Things To Do
in Nakuru
Nakuru, Kenya is a vibrant city located in the Great Rift Valley region. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including Lake Nakuru National Park, which is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and diverse population.
Nakuru is also a hub for agriculture and commerce in the region, making it an important economic center.
- "Habari gani?" - How are you?
- "Asante sana" - Thank you very much
- "Karibu" - Welcome
- "Tafadhali" - Please
- "Sawa" - Okay
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start the day with an early visit to Lake Nakuru National Park to catch a glimpse of the stunning sunrise and wildlife. The morning is perfect for bird watching, especially the flamingos.
Enjoy a packed lunch in the park while taking in the breathtaking views. After lunch, explore the various picnic sites and continue your wildlife safari.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on the day’s adventures while enjoying a delicious Kenyan meal.
Visit the Kariandusi Museum to learn about early human history in Kenya. Engage with the local guides for deeper insights into the area’s archaeological significance.
Head to a nearby village for a cultural tour where you can experience traditional Maasai dances. Participate in craft-making sessions with local artisans.
Dine at a homestead and share stories with local families. Enjoy authentic dishes while being entertained by local music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, including Lake Nakuru National Park.
- Growing tourism industry, offering various attractions and activities.
- Vibrant local culture and friendly communities.
- Accessibility to Nairobi and other major cities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban centers.
- Limited access to high-quality healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions and public transport.
- Issues with water supply and sanitation in some areas.
- Economic opportunities may be limited in certain sectors.
- Potential for political instability and safety concerns during elections.
Best Activities in Nakuru
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a challenging hike amidst stunning landscapes and panoramic views of Nakuru and Lake Nakuru.
Embark on a thrilling wildlife safari to see the renowned flamingos, rhinos, and diverse bird species.
Experience a tranquil boat ride, bird watching, and the chance to spot hippos and other wildlife on the shores of Lake Naivasha.
Explore the park on two wheels, passing by dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and the stunning Fischer's Tower.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nakuru with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nakuru
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the lake and opportunities to see wildlife such as flamingos and rhinos.
Provides a panoramic view of Lake Nakuru and the surrounding landscape, ideal for photography.
Offers a breathtaking view of the Menengai Crater and the Rift Valley, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the region.
Food in Nakuru
Nakuru Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ugali, a maize-based staple, served with succulent grilled meat, Nyama Choma, is a popular and must-try dish in Nakuru. It is best enjoyed at local Nyama Choma joints like Kwa Jack or Mama Safi's.
Must-Try!
Chapati, a type of Indian-influenced flatbread, is widely consumed in Nakuru. Enjoy soft and fluffy Chapatis at the bustling Miti Mingi market or at street vendors in the city center.
Freshly caught fish from the nearby Lake Naivasha is a culinary delight. Head to Lake Naivasha's waterfront restaurants like Carnelly’s for a memorable dining experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nakuru better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Miti Mingi Market is a vibrant hub for fresh produce, spices, and street food. Here, you can sample an array of local snacks like samosas, mandazi, and roasted maize.
Explore the street food stalls in Gilgil area for an authentic taste of Nakuru's diverse street food scene. Indulge in flavorful skewered meats, grilled plantains, and aromatic pilau rice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nakuru, it is important to greet people with enthusiasm and respect. Handshakes are common, and it's customary to inquire about a person's well-being and their family.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Nakuru. It is important to address older individuals with proper titles and show deference in communication and interactions.
When visiting Nakuru, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Revealing clothing may be considered inappropriate, so it's best to opt for conservative attire.
Safety
Tipping in Nakuru
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Nakuru, Kenya. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If the service charge is not included, a tip of 10% is generally appreciated.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Nakuru, Kenya, although some establishments may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry local currency, Kenyan Shilling, for transactions. Mobile money services like M-Pesa are also widely used for payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Nakuru is during the dry season, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the best time for wildlife viewing, as the animals gather around water sources.
This is the beginning of the long rains season, so expect lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. However, wildlife viewing may be more challenging during this time.
This period is still within the dry season and is one of the best times to visit Nakuru for wildlife viewing. The weather is cooler, and the landscapes are still relatively green.
This is the short rains season, so expect occasional showers. The scenery is lush and green, making it a good time for birdwatching and the landscape photography.
Nakuru at Night
Hiking in Nakuru
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning landscapes, Lake Nakuru National Park offers a variety of hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, where you can see flamingos, rhinos, and other wildlife.
Menengai Crater is a massive volcanic caldera that provides several hiking paths with breathtaking views of the surrounding area and a unique geological landscape.
Located a short distance from Nakuru, Hell's Gate features hiking trails that wind through dramatic gorges, cliffs, and the park's geothermal features, making it a popular spot for both hiking and rock climbing.
Just a drive away from Nakuru, Mount Longonot is an extinct volcano offering a challenging hike to the summit with panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley.
Although a bit further from Nakuru, Kakamega Forest is a great destination for hiking, showcasing rich biodiversity and several trails suitable for nature walks.
Aiports
How to reach Nakuru by plane.
Located in Nairobi, approximately 160 km from Nakuru, it is the busiest airport in Kenya and serves as the main international gateway into the country.
Also located in Nairobi, about 160 km from Nakuru, Wilson Airport primarily handles domestic flights but also has some international flights, mainly to neighboring countries.
Located around 120 km from Nakuru, this airport serves both domestic and a limited number of international flights, particularly to regional destinations.
Approximately 200 km from Nakuru, this airport serves Kisumu and the surrounding region with domestic and regional international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Kalenjin are a Nilotic ethnic group predominantly found in the Rift Valley region, including Nakuru County. They are known for their rich cultural traditions and have a significant presence in athletics.
The Kikuyu are the largest ethnic group in Kenya and have a substantial population in Nakuru. They are known for their economic activities, especially in agriculture and trade.
The Luo ethnic group, primarily found around Lake Victoria, have migrated to Nakuru and are involved in various professions including business and education.
The Kisii people are recognized for their agricultural skills and have settled in Nakuru, contributing to the region's economy through farming and trade.
The Maasai are a semi-nomadic pastoralist community with a significant presence in Nakuru. Their rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle are notable.
Nakuru is also home to various other ethnic groups including Somalis, Indians, and various coastal communities, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Nakuru, with local clubs and a passionate fan base. The sport is played in various leagues and community settings.
Rugby has gained popularity in Nakuru, with several teams participating in regional and national competitions. The sport is well-supported and has a growing number of enthusiasts.
Basketball is increasingly popular among the youth in Nakuru, with local leagues and school competitions promoting the sport. It provides an avenue for talent development.
Nakuru's geographical location and climate make it conducive for distance running and athletics training. The region has produced several renowned athletes.
Volleyball is enjoyed both recreationally and competitively in Nakuru, with various clubs and schools participating in local tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakuru.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kenyan cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants in Nakuru offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like vegetable stews, bean-based curries, and salads.
In Nakuru, some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives such as grilled fish, rice-based dishes, and fresh fruit smoothies. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to the staff for suitable recommendations.