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Tours & tickets

Tours, safaris and day trips in Nakuru County

Track rhinos in Lake Nakuru National Park, cycle through Hell’s Gate, take a boat among the hippos of Lake Naivasha, hike the rim of Mount Longonot or combine Lake Nakuru with the Masai Mara. Every tour here is bookable online through Viator.

Lake Nakuru and Menengai

Lake Nakuru National Park is the county’s great wildlife reserve, a fenced rhino sanctuary around a soda lake right next to Nakuru city. Most visitors come on a day trip from Nairobi or a game drive from Nakuru or Naivasha, and Menengai Crater is just north of town.

Naivasha, Hell’s Gate and Longonot

The south of the county is a playground of lakes and volcanoes, about an hour from Nakuru and two from Nairobi. Cycle among zebras in Hell’s Gate, take a boat out to the hippos, walk with giraffes on Crescent Island or hike the rim of Mount Longonot.

Safaris and further afield

Lake Nakuru is often the first stop on a longer safari, on the way to the Masai Mara or north to Lakes Bogoria and Baringo. If you fly into Nairobi, the city’s own national park and giraffe centre make a good first day.

Booking tours in Nakuru County: what to know

Most visitors to Nakuru County come on a tour, because the national parks are best seen with a vehicle and a driver-guide. Tours either start in Nairobi, with a long day on the road, or locally in Nakuru or Naivasha, which gives you more time with the animals. Multi-day safaris often visit Lake Nakuru on the way to or from the Masai Mara.

Lake Nakuru National Park

A game drive is the only way to see the park, as walking is not allowed. Look for a tour with a pop-up roof vehicle and a small group. Read our one-day plan for the park.

Naivasha, Hell’s Gate and Longonot

These are active trips: cycling in Hell’s Gate, walking on Crescent Island and hiking Mount Longonot. Day tours from Nairobi include transport and often bikes and guides.

Park fees

Kenya Wildlife Service charges conservation fees for each park, paid electronically. Check whether they are included in the tour price.

Cancellation terms

Many tours on Viator offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, and some let you reserve now and pay later. Terms vary by tour, so read them before you book.

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Tours FAQ

Do I need a tour to visit Lake Nakuru National Park?

You need a vehicle, as walking is not allowed in the game areas. A tour or a hired driver-guide is the easiest way, and a guide will help you find rhinos and lions. You can also drive yourself in a 4×4.

Can I visit Lake Nakuru as a day trip from Nairobi?

Yes. It is about 3 to 3½ hours each way by road, so day trips start early and return in the evening, often with a stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint. Staying a night in the area gives you more time in the park.

Are park fees included in tours?

Many tours include Kenya Wildlife Service conservation fees, but not all. Check what is included on the booking page before you book.

Can I cycle in Hell’s Gate on my own?

Yes. Bikes can be rented at Elsa Gate and you can cycle the main track on your own, but you must take an official guide to walk through the gorge. Read cycling Hell’s Gate.

Can I cancel a tour if my plans change?

Many tours on Viator offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Terms vary by tour, so check them on the booking page.

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