Fun Places to Explore in Nakuru

View of Menengai Crater. It is one of the most visited tourism sites in Nakuru

Photo credit: JOSEPH OPENDA

Nakuru is a special city with a rich history. The Rift Valley capital is popularly known as a ‘Flamingo city,’ thanks to the flamingoes found at Lake Nakuru. Here are some interesting places around Nakuru City to visit this holiday season.

1.Lake Nakuru National Park:

This is a three in one National park. There is the magnificent Lake Nakuru, 4 of the big 5 animals, as well as a variety of birds. Charges for adults is Sh 872 and Sh250 for children. The park has been dubbed a bird watching paradise where bird watchers converge to watch the most exquisite bird species.


2.Menengai Crater:

Menengai Crater is one of Kenya's most intriguing destinations. It is located about 5 kilometers North of Nakuru City and can be accessed by driving through the posh Milimani Estate, to the north. You will have to part with at least Sh200 to be allowed to visit the crater.


3.Lake Elementaita

Never seen pelicans? Well they are found here in plenty. Located in a semi-arid area, Lake Elementaita occupies 18 square kilometers and boasts of wildlife such as zebras, antelopes, giraffes and jackals.

The lake is a popular Kenya safari destination among bird enthusiasts. Flamingoes are also found here in plenty. The hills surrounding Lake Elementaita and the acacia forest makes this area perfect for hikes, picnics and nature walks.


4.Hyrax Hill Museum:

The prehistorical site was named after hyraxes which are found in abundance, living in cracks within rocks found in this area. It is located about 4km from Nakuru City.

A pre-historic walk at Hyrax Hill Museum is a good way to spend your holiday.

Hyrax hill depicts the lifestyle of seasonal settlement by prehistoric people at least 3,000 years old.

A visitor can have a nature walk around numerous sites that capture the different time periods with the earlier findings dating back to the Neolithic period.

Other attractions within the site include: Picnic Site, Camping Site, Nature Trail, Picturesque view of Lake Nakuru and a Tortoise pit.