They call it the Pink Lake, and for good reason, when the flamingos gather here, the water turns a shade of pink you have to see to believe. But Lake Nakuru is more than just flamingos; it's rhinos, zebras, and the magical experience of walking among wildlife on Crescent Island.
Descending the Rift Valley
The drive from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru took us through landscapes that felt timeless baobabs standing like ancient sentinels, red dirt roads dusting the air, and the Great Rift Valley stretching out before us. Our guide told us how the valley was formed millions of years ago, and how it's become one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
When we finally arrived at the lake, I could barely believe my eyes, thousands of flamingos lined the shore, their pink feathers creating a carpet of color against the blue water and green trees. It was quiet except for the sound of the birds and the gentle lapping of the water against the shore.
Tracking Rhinos in Nakuru
Lake Nakuru is one of the best places in Kenya to see both black and white rhinos, and we were lucky, within an hour of entering the park, we spotted a white rhino grazing peacefully under an acacia tree. Our guide turned off the engine and we sat there, watching, as it ate, completely oblivious to our presence.
Later that day, we climbed Baboon Cliff for a panoramic view of the entire park. Below us, zebras grazed, waterbucks walked slowly through the grass, and in the distance, we could see the lake shimmering in the sun. It was one of those moments where you just want to stop time and take it all in.
Crescent Island and Lake Naivasha
The next day, we headed to Lake Naivasha. We took a boat safari and saw hippos and a huge variety of birds, fish eagles, herons, cormorants, and more. Then we went to Crescent Island, a private game sanctuary where you can walk among wildlife with no fences.
Walking with zebras grazing just a few feet away, giraffes towering above us, and waterbucks watching us cautiously, there's no safari experience quite like it. Our guide told us about the different animals and their habits, and we learned so much more by seeing them up close, on foot.
Farewell to the Pink Lake
On our way back to Nairobi, we stopped one last time at a viewpoint overlooking the Rift Valley. The sun was setting, painting the sky orange and pink and purple, and I thought about everything we'd seen, the flamingos, the rhinos, the magical walk on Crescent Island. Lake Nakuru and Naivasha had exceeded all my expectations, and I knew I'd be back one day.
Stacy Kinyanjui
Local photographer and conservation advocate. Stacy has spent over 5 years documenting Africa's wildlife and works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism.
Experience Lake Nakuru Yourself
Join us for a 2-day safari through the Pink Lake and Crescent Island.
View Lake Nakuru Safari
