Destination: Lake Nakuru National Park
Departure Location: Nakuru City
Safari Vehicle Options: 4WD Safari Van, Safari Jeep, Land Cruiser
Pick-Up Time: 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM (Morning) or 12:00 PM (Afternoon Option)
Lake Nakuru National Park Day Trip Safari Overview
This 2026 Lake Nakuru Day Trip Safari is ideal for guests already in Nakuru City who want a focused wildlife experience without long-distance travel.
The safari begins with an early morning pick-up between 6:00 – 6:30 AM, ensuring entry into the park during peak wildlife activity hours.
Using a 4WD safari van, safari jeep, or Land Cruiser, you will enjoy guided game drives inside Lake Nakuru National Park before returning to Nakuru City the same day.
Two options are available:
- Full-Day Lake Nakuru Safari
- Half-Day Lake Nakuru Safari
This safari is perfect for travelers looking for a short Kenya safari experience, rhino sightings, and scenic landscapes in one day.
Option 1: Full-Day Lake Nakuru Safari (6:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
Full-Day Itinerary
Pick-up from your hotel or residence within Nakuru City between 6:00 – 6:30 AM, followed by a short drive to Lake Nakuru National Park.
Upon entry, begin a comprehensive game drive exploring:
- Lakeshore areas
- Woodland habitats
- Open plains
The park is well known for:
- Black and white rhinos
- Rothschild’s giraffes
- Buffaloes and waterbucks
- Zebras
- Flamingos and pelicans
- Lions often resting near acacia trees or lake areas
At midday, stop at a designated picnic site near Makalia Falls, where you can enjoy your packed lunch (own arrangements) while viewing the waterfall and surrounding forest.
Continue with an afternoon game drive covering additional sections of the park before exiting in the late afternoon.
Return to Nakuru City by approximately 6:00 PM.
Option 2: Half-Day Lake Nakuru Safari
(6:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM)
Half-Day Itinerary
Choose between:
- Morning Safari: Pick-up between 6:00 AM – 6:30 AM
- Afternoon Safari: Pick-up at 12:00 PM
After pick-up, proceed to Lake Nakuru National Park for an extended game drive focusing on prime wildlife areas.
Morning hours offer excellent chances of spotting:
- Rhinos
- Giraffes
- Lions
- Buffaloes
- Diverse birdlife
Exit the park late morning (12:00 PM) or evening (6:00 PM) depending on your selected option and return to Nakuru City.
Lake Nakuru National Park Day Trip 2026 Rates
(Per Vehicle Per Day – Non-Residents)
| Safari Vehicle | Max Capacity | Half-Day Trip | Full-Day Trip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep | 3 Pax | $120 | $136 |
| Tour Van | 7 Pax | $132 | $148 |
| Land Cruiser | 7 Pax | $172 | $200 |
Safari Includes
- Pick-up and drop-off within Nakuru City
- Transport in a 4WD safari van, safari jeep, or Land Cruiser
- Professional driver-guide
- Game drives inside Lake Nakuru National Park
- Picnic stop near Makalia Falls (Full-Day Option)
Safari Excludes
- Lake Nakuru National Park Entry Fees
Park Entry Fees (Per Person Per Day)
| Nationality | Adult | Child |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Residents | $90 | $45 |
| African Citizens | $50 | $25 |
| EA Citizens | Ksh 1,500 | Ksh 750 |
| Kenyan Citizens | Ksh 2,025 | Ksh 1,050 |
- Meals (Breakfast/Lunch)
- Accommodation
- Anything else not mentioned
Important Notes
- Rates are per vehicle per day
- Park entry fees are payable via the KWS eCitizen portal prior to arrival
- A buffet lunch can be arranged in advance at Lake Nakuru Lodge for $30 per person
- Multi-destination safaris including Lake Nakuru National Park are available upon request
- T&Cs Apply