One of the largest and buzziest cities in Kenya, Nakuru, is one of the up-and-coming destinations in the country. The city is the gateway to some of the most spectacular parks in the country, including Lake Nakuru National Park, but it’s quickly establishing as a travel destination in itself. From history-rich attractions to local arts and crafts and vibrant nightlife, the list of things to do in Nakuru is expanding. Whether you’re interested to see how the city has been modernized or are eager to explore its surroundings and have an adventure yourself off the beaten path, here are the top things to do in Nakuru, Kenya.
1. Spend a day in a wildlife haven at Lake Nakuru National Park
Nestled in the Great Rift Valley, Lake Nakuru National Park is home to a wildlife paradise, making it the ideal place for scenic drives, having a picnic, bird-watching, or even hiking. The park hosts about 450 water and terrestrial bird species, but by far the most spectacular are the flamingoes that turn the lake waters pink with their pastel feathers. Visitors can also spot hundreds of plant species, the Makalia Waterfall, as well as over 50 mammal species, including waterbuck, white rhinos, zebras, and monkeys. You can easily spend a day here, and it will be well worth it so take your time and don’t forget your camera.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Address: Kiambu, Kenya
Website: Lake Nakuru National Park
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 8am - 12pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 7 USD
Tip from tour guide
You can reach the serene Lake Nakuru National Park via a jeep and relax by the quiet and calming lake with a hilly backdrop. You'll also get a chance to witness the beautiful white birds around. Don't forget to pack your binoculars to observe the region's beauty in its full glory.
2. Take a walk down history lane at Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum
Less than 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) outside of Nakuru is Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site. The archaeological area is home to a museum and the remains of three ancient settlements. The oldest remains date back to as early as 3,000 years ago. Visitors can explore Hyrax Hill at their own pace, but for those interested in the historic facts too, getting a guide can make all the difference. Whether you’re a history buff or not, it’s quite interesting to see what the excavations in the area have uncovered and examine these ancient burial sites for yourself.
Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum
Address: Lake Nakuru, Nakuru, Kenya
Website: Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
3. Marvel at the architecture of Egerton Castle
Sitting only 8 miles (12.8 kilometers) outside of Nakuru, Lord Egerton Castle is a fortress-like house dating back to the late 1930s. The building was supposed to be a gift from Lord Egerton to his bride-to-be, but she rejected his proposal so the house was finished in 1954, almost 20 years later. The castle was built by Indian workers, and most of the materials used were imported, including the marble and tiles that came from England and Italy. Although women were banned from the property after the lord’s heartbreak, today the castle is open to tourists from all over the world.
Egerton Castle
Address: Nakuru, Kenya
Website: Egerton Castle
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
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4. Tour the workshop at KraftyArtZ
Situated on Old Nairobi Road, KraftyArtZ is an iconic art and crafts store in Nakuru. The shop showcases a wide variety of handmade gifts and a collection of crafts created by local artisans. Here, you can find anything from travel mugs and table mats to decorated trays, all great options for thoughtful gifts and souvenirs to take home. Visitors also get a chance to tour the workshop and see how these items are created from scratch, an activity that will be enjoyed by adults and children alike.
KraftyArtZ
Address: Along Old Nairobi Road, Behind Shiners Girls Secondary School, Nakuru, Kenya
Website: KraftyArtZ
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
5. Go on a shopping spree at Westside Mall
It wouldn’t be a proper vacation without a shopping session at the local mall. We recommend you check out Westside Mall located on Kenyatta Avenue in Nakuru’s Great Rift Valley. Open daily, the modern commercial property spreads on over 161,000 square feet (14,957.3 square meters), is home to over 50 shops, and has a large parking lot that can fit around 200 cars.
Westside Mall
Address: 20100, Kenyatta Avenue, West Road Junction, Nakuru, Kenya
Website: Westside Mall
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
6. Sip cocktails on a cozy evening at Sixtyfour Restaurant & Lounge
When it comes to entertainment and buzzing nightlife, Sixtyfour Restaurant & Lounge is the go-to place in Nakuru. Located on Kenyatta Avenue, the restaurant and lounge is renowned for its cozy and casual atmosphere, tasty cocktails, delicious food, and impeccable service. While on Fridays and over the weekend it can get crowded, it’s quite chill during the week. They have all kinds of parties throughout the week and several DJs mixing the hottest tunes of the moment. It’s undoubtedly a great place to hang out with friends or check out if you’re on vacation and are looking to have a good time.
Sixtyfour Restaurant & Lounge
Address: Kenyatta Ave, Nakuru, Kenya
Website: Sixtyfour Restaurant & Lounge
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Nakuru, an emerging destination in Kenya
The fourth-largest city in Kenya, Nakuru, is an up-and-coming travel destination. Not only is it the starting point to some extraordinary adventures like getting up-close-and-personal to wildlife in Lake Nakuru National Park, but it also has its fair share of history-rich attractions right there in the city. Make sure you check out our list of the top things to do in Nakuru, Kenya, before you start packing your bags.
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