Things To Do
in Nakuru

Nakuru, Kenya, is a vibrant city located in the Rift Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife. It serves as a gateway to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and diverse bird species. The city is rich in culture and offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Kenyan life.

Visitors can explore local markets, enjoy delicious cuisine, and engage with friendly locals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day early with a visit to Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy a guided safari to see flamingos, rhinos, and various wildlife.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nakuru Town Market for lunch and experience local food. Afterward, visit the Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site to learn about the region's ancient inhabitants.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local restaurant for a traditional Kenyan dinner, followed by a stroll around the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at Menengai Crater, where you can enjoy panoramic views and explore the unique geological features.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the local craft market to buy handmade souvenirs and gifts. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Visit the Lake Nakuru Lodge for a sunset dinner, enjoying the views of the lake and the surrounding wildlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-10
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-50
🚕Taxi ride within the city$3-5
🛍️Souvenirs and crafts$2-15
Coffee at a café$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich in wildlife and nature.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Traffic can be congested during peak hours.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to major cities.
  • Public transport may not be reliable.
  • "Habari" - Hello
  • "Asante" - Thank you
  • "Karibu" - Welcome
  • "Tafadhali" - Please
  • "Sijui" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Nakuru

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Nakuru

Famous for its pink flamingos and stunning sunsets, making it a perfect spot for wildlife photography.

Menengai Crater

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is ideal for landscape photography.

Hyrax Hill

An archaeological site with beautiful views and rich history, perfect for capturing unique shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nakuru

Nakuru offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich culture of Kenya. Must-try dishes include Nyama Choma (grilled meat), Ugali (maize porridge), and Sukuma Wiki (collard greens). Street food is abundant, with options like samosas and chapati available at local markets. For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are usually available, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly.

Nakuru Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nyama Choma

Grilled meat, often served with a side of ugali and kachumbari.

Must-Try!

Ugali

A staple food made from maize flour, served with various stews.

Sukuma Wiki

Sautéed collard greens, commonly served as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nakuru Town Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Street Vendors

Many vendors sell snacks like samosas, mandazi (fried dough), and grilled skewers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nakuru experiences a temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) in the cool season to 25°C (77°F) in the hot season. The region receives most of its rainfall from March to May and sporadically in November and December. The dry season is typically sunny and warm, while the wet season can bring heavy rains that transform the landscape into a lush paradise.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet people with a handshake and a smile; it is considered polite.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, to show respect.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders by using appropriate titles and addressing them formally.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Nakuru is generally safe for tourists, it's essential to take basic precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious when walking alone at night. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas and use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Nakuru

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, usually around 10-15% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, mobile payments via M-Pesa are popular and convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (June to October)

Expect sunny and dry weather, ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.

Wet Season (March to May)

Expect heavy rains; some roads may become impassable, but the scenery is lush and vibrant.

Cool Season (June to August)

Temperatures can drop at night; pack warm clothing for evening outings.

Hot Season (January to February)

Expect hot and dry weather; it's a good time for lake activities and exploring the park.

Nightlife Guide

Nakuru at Night

Nakuru's nightlife is lively, with a variety of bars and clubs offering entertainment. Popular spots include live music venues and dance clubs where you can enjoy local music and dance the night away. The atmosphere is generally friendly, and many places serve local beers and cocktails. Some venues also host themed nights and special events, making it a fun place to experience the local culture.

Hiking in Nakuru

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Menengai Crater

A volcanic crater offering hiking trails with stunning views and rich flora.

Mount Longonot

Located about 50 km from Nakuru, this hike offers a challenging trek with spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley.

Airports

How to reach Nakuru by plane.

Nakuru Airport

A small airport primarily serving domestic flights, located about 15 km from the city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nakuru is moderately walkable, with several areas in the town center easily accessible on foot. Sidewalks are present, but some streets may be crowded, especially during market days. It's advisable to be cautious of traffic and to avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kikuyu

One of the largest ethnic groups in the region, known for their agricultural practices and cultural contributions.

Maasai

An indigenous group recognized for their unique culture, traditional dress, and pastoral lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is very popular among locals, with many clubs and amateur teams.

Rugby

Rugby is also gaining popularity, with local teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nakuru can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include matatus (shared minibuses) and tuk-tuks, which are commonly used for short distances. It's advisable to plan travel times accordingly and to be patient with traffic conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakuru.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but always ask to ensure no meat is included.

Gluten-Free Options

Some places can accommodate gluten-free diets; however, it is best to inform the staff in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Nakuru include public and private hospitals, with a few facilities offering basic emergency care. However, for more complex medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to Nairobi. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Kenya

Read more in our Kenya 2025 Travel Guide.

Kenya Travel Guide