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Lake Nakuru, a shallow alkaline body of water, lies on a paved road, making it an easy three-hour drive from Nairobi, 100 miles south. Flamingos, often more than 1 million, literally turn its shores pink, a world famous spectacle, while feeding on the abundant algae that thrives in the warm waters.

Large numbers of pelicans concentrate by the fresh-water streams that flow into the lake. More than 400 other species, including African fish eagles, white-winged black terns, stilts, avocets, ducks, and in the American winter, the migrant waders, reside on the lake and in the park, too.The national park surrounds the lake, offering wide ecological diversity, from lakeshore, woodland, and grassy plains to rocky escarpments and ridges.

GAME PARKS AND RESERVES

Lake Nakuru National Park

Recently enlarged to provide a sanctuary for the black rhinoceros, now it boasts one of the largest concentrations of rhinoceros in the country (both black rhino and white rhino). A number of Rothschild's giraffes, relocated for safety from western Kenya, live in the park. Here, waterbucks, zebras, and Cape buffalos are common.

Like the lions of Lake Manyara, Lake Nakuru National Park’s lions are often seen in the acacia trees. Leopards are sighted frequently, as well, this park being one of the places visitors have the best chance of glimpsing these elusive big cats. The bushlands offer elands, warthogs, impalas, mountain reedbucks, and dik diks, while rock hyraxes and klipspringers occupy the cliffs and escarpment.