Weather and Climate of Lake Nakuru National Park: Lake Nakuru National Park is in the Rift Valley Province of Kenya, about 2 kilometers from Nakuru town. The Park is internationally famous for its large population of waterfowl with over one million flamingos and hundreds of pelicans, cormorants, and ducks. It was first established as a bird sanctuary in 1961 and consisted of the Lake and its immediate shoreline with an area of approximately 42 square kilometers. The park is one of the magnificent birding and wildlife homes that anchorages a variety of bird species staying with other bird species. Lake Nakuru National Park is famously known for hosting a large number of flamingos and the rhino wildlife sanctuary and thus this is the park that you shouldn’t miss during the adventure safari tour in Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park has a mild climate and temperatures are consistent year-round. Daytime temperatures are pleasant in the mid to high twenties Celsius (mid-seventies to low eighties Fahrenheit), although it is much cooler at night. Warm clothing for early morning game drives is a necessity. The wettest months are April and May. The rest of the year is relatively dry with some rain throughout.
Dry Season–June to February
During the Dry season at Lake Nakuru National Park, the days are generally bright and sunny, but the heat is usually mild, making it quite comfortable. While rain is uncommon during this period, you might still encounter a surprise shower now and then. It is recommended to wear warm clothing on early morning game drives.
June, July, August, September, October, November and December
From June to December, the weather is generally sunny, though you might encounter a light rain from time to time. In the afternoons, the temperature can rise to about 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit), making it pleasantly warm. However, during the early morning and late evening, it tends to be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 11 degrees Celsius (52 degrees Fahrenheit). So, it’s a good idea to dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
January and February
January and February are typically the driest and warmest months of the year. During this time, temperatures can rise to around 25 degrees Celsius (77-degree Fahrenheit) or even higher. However, it’s important to note that mornings can feel quite chilly, with temperatures sometimes starting off as low as 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit).
Wet Season–March to May
There are many overcast, cloudy days in the Wet season, but it rarely rains all day. Temperatures in the afternoon are pleasant at around 25 degrees Celsius /77-degree Fahrenheit. Early mornings are a bit milder at 12 degrees Celsius /54 degrees Fahrenheit. April is the wettest month.
March
In March and early April, Lake Nakuru National Park starts to welcome the rainy season, though March itself usually doesn’t see much rainfall. During this time, you can expect the afternoons to be pleasantly warm, with temperatures climbing to about 25 degrees Celsius or 77-degree Fahrenheit.
April
In April, Lake Nakuru National Park experiences its wettest period of the year. Although it is known for significant rainfall, the showers usually don’t last all day. Instead, you can expect brief bursts of rain that can quickly give way to clearer skies. This means that even though it’s the peak of the rainy season, visitors can still enjoy plenty of dry moments to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. The fresh smells and vibrant greenery that follow the rain create a beautiful atmosphere, making April a unique time to visit.
May
In May, the rainy season starts to wind down, but you can still expect some afternoon showers to pop up now and then.
Amazing things to do at Lake Nakuru National Park
Game viewing
Lake Nakuru National Park is not just a haven for birds; it’s also home to a variety of remarkable animals that you won’t want to overlook during your visit. Lake Nakuru National Park has featured the big 4 animals out of the big 5 animals of Africa in addition to other animal species such as the water, land mammals, and a few reptiles mainly the python. A highlight of the park is its sanctuary for rhinos, where you can observe both black and white rhinos, two rare and majestic creatures.
Game viewing in the are done either in a game drive safari or a guided nature walk. during your game-viewing safaris, you’ll have the unique chance to see these magnificent animals up close. The park is fenced, which helps keep the animals within a smaller area, making it easier for visitors to spot them. Besides the rhinos, other animals you might see include zebras, zebras, waterbucks, baboons, and pythons among other different mammals.
Bird watching
Lake Nakuru National Park is home to over 450 species of birds that are famous for the flamingo birds and this becomes so interesting and makes it so wonderful especially for bird lovers. During your birdwatching tours, you’ll have the chance to spot different colorful bird species such as Abyssinian Canary, Red-throated Pipit, Yellow-throated Longclaw, Cape Wagtail, Northern Grey-headed Sparrow, Eastern Paradise Whydah, Crimson-rumped Waxbill, Red-billed Firefinch, Green-backed Honeybird, Green Wood-hoopoe, Common Hoopoe, Hornbills, Owls, African Fish Eagle, Mountain Buzzard, Pelican, Eagles, Secretary-bird, Osprey, Greater Kestrel, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Rufous-crowned Roller, White-throated Bee-eater, Olive Bee-eater among others
Hiking to Makalia Falls
Hiking to Makalia Falls is a rewarding experience that invites visitors into the beauty of Lake Nakuru National Park. While the trek to the falls can be challenging, it offers a great workout and a chance to connect with nature. Nestled in the northern part of the park along the Makalia River, these falls are truly a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
As you make your way to the falls, you’ll be treated to stunning views and refreshing breezes created by the cascading water plunging down about 10 meters. The sight and sound of the water can be invigorating and peaceful at the same time. Visitors can also have a picnic at the waterfalls for the best enjoyment of the hike and to have the experience of the adventure.
Photography
Lake Nakuru National Park is a fantastic place for taking amazing photos, making it a popular choice for both professional photographers and casual visitors. The park’s stunning landscapes and unique wildlife present countless opportunities for capturing special moments. Please come and enjoy the beauty of Lake Nakuru National Park by capturing wonderful moments with your Camera.
