respects to those who fought in World War I and II. Follow this with a visit to the Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site, where you can learn about the ancient human settlements that once thrived in the area. Enjoy a packed lunch while taking in the panoramic views of Lake Nakuru from the site.
Return to Nakuru Town and dine at a local restaurant, savoring dishes such as ugali and sukuma wiki. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town, absorbing the vibrant nightlife and perhaps catching a local performance. End your day with a visit to a nearby coffee shop to unwind with a cup of Kenyan coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🌯Street food snack | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close-to-nature experiences with wildlife and scenic landscapes
- Friendly locals and relative affordability
- Nightlife is more low-key than in larger cities
- Seasonal wildlife viewing can affect visibility and access
- "Habari" - Hello / Hi
- "Asante" - Thank you
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Jina langu ni..." - My name is...
- "Mambo vipi?" - How are you?
- "Nisamehe" - Excuse me / sorry
Places to Visit in Nakuru
Visit one of these nice places.
Edge viewpoints along the lake offer dramatic pink shoreline scenes when flamingos gather seasonally, especially at sunrise or sunset.
A dramatic caldera rim with sweeping views over the Rift Valley and Lake Nakuru; clear days yield expansive panoramas.
An archaeological site and museum set in serene surroundings, great for cultural and landscape photography.
A grand 19th-century estate with lush grounds and elegant architecture perfect for atmospheric portraits.
Food in Nakuru
Nakuru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled meat (beef or goat) served with sides like kachumbari; best enjoyed at local grill houses.
Must-Try!
Maize meal paired with sautéed kale; a staple comfort dish across households.
Freshly fried tilapia from nearby waters, typically served with ugali or fries.
Fragrant spiced rice paired with a fresh tomato-onion salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market district with produce stalls, snacks, and affordable bites.
A hub for quick bites like samosas, fried potatoes, and roasted maize from mobile vendors.
Small, family-run spots offering Kenyan staples at budget-friendly prices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and a smile; use Swahili greetings like Habari or Mambo to show courtesy.
Offer and receive items with the right hand to show respect.
Dress modestly in public spaces; swimwear is best kept for beaches or hotels with pools.
Always ask before photographing people; some communities prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Nakuru
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and for guides, 5-10% is typical if service charge isn’t included; small tips for hotel staff and drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; M-Pesa and other mobile money services are extremely common; many larger businesses accept cards at centralized locations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, warm days with cooler mornings; wildlife is active; carry sun protection and water; dusty conditions may affect optics and visibility.
Rains can be heavy at times; some roads may be slippery or muddy; plan for flexible outdoor plans and bring a rain jacket.
Variable showers; wildlife viewing remains good but expect intermittent showers; pack a light rain layer.
Nakuru at Night
Hiking in Nakuru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible crater rim hike with sweeping valley views; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Steep, rewarding trail to the crater rim; dramatic Rift Valley scenery and wildlife viewing.
Boat transfer to a predator-free island for a relaxed walking safari with zebras and antelope.
Forest trails with potential wildlife encounters and a cooler climate; good for a day hike from Nakuru.
Airports
How to reach Nakuru by plane.
Nairobi’s main international hub; about 150–180 km drive from Nakuru; frequent flights to regional and international destinations.
Northwest Kenya gateway for regional flights; roughly a few hours by road from Nakuru.
Small domestic airport on the outskirts of Nakuru for charter or light domestic flights.
Nairobi’s domestic airstrip for shorter flights; many travelers connect onward to NBO.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Kenya’s largest ethnic groups; numerous residents due to urban migration and commerce.
A Rift Valley group with multiple sub-communities; strong presence in the region.
Community present in Nakuru with diverse businesses and cultural contributions.
Includes international travelers and long-term residents contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and leagues are active; easy to catch a match in town.
Gaining popularity with local clubs and occasional tournaments; suitable for watching or joining an amateur session.
Kenyan athletics culture is strong; training routes and running groups are common in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakuru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: ugali, sukuma wiki, githeri (beans and corn), and vegetable stews; many restaurants can adapt dishes; Indian and other vegetarian-friendly places are common. Carry a light snack if you’re unsure about options in very small venues.